Should you ever rip out your AGA or Rayburn? It’s a question that’s been simmering in kitchens across the country for decades – and one that rarely comes with a straightforward answer.

On one hand, these cast-iron range cookers have achieved near-iconic status in British design. The hallmark of a ‘proper’ country home, they make easy work of heating a kitchen while simultaneously slow-roasting Sunday lunches and giving everyone an excuse to hover with a cup of tea. But rising energy costs, changing cooking habits and the rise of flexible, switch-on appliances are prompting homeowners to take a harder look at that ever-glowing, always-on appliance.

Is an AGA an irreplaceable centrepiece worth adapting for modern living, or an expensive relic that no longer fits how we live and cook today? To find out, we asked kitchen designers and range cooker specialists whether ripping out an AGA or Rayburn is a savvy move or an expensive mistake.

Why are homeowners questioning their range cookers?

Rising energy costs have made permanently-on kitchen appliances harder to justify, particularly in homes that no longer rely on them for central heating. Exactly how much an AGA or Rayburn costs to run depends on the model and fuel type, but older oil-fired versions typically cost between £1,000 and £3,000 per year, depending on usage. Gas models tend to be slightly cheaper, while newer electric versions are generally more affordable, though they still vary according to tariff and usage.

Running costs alone don’t automatically make them impractical – in some homes they still provide valuable background heat. But they are prompting more homeowners to reassess whether the comfort and character justify the outlay.

That shift isn’t just theoretical. Marta Pawlik, co-founder and director of Laik.co.uk, which manages more than 50 luxury properties in the Lake District, has seen attitudes change in real time. “Two years ago, most of our property owners viewed their AGA as a selling point,” she says. “Now about a third of them have asked us about removal or replacement.”

While aesthetically these appliances remain appealing, practicalities can tell a different story. According to Marta, kitchens where an AGA is the only cooking option average 0.4 stars lower on facilities ratings across Laik’s portfolio – a small but significant difference in a review-led market. The issue, Marta notes, isn’t necessarily the range itself, but how it functions in a wider context. In large open-plan kitchens, it can feel generous and characterful. In small kitchens, however, it may dominate valuable prep area and limit flexibility.

Maintenance is another important consideration. Oil and gas models usually need an annual service, often costing a few hundred pounds. Over time, parts such as thermostats, elements, seals and fire bricks may also need replacing. AGAs are built to last – many run for decades – but they aren’t maintenance-free.

The argument for repair or conversion

“My advice is almost always: don’t rip an AGA out unless you absolutely must,” says Will Frankling, co-founder of Kitchen Makeovers. "AGAs are built like tanks and ripping them out is heavy, messy work that often requires structural repairs to the floor afterwards."

Instead, he suggests exploring less drastic options first. “If the issue is cosmetic – chips, an outdated colour or worn chrome – they can often be re-enamelled or refurbished,” he explains. “There are specialists who can even change the colour of your AGA on-site to complement a new kitchen scheme.”

For homeowners concerned about running costs, Franklin advises looking into electric conversion – particularly 13-amp models. “This allows you to control the heat more effectively and avoid burning fuel 24/7,” he says. “It keeps the heart of the home beating, without the massive gas or oil bill.”

Electric conversion typically costs between £3,000 and £6,000, depending on the model and the condition of the cooker. The process usually involves removing the existing oil or gas components, installing electric heating elements and upgrading controls for more precise temperature management. Most conversions can be completed in a few days by a specialist engineer, but you may also need a qualified electrician to check your home’s wiring and ensure your consumer unit can handle the additional load.

The case for replacing your range cooker

Modern range cookers – including newer electric AGAs and alternative brands – are designed with improved insulation and greater temperature precision in mind. Graham Duke, sales director at eco-friendly range cooker brand Everhot, explains:

“Traditional heat storage cookers are often seen as old-fashioned and expensive to run, but the latest generation offers control and versatility. Gone are the days of having a cooker chugging away in summer with owners opening doors and windows to cool the kitchen down. Temperatures can now be controlled independently.”

Beyond controls, newer models are also built with longevity in mind. “A modern, efficient heat-storage cooker will outlive most other kitchen appliances,” Graham says. With robust construction and fewer disposable components than many standard ovens, they’re often designed as long-term fixtures rather than short-cycle appliances.

Energy compatibility has also come a long way. Some newer models even feature Wi-Fi-enabled technology, allowing for precise temperature control whenever it is needed – whether that's for cooking or while you’re away for night. "They even integrate with flexible energy tariffs and can be scheduled to work in harmony with microgeneration, such as solar panels and home battery storage," adds Graham.

So, if you still love the idea of a range cooker as a focal point, upgrading to a newer generation model may offer the familiarity of a classic centrepiece with far greater control than older versions ever allowed.

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The argument for removing a range cooker

One of the clearest signs it might be time to part way with your range cooker is ongoing reliability issues. If your range is decades old and needs repeated callouts for faults – whether that’s failing elements, inconsistent temperatures or parts that are increasingly hard to source – repair costs can quickly add up. A one-off fix is one thing, but a pattern of breakdowns is another. If you find yourself spending significant money just to keep it running, it’s worth stepping back and asking whether that investment would be better directed towards a replacement oven.

There’s also the question of how much you actually use it. If you’ve stopped relying on your AGA and found yourself defaulting to the air fryer or a separate hob because it feels too slow or too difficult to control, that’s a sign it might be time to say goodbye. A range cooker should feel like a pleasure to use, rather than something you actively work around.

Major kitchen renovation projects can also tip the scales. If you’re already replacing your kitchen flooring, redesigning cabinetry or upgrading your heating system, it may be more practical to reassess the cooker at the same time rather than designing around it.

That said, ripping out a range cooker isn’t always straightforward. Traditional AGAs are heavy and often integrated into the structure of the kitchen, which can mean additional labour and repair work once they’re taken out. It’s worth factoring those costs into your plans from the outset.

So, should you rip out my AGA or Rayburn?

According to the experts, the answer is rarely black and white. If your range cooker is structurally sound and you love using it, repair or conversion could extend its life without sacrificing character. If you’re drawn to the look but frustrated by running costs, a newer generation electric model may offer greater control. But if it no longer suits your space, your lifestyle or your budget, removal can be a practical – if disruptive – reset.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to alignment. Does your range cooker support the way you cook and live now? Or are you holding onto it because you feel you should? An AGA or Rayburn can still be the heart of the home. But only if it’s working for you, not against you.

The choice between freestanding vs integrated appliances comes down to how visible you want your cooker to be and how you use the kitchen. A range cooker will naturally become a focal point, whereas a modern integrated oven – conventional or convection – might be a better fit for your space and everyday needs.

Induction hobs may be some of the sleekest appliances you can add to modern kitchens, but that smooth glass surface is also famously unforgiving. Every splash of sauce and misty fingerprint shows up instantly, which is why understanding how to clean an induction hob properly is essential if you want to keep your workspace gleaming.

The secret to getting it right is using the right tools and techniques. A gentle cleaner, a soft cloth and a few smart habits make all the difference between a hob that stays show-home polished and one that starts to look tired far too soon.

Below, we break down the expert-approved methods that keep an induction hob clean, protected and performing exactly as it should, without scratching the glass or fading the controls.

Why do induction hobs need specific care?

Because induction technology heats the pan rather than the glass, spills don’t burn away — they simply sit on the hob’s surface. That makes day-to-day cleaning easier, but it also means residue can linger and quickly dull their shine if it’s not wiped away. And unlike metal gas burners, the glass top of an induction hob is more vulnerable to scratches, etching and faded control markings, so it needs a gentler touch.

As Sarah Whitfield, product manager at Stoves, explains: “Not only is it nicer to cook in a tidy kitchen, but keeping your induction hob clean can even save on energy use, as burnt food prevents the pan heating as efficiently.”

It also seems most of us instinctively understand the value of keeping these surfaces pristine. A recent survey by Domestic & General revealed that 25% of people wipe their hob every single day, and that the hob ranks as one of the cleanest items in the home, with just 1% of people admitting to never cleaning theirs.

But even with good habits in place, the trick is knowing exactly how to clean an induction hob without scratching the glass or damaging the control markings – and choosing the right tools makes all the difference.

Tools and products you will need

You don’t need a cupboard full of specialist cleaning products to get this job done; just a few gentle, hob-friendly tools.

For everyday cleaning

• Microfibre cloths: ideal for wiping, drying and buffing without leaving streaks.
• Warm water and washing-up liquid: perfect for loosening light grime and day-to-day splatters.
• White vinegar in a spray bottle: great for cutting through cloudiness and restoring that glassy shine.

For deeper cleans

• A non-scratch sponge: gentle enough for glass, effective enough for greasy patches.
• Hob cream cleaner: helps lift stubborn marks without damaging the surface.
• A glass hob scraper: or, in a pinch, a plastic loyalty card, for safely removing cooked-on residue.
• A separate soft cloth for buffing: this is the secret to a streak-free finish.

