The oven shapes a new kitchen more than most appliances: it defines the cabinet, the electrical installation and even the working height. It is also one of the purchases people most often choose by eye. This guide helps you decide: which types exist, which functions you will actually use and what to plan for during the works.
Start with the space and the cabinet
Before looking at models, decide where the oven goes. There are two usual solutions:
- In a tall unit: at a comfortable height, with no bending. It is the most ergonomic option and the most common in current kitchens.
- Under the worktop: less height needed, but you have to bend down and you lose drawer space.
Most built-in ovens are around 60 cm wide and high (the Teka HLB 8550 SC, for example, is 595 × 595 mm), but depth and the way the recess is ventilated vary by model. Always check the manufacturer’s data sheet and fitting dimensions before ordering the cabinet.
Three types of oven
Conventional
Top and bottom heat, and little else. It is simple and enough if you cook little or just reheat dishes. It is the most affordable option.
Multifunction
Adds modes such as fan-forced heat, grill, bottom heat or defrost. You can bake on several levels at once and spread the heat better. For most households it is the sweet spot.
Steam
It includes a steam generator. It lets you cook with steam, reheat yesterday’s dishes without drying them out and get juicier bread and roasts. It usually also includes cleaning and descaling functions. If you cook at home often, it is the most noticeable step up in quality.
Functions you will actually use
Catalogues boast twelve or more functions, but only a few are used day to day. Look at these:
- Fan-forced heat, for even results on several trays.
- Grill and top and bottom heat, for gratins and roasts.
- Rapid heating, which cuts the wait when preheating.
- Programmable start and end of cooking, useful if you get home late.
- Steam, if your way of cooking makes use of it.
Cleaning: what you will appreciate most
Cleaning the oven is the chore nobody likes. Some systems make it easier: enamels that repel dirt, steam-assisted cleaning cycles that soften residue, or automatic programmes. Compare what each model includes and how much upkeep it needs.
Safety and comfort
- Multi-glazed door, so the outside does not get too hot.
- Soft-close door.
- Safety cut-off when the door is opened.
- Pull-out runners, so you can take out a tray without burning yourself.
- Trays and rack with an anti-tilt system.
Entry-level, mid-range or premium
In an oven, the range shows mainly in three things: the number of functions and cooking modes, the quality of materials and controls (from simple knobs to a touch display), and the cleaning and steam systems.
- Entry-level: the essentials done well, ideal for a second home or a tight budget.
- Mid-range: the balance of features and price for everyday use.
- Premium: more functions, steam, automatic cleaning and better finishes, for those who cook a lot.
In our shop you will find the ovens organised by range. For example, the Teka SteamGourmet HLB 8550 SC is a premium steam oven with 12 functions, SteamClean PRO cleaning and 70 litres.
What to plan for during the works
The oven is chosen before the kitchen is closed off, not after. These decisions need to be made when the cabinets are designed and the installations are planned:
- Exact fitting dimensions, and a cabinet that can carry the weight (a steam oven can exceed 30 kg).
- Power socket and available power: large and steam ovens use more.
- Ventilation of the recess, as the manufacturer specifies.
- The height you want the oven at and its distance from the hob and walkways.
- Where hot trays will rest when you take them out: a surface nearby helps.
If you are renovating the kitchen, it is easiest to decide everything together. We explain how it is organised in kitchen renovations and, if you are unsure about the layout, in open-plan kitchen.
Quick checklist before you decide
- Is it going in a tall unit or under the worktop, and what are the fitting dimensions of the recess?
- Do I cook enough to make use of steam or multifunction?
- What cleaning system does it include and how much upkeep does it need?
- Do I have the power and the socket it needs?
- Which range fits my use and my budget?
Would you like help choosing and fitting it into your kitchen? Request a quote and we will advise you with no obligation.
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