7 quick tips to choosing the right oven and cooktop

  

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You have decided that with your kitchen appliances it's a case of out with the old and in with the new. Or perhaps you're starting from scratch with a whole new kitchen renovation or build. Whatever the reason behind your decision to purchase new appliances, there are a few points to be aware of before handing over your cold hard cash. We have already given you a basic guide of what to consider when buying kitchen appliances, but here are a few more tips that relate specifically to ovens and cooktops.

• Gas or electric? Australians have traditionally preferred electric ovens and cooktops, but there are pros and cons to using both fuels. Gas which is a moist heat is often considered better for cooking roasts etc, while electric is usually regarded as better for baking. With cooktops, gas allows you greater control over the heat, while electric offers a variety of options which are ideal for cooking at very low temperatures. There is also the option of an induction cooktop which uses a magnetic field to instantly heat up a pan and is just as controllable as gas. Likewise a combination cooktop can also provide both gas and electric elements, for example, a gas wok burner with electric hotplates.
• Steam away! Another option is to include a steam oven, or combination steam oven to your appliance stack. We have spoken much about the benefits of steam cooking, these include healthier and convienent cooking methods.

• Freestanding or in-built? Another important consideration is whether you prefer a freestanding or in-built oven. A freestanding oven can take up less space, however you will likely need to bend down to use it. Whereas an in-built oven can be placed at a suitable height either in a wall or under a bench. They are often more sleek-looking and modern in appearance, although if you're after a larger oven then a freestanding may be a better option.
• Size matters! Think carefully about what purpose your oven will serve. If you have a big family or intend to cook lots of meals regularly then a large oven up to 90cm may be preferable. Standard ovens are 60cm with compact ovens usually 45cm. Capacity-wise though some of the 60cm ovens on the current market offer a greater capacity. With a cooktop, think about the burner configuration and what suits you. How many pots and pans do you juggle at once? Burners set out in a diagonal pattern allow more space than a traditional square.
• Features & accessories: As with any new product, it is important to make a list of the features which are important to you and your cooking needs. In addition to size, think about how the oven door opens and the size of the window. Other features include self-cleaning (pyrolytic), cooking programs, quick preheat functions, timers, manual/touch controls, and fan forced baking. Accessories such as shelves, trays, rails and telescopic runners are a few other factors to think about.
• Energy efficiency: As with any appliance purchase, the use and size of it will affect your gas/and or electricity bills. If you are a single person or small family, consider buying appliances that will help save on energy costs.  
• Utilise showrooms: Most companies (including E&S Trading) have showrooms which display many models of cooktops and ovens from a wide range of brands. It is important to see how these models are displayed in a mock kitchen environment to gain an idea as to how they might look in your own home. Take the opportunity to open the oven doors, pull out the shelves, play with the features, and ask the salesperson questions. If you have a favourite baking dish or frying pan bring it along and see how it will fit with the new appliance.

If you are still unsure on where to begin, visit an E&S Trading showroom or phone 1300 548 243. Browse and shop our range of ovens and cooktops online.

Related articles: Buying Kitchen Appliances - What You Need To Know! | How to Choose the Right Rangehood for Your Kitchen