What not to use on an induction hob

"If you wouldn’t use it on your phone screen, don’t use it on your hob," cautions Luke Arnel-Cameron, managing director of Yass Clean. "That means no abrasive scouring pads, no steel wool, and no harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, all of which can scratch, dull or mark the glass and the control symbols."

If you’re using a cleaning spray or cream cleaner, Luke also recommends popping on a pair of gloves and to avoid getting product directly on the control markings.

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How to clean an induction hob: A step-by-step Guide

Cleaning an induction hob doesn’t require a heavy hand. Just a light touch and a bit of consistency should do the trick. These are the simple steps that experts recommend:

1. Make sure the hob is completely cool
   Induction hobs cool quickly, but it’s still best to give the surface a moment to cool down. Switch it off at the mains if possible.
2. Start with a simple wipe-down
   Use warm water and a little washing-up liquid with a microfibre cloth. This loosens everyday splatters from cooking and lifts any residue sitting on the glass.
3. Tackle light smears with vinegar
   If the surface still looks cloudy, spritz a little diluted white vinegar and buff with a clean microfibre cloth. Sarah Whitfield notes that vinegar works brilliantly on glass-topped electric and induction hobs, helping bring back that sparkle without harsh chemicals.
4. Soak stubborn marks and let the cleaner do the work
   If you’re dealing with cooked-on residue, avoid scrubbing right away. Instead, apply a hob cream cleaner and leave it to sit for 20–30 minutes.
5. Lift cooked-on bits with a scraper
   Once the cleaner has softened the residue, use a glass hob scraper at a shallow angle to gently lift it off. Ian Palmer-Smith advises keeping the tool as horizontal as possible to avoid scratching. A old plastic loyalty card works in a pinch for very small patches.
6. Rinse and wipe clean
   Use a soft, damp cloth to remove any leftover cleaner or residue. Avoid letting product pool around the control markings, as repeated contact can fade them over time.
7. Dry and buff for a streak-free shine
   Finish with a fresh microfibre or glass cleaning cloth, buffing in light circular motions. A final mist of vinegar or a glass cleaner can help achieve that flawless, reflective finish.

How often should you clean your induction hob?

“I always recommend giving your induction hob a quick wipe down after every use with a vinegar and water solution or hob cleaner," says Sarah Whitfield from Stoves. "That way, you can avoid burnt-on residue which builds up and becomes harder to clean. If it’s left too long, acidic foods such as fruits, tomatoes, and vinegars or salty or sugary foods can leave marks or dull spots and damage surfaces.”

Luke Arnel-Cameron agrees, adding: “The biggest mistake I see time and again is waiting too long. When you clean as you go, once the hob’s cool, you’ll never need to scrub hard."

“I tell customers: think of hob cleaning like brushing your teeth: quick daily care and a deeper clean weekly,” he advises. “After each use, a warm, soapy wipe-down prevents build-up. Once a week, take a few extra minutes to give the surface a proper polish. A monthly deep clean keeps everything sparkling and performing at its best.”

FAQs

Can you use vinegar or bicarbonate of soda on an induction hob?

It’s tempting to reach for natural cleaners, but they’re not always the best match for delicate glass surfaces. “Natural solutions such as white vinegar can help remove limescale but may leave streaks on glass surfaces,” cautions Sophie Lane, product training lead at Miele GB. “Likewise, bicarbonate of soda is mildly abrasive and should be avoided on ceramic or induction hobs to prevent scratching.”

These DIY cleaning methods can be fine for very light cleaning, but Sophie stresses that purpose-made products are the safer choice. “While these natural, DIY options can work for light cleaning, commercial hob cleaners are specially formulated to protect delicate surfaces and deliver a polished finish,” she adds.

Why do marks appear even after I’ve cleaned the hob?

Cloudy patches, streaks or dull spots usually mean that residue hasn’t been fully lifted or the surface hasn’t been dried completely. This can happen if cleaner is simply spread around rather than removed, or if water is left to evaporate on the glass. A dry microfibre cloth is perfect for the final step, as it helps pick up any lingering residue and restores a clear, polished finish.

How do you clean a gas hob?

Gas models require a little more dismantling than an induction or ceramic hob, but the cleaning process is still straightforward. Appliance expert Ian Palmer-Smith notes that the materials you need “depend on the type of hob you have and how dirty it is,” but for gas hobs specifically, warm soapy water, a gentle cleaning spray and soft cloths are the essentials.

