What Features Do I Need in a Built-In Stove and Oven?
Are you on the hunt for a new built-in stove and oven? It’s great having all the options that we do nowadays, but it can prove tricky sifting through all the information to come to the best decision.
More than half of homeowners feel that upgrading their kitchen appliances adds the most value to their home. And, according to a study by Houzz, 52% of homeowners believe their kitchen is the most important room in the house, with appliances playing a starring role.
This guide will walk you through all the must-have features and help you understand the details before making this all-important kitchen upgrade. Ready to find the perfect built-in stove and oven?
Why Choose a Built-In Stove and Oven?
Before we get into specifics, it’s good to consider why a built-in stove and oven might suit you better than freestanding options.
There’s no doubt that built-in appliances offer a sleek, modern look that complements most kitchen designs. They save counter space and allow you to customise the placement to match your cooking style. Beyond aesthetics, many come with unique features often unavailable in traditional ovens, enhancing convenience and cooking performance.
What to Look for in a Built-In Oven
How to choose a good built-in oven? Here’s a quick look at some of the top features you’ll want in a high-quality oven:
Multi-Functionality: A versatile oven can handle a range of cooking techniques, from grilling to baking to defrosting. Look for an oven with multiple cooking modes to make all your recipes easy to tackle.
Self-Cleaning: This is a feature you won’t want to miss. Many built-in ovens offer pyrolytic cleaning, which heats the oven to a high temperature, turning residue into ash that can be easily wiped away. It’s a time-saver and a hand-saver.
Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient ovens use less power without compromising performance, which helps save on energy bills over time. Look for models rated A or higher for the best energy savings.
Smart Technology: If you’re into tech, consider an oven with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to control and monitor your cooking from your phone—great for multitaskers!
What Features Should an Oven Have?
Thinking through the features an oven should have is a great way to narrow down your choices. Consider functions like fast preheating, convection cooking, and accurate temperature control, which can make cooking quicker and more precise. Don’t forget interior lighting, which can help you monitor dishes without opening the oven door.
Other handy features? A delayed start timer and a child lock, especially if you have kids, help ensure safety and convenience.
Understanding Stove Basics: What to Consider
Now that we’ve covered ovens, what about the stove? What do I need to know before buying a stove? First, consider the type of fuel you’ll use: electric, gas, or induction. Each has unique benefits: gas stoves offer quick, adjustable heat, while induction provides fast, safe cooking and is known for efficiency. Electric is a reliable all-rounder. (Except during load-shedding, but that’s a whole different story!)
When choosing a stove, the number of burners, heat output, and type of controls (knob, touch, etc.) can also make a difference in your overall cooking experience. You’ll want to choose based on your cooking style, budget, and kitchen space.
Built-In Beko Magic
Beko offers some fantastic built-in ovens, each packed with features designed to make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are two models worth exploring:
Beko Built-In Oven 60 cm 72 L (BBIE12300X): This compact 60 cm oven comes with Beko’s signature fan-assisted cooking technology, making it perfect for even heat distribution. It has an impressive 72-litre capacity, ideal for family dinners or special occasions. You’ll also appreciate the easy-clean enamel interior, which saves time on cleaning up.
Beko Built-In Oven 90 cm Double 75 L (BBDF26300X): Need more cooking space? This double oven is a perfect solution, with a 75-litre capacity in the main oven and additional room for multi-dish cooking. Features include fan-assisted cooking and multiple functions for versatile baking and roasting. The double oven setup is perfect for big family meals or holiday cooking marathons.
Beko Built-In Hob Gas 75 cm (HIAW 75226 SXE): For those who prefer gas cooking, this 75 cm built-in hob brings precision and power to the kitchen. With five burners, including a high-powered wok burner, it provides flexibility for all cooking styles. The durable cast-iron pan supports and sleek stainless-steel finish make it a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking for both performance and a modern look.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Built-In Appliances
No decision is without its downsides, and it’s essential to consider what the disadvantages of built-in stoves might be.
On the one hand, integrated appliances require a permanent installation, meaning they’re harder to replace or move if you remodel your kitchen. They can also be pricier upfront and may require professional installation.
However, many homeowners find the sleek appearance and convenience outweigh these factors. Plus, of course, those added features which may not be available in freestanding ovens.
What Is the Difference Between a Cheap and Expensive Oven?
If you’re wondering what the difference is between a cheap and expensive oven, the answer often lies in:
Build quality
Features
Performance
Higher-end ovens tend to offer better insulation, which helps maintain even temperatures and reduces cooking time. Expensive ovens often include advanced features like convection cooking, smart controls, and multi-layered glass doors for safety.
In contrast, budget ovens might skip out on these perks, offering basic functionality but less flexibility for avid home cooks. Deciding between them depends on your budget, cooking style, and how often you’ll use the oven.
Final Tips for Choosing the Perfect Built-In Stove and Oven
When it comes to finding the right built-in stove and oven, it’s all about balancing your needs, preferences, and budget. A built-in model can transform your kitchen, offering sleek aesthetics and a fantastic cooking experience. By considering factors like multi-functionality, energy efficiency, and the best type of stove for your cooking style, you’re already well on your way to making the best choice.
Making the Right Choice for Your Kitchen
Choosing the ideal built-in stove and oven is not as tricky as you may have first thought. With the information at your fingertips, it can be a lot of fun.
From the time-saving self-cleaning function to the reliability of convection cooking, there’s a range of features to consider for an appliance that fits your lifestyle. As mentioned at the start, upgrading your kitchen is one of the best ways to add value to your home. So, whether you’re cooking for one or hosting family dinners, investing in the right built-in oven or stove can make all the difference.
Isn’t it time to make your kitchen work for you?
