The working capacity of the oven. The amount of food that can be cooked in the device and the amount of space required for embedding depends on this parameter.
A capacity of about 50 – 60 litres is considered quite sufficient for a family of 2 – 3 people. It is the capacity that most modern built-in ovens have. However, there are other options — modest models of 20 – 30 litres, similar in capacity to microwave ovens,
large in capacity for home baking and large cabinets of 100 litres or more, designed more for cafes and restaurants than for home use.
Among the ovens features, one can single out the basic ones inherent in most devices (
gas control,
auto ignition,
thermostat, timer,
auto switch-off,
child lock), and top-level features that are relevant for devices of the highest category (
control via Internet,
built-in video camera,
TFT display). More about them:
— Gas control. Thermoelectric system designed to protect against gas leakage. If the flame is accidentally extinguished, the gas supply to the chamber is immediately stopped. The gas control usually includes a thermocouple (to determine the presence or absence of a flame) and a gas blocking device.
— Auto ignition. A system that provides automatic ignition of gas simultaneously with the start of its supply. The user does not need to use matches or a lighter, press a separate button, etc.: the gas ignites immediately when the handle is turned. Found only in models with appropriate heaters (see "Oven").
— Thermostat. A device that maintains a predetermined temperature in the oven.
— Timer. A device that provides a countdown time and allows you to control the cooking process precisely. After the set time has elapsed, the timer, usually, beep
...s, and in some models, it also turns off the heating. Timers can be either mechanical or electronic; the first one is simple and inexpensive, and the second one is more accurate and better combined with additional features (for example, auto switch-off).
— Auto switch-off. In this case, we are talking about a function that provides automatic shutdown of the oven according to the timer (see below); the timer itself does not imply auto-off, so if such an ability is important, you should choose a model where it is directly stated. Also, auto switch-off can be provided as a protective system that prevents overheating — such automation turns off the oven if no commands have been received from the user for a long time or when the temperature rises critically.
— Control via Internet. The specific control method may be different: some models use an application that needs to be installed on a smartphone or tablet, while others use a regular web page that can be opened in any browser. These details should be specified separately. Anyway, this function allows you to access control from anywhere in the world where there is access to the World Wide Web. For example, in the morning you can load food for a dish into the oven, and when you leave work, launch a cooking programme via the Internet, and get a ready-made hot dish by the time you return home. Also, note that such control usually allows not only to give commands but also to receive notifications from the oven. In particular, the device can report the progress of the programme, readiness, various problems, etc.
— Video camera. The presence of a built-in camera for more detailed control of the preparation of the dish. The user can visually control the cooking process without opening the oven door. Most often, the built-in camera transmits video via a wireless Wi-Fi connection. As a pairing device, you can use both a computer with a laptop and a tablet/smartphone. Of course, on a mobile/computer device, you will need to install proprietary software. The video camera is especially relevant in cases where the oven is used to prepare complicated meals. Regular control, without disturbing the temperature regime due to the opening of the door, minimizes the risk of food spoilage.
— TFT display. The oven has its TFT display. In this case, we mean a screen that does not consist of segments but pixels and is suitable for displaying various types of data: numbers, text, graphic symbols, pictures, etc. A wide variety of information can be displayed on the TFT display, which makes the operation of the oven more convenient. However, this variety is only relevant for advanced models with an abundance of functions, so the presence of such a screen is usually a sign of a premium oven.
— Child lock. In modern ovens, it can be done in different ways. So, in some models, you can block the oven door — so that a curious little child cannot open it during cooking and get burned. In other devices, a control panel lock is also provided — thanks to it, the baby will not be able to turn on/off the device or change the cooking mode. Child lock is unlocked in a non-obvious way accessible to an adult but not to a child — for example, by simultaneously pressing two buttons.In the case of ovens, the dimensions determine not only the sizes, but also the conditional form factor and the possibility of installing models. Dividing by height, the devices can be
compact(low) for installation in hanging cabinets and
full-sized — classic ovens for installation under the countertop. As for the width, in addition to
standard models of 60 cm, there are
narrow (45 cm) and
wide (90 cm) models to interact with similar wide hobs.