Start by making sure the hob is fully cool, then lift off the burner caps and supports. Ian recommends a simple setup: “A bucket or sink of warm water with washing-up liquid, cleaning spray, two soft cloths, a toothbrush, and a soft-bristled scrubbing brush.” Soak the removable parts in warm, soapy water to loosen grease, then use the brush or toothbrush to get into the tricky areas around the burners"

Wipe the surface with a gentle cleaning spray and a soft cloth, avoiding anything abrasive. Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble the burners and give the hob a final buff.

Knowing how to keep a hob clean is just one part of achieving a truly spotless kitchen. Pairing it with a reliable cooker hood or kitchen extractor fan helps control steam, reduce residue and prevent mould from forming.

What looks like the perfect plot on which to build your own home can come with a surprise in the form of restrictive covenants and overage. Either can have serious implications for your project.

You might have come across restrictive covenants when buying a house. In this case they have to be considered before making the purchase because they regulate either the use or the appearance of the property.

But restrictive covenants on land also need careful investigation because they can limit what you can build, or even prevent you from doing so. And it’s also vital to be aware of any overage provisions that mean you’ll have to make a further payment on the land in the future and, here, we provide expert advice on both.

What is a restrictive covenant on land?

A self-build plot can come with restrictive covenants on what you can build there, or even whether you can do so at all. The existence of planning permission doesn’t waive the restrictions.

Before you buy a plot it’s imperative that your solicitor reviews the title deeds in order to find out how covenants might affect your project – not doing so is one of the plot-buying mistakes you should avoid.

What is overage on land?

Like a restrictive covenant, overage can also have implications for a self-build project – albeit not in the same way.

“An overage is an obligation on the buyer to make a further payment being a share of the increase in the value of the land after the occurrence of one or more ‘trigger’ events,” says Tom Coulson, associate solicitor at SAS Daniels. “This can be in the form of a separate overage agreement or incorporated into the title deeds.”

The difference between restrictive covenants and overage? “A restrictive covenant is an obligation to restrict the use of the land in some way,” explains Tom. “The restrictive covenant must be for the benefit of some other land. For example, where the seller retains some land adjoining the plot of land being sold to the buyer. A common restrictive covenant is to prevent building without prior consent.

“An overage does not prevent building but will oblige the owner to make a payment of the agreed share of the increase in value,” he says.

Overage: what to be aware of

There are a number of issues you need to bear in mind when there is an overage on land, including when you would have to pay.

“The trigger for payment is commonly the earlier of implementation of planning permission for development or sale of the land with the benefit of planning permission,” says Tom Coulson. “However, it could be even more restrictive such as the grant of permission or the mere disposal of the land at a higher price.

“Development should be carefully defined to ensure that payment is only triggered where it is relevant,” he says. “For example, where you are purchasing land to build a property but the seller wishes to include an overage protecting them in the event of further development, it should not be triggered by the development of the one property.

“Check whether the calculation is based upon the uplift in value compared to the value without the benefit of the permission at the time of the trigger event or the original sale price,” he adds.

Get informed before buying

Restrictive covenants and overage on land can mean the difference between achieving the home you have planned for the self-build budget you have drawn up and not doing so, making it vital to be well informed before committing.

“If the seller wants you to enter into an overage, it is vital to negotiate these terms at the point of agreeing the price to avoid disputes at a later stage and increased legal costs,” says Tom Coulson. “You should ask your solicitor to check that there are no existing covenants preventing you from carrying out your plans.”

Be aware of overage when looking for a plot for a self-build home as well as paying attention to whether restrictive covenants attach to the land to avoid the issues they can bring. Appointing a specialist conveyancer to investigate and advise is essential.

Restrictive covenants are important legal restrictions that regulate either the appearance or use of the property.

This may sound arcane, but these restrictions on how you may use your property, or how it relates to its neighbours, are fairly common, according to Liz Williams, a land and property acquisition specialist.

“The most important thing is to read and understand them,” she says. “When you are buying a property, your solicitor should provide you with a document called a "report on title” before you decide to exchange, and then complete on the land or property. In that report, which you should always read, the solicitor should detail what restrictive covenants exist, and what the risks to you are.”

Alternatively, before this stage you can carry out your own “title” check by looking at the registered title at the Land Registry. Liz recommends this as a very inexpensive way (from £7) of looking at any restrictions on the property before you commit to legal costs. She warns that you should always use the government site to do this; other landing pages may involve extra costs.

What does having a restrictive covenant mean?

The vast majority of properties don’t have any restrictive covenants. But for those that do, restrictive covenants are important legal restrictions.

“They typically form part of the property deeds and must be taken seriously as they can be enforced by law,” warns presenter, author, businessman and property investor Phil Spencer.

“In short, if you’re considering buying