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By Sharyn Kidd | Kitchen and Bathroom Designer | Kingscliff NSW
Are you planning a kitchen renovation in Northern NSW or the Gold Coast, Qld?
Let’s talk ovens!
As a local kitchen designer, I often help clients navigate the sometimes-overwhelming task of selecting appliances, especially ovens. With so many features, models and confusing terminology, it can be hard to know where to start.
The first and most important question is;
What are my essential cooking needs?
Once you know what particular functions you must have, you can consider whether they are worth the extra spend.
I’ve outlined below some functions which are available over and above the standard options as well as some cleaning functions and a couple of items available that I’m loving right now.
But first, common oven types explained …
Conventional oven - your standard, no-fuss oven. Most models have at least 5 basic functions; a light, defrosting mode, grilling mode, fan-grilling mode and fan-forced baking. Some may also include a timer and an ‘intensive bake’ function which combines multiple heat sources for more even cooking.
Convection oven - technically, this just means an oven that circulates hot air. Most convection ovens on the market are bench top and/or ‘combo’ models often with an air fryer or microwave function.
Steam oven or combi steam oven - these ovens combine steam (moist heat) with standard cooking modes (dry heat) to enhance flavours and preserve nutrients. They draw water from a tank and infuse it during cooking. A great option for healthier meals.
Some popular oven features to consider …
Air-fry function - requires a special tray which allows for circulation around all sides of the food eliminating the need for flipping. It combines the fan with top and rear heating elements at high temperatures.
Pizza or pastry baking function - uses a bottom heating element combined with the fan to provide crisp bases and golden tops. Perfect for pizza, pastries or quiches.
Dough-proofing function - often found in steam ovens, this function provides low, moist heat ideal for rising bread or pizza dough.
⭐️ Pro tip ⭐️: check your ovens user manual - there may be hidden features you didn’t know existed.
Oven cleaning functions explained …
Pyrolytic cleaning - heats the oven to extremely high temperatures to burn off food residue into ash (just wipe clean afterwards). Be sure to remove trays and wipe big spills before starting - ask me how I know!!
Hydrolytic or steam cleaning - uses low heat and water to loosen grime for easy wipe-downs. You don’t need a steam oven to access this. Brands like Smeg offer this as a ‘Vapour Clean’ function.
Oven things I’m loving right now …
Smart ovens with built-in cameras, app control, voice prompts and cable-less food probes. They are a splurge but the tech is catching on here in Australia.
Neffs ‘Slide and Hide’ door - the door opens then disappears into the oven body. Perfect for tight kitchens or users with limited mobility.
As part of my kitchen design service, I help you select appliances that suit your cooking style, budget and the overall layout of your new kitchen.
Thinking of undertaking a kitchen renovation in Kingscliff, Northern NSW or the Gold Coast, Qld? Whether you’re exploring a kitchen update in a coastal-style, a modern bathroom layout or a customised laundry, I am here to help you every step of the way from layout and design, to choosing the perfect oven.
Let’s chat about your renovation goals!
Contact me here for a free discovery call.
If you'd like to learn more about kitchen design, you can read 'Designing A Kitchen To Your Ideals' here.
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