Choosing the right wall oven for your kitchen is not an easy decision. From size to cooking functions, there are a lot of factors that you have to consider.
Whether you’re a keen home chef or someone who enjoys baking on the weekends, a well-chosen wall oven can improve your cooking adventures.
So, read on if you want to find out what are the most important things you should have in mind when buying a wall oven!
Consider Your Cooking Style
The first thing you should do is to think about your cooking habits and preferences. Understanding your culinary style is the first step towards finding the ideal oven for your kitchen.
Ask yourself questions like:
- How often do you bake or roast dishes?
- Do you frequently host large gatherings and need extra cooking space?
- Are you interested in advanced cooking techniques like convection cooking?
Being aware of your cooking style and needs will guide you towards the right oven choice.
Single vs. Double Wall Ovens
Another crucial decision is whether to opt for a single or double-wall oven. Usually, they have the same standardised widths and depths. The difference is in the height, which on a double wall oven can be 50 inches or more.
A single-wall oven is ideal for small families and single households and provides ample cooking space for daily meals and occasional gatherings. Its capacity depends on the size of the unit you buy, which usually varies between 24, 27, and 30 inches.
A double-wall oven offers the convenience of two separate ovens. It is the perfect choice for you if you often prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, have a large family or love hosting large dinner parties.
If you prefer, one of the ovens could be a convection oven and the other a standard oven.
Available Space in Your Kitchen
It’s crucial to think about the space you have in your kitchen before you start shopping for a wall oven. Accuracy is paramount, as wall ovens come in various sizes, so measure carefully the space where it will be installed.
Measure the height and width of the available space to ensure a proper fit. Take into account the position of the rest of your kitchen appliances and ensure you will be able to open the door of the oven completely.
Installation
Wall oven installation involves more than just the oven itself.
You should consider factors such as:
- Electrical or gas connections – ensure your kitchen has the appropriate electrical or gas connections for the type of wall oven you choose.
- Ventilation – proper ventilation is crucial to prevent overheating and maintain a comfortable cooking environment.
- Cabinetry modifications – depending on your choice, you might need to modify your kitchen cabinets to accommodate the wall oven’s size and style.
Fuel Type: Gas vs. Electric
Wall ovens are mainly electric, although gas models are also available. Nevertheless, electric ovens have more features and are more difficult to operate.
Electric wall ovens offer advantages such as:
- Even heat distribution: Electric ovens excel at maintaining even heat distribution, which makes them perfect for baking delicate items.
- Precise temperature settings: You can trust electric ovens to maintain the precise temperature you need.
A drawback is the slower preheating time as well as a potentially drier cooking environment.
Gas wall ovens’ set of benefits includes:
- Precise temperature control: Gas ovens respond quickly to temperature adjustments, giving you precise control over your cooking.
- Moist cooking: Gas ovens maintain a moist cooking environment, ideal for roasting and baking.
However, they may have drawbacks, including uneven heat distribution and safety concerns due to open flames.
Features and Functions
Different makes and models of wall ovens offer a variety of features you can choose from. So think about that before you buy your new oven and decide whether you want a basic model or one with all the features.
1.  Convection Cooking
Convection ovens circulate hot air, ensuring even temperature and cooking. Ovens with such functions make the cooking process shorter and are excellent for roasting, baking and multitasking.
However, they are more expensive, so consider whether you want a wall oven with convection cooking if you haven’t had any issues using a standard oven.
2.  Self-Cleaning Options
Many wall ovens come with self-cleaning features. Apart from manual oven cleaning, where you have to spend time scrubbing, traditional self-cleaning ovens use high temperatures to burn off the debris from the oven surface.
If you don’t cook very often, the self-cleaning function will probably not be worth it. However, it can save you time and effort, so you have to decide which type of oven cleaning suits your preferences.
3.  Smart Technology Integration
Smart kitchens are here, and wall ovens are no exception. Some models have already incorporated technology and offer smart features like remote control, recipe integration, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
If you are a fan of technology, you will for sure enjoy an oven with such options.
4.  Oven Capacity
Consider the oven’s capacity in relation to your cooking needs. Factors like how large your family is and the types of meals you frequently prepare will help you determine the appropriate oven size for your needs.
5.  Research Different Brands
Not all wall oven brands are created equal. Spend time researching different brands and choose a reputable one known for its quality and reliability. Check customer reviews and ratings on the Internet – they can be valuable sources of information and help you when you have to make your decision.
6.  Reliability and Longevity
A wall oven is a long-term investment in your kitchen, so reliability should be a main priority. Check the warranty which different models offer and consider the available services in your area.
However, try to maintain your oven in good condition, as regular oven cleaning and proper care can extend its life.
7.  Budget and Long-term Value
While it’s essential to stay within your financial limits, also consider the long-term value. Estimate how energy-efficient your chosen wall oven is, as well as how the oven’s features and functions can contribute to the overall value of your investment in the long term.
Conclusion
The choice of the perfect wall oven for your kitchen is not that easy. It requires thorough consideration, but following the tips in this guide and assessing your unique cooking needs can help you find the right oven for you.
After all, no matter if you are a person who bakes from time to time or a passionate home chef, the perfect wall oven can not only make cooking more enjoyable but also turn out a long-term investment.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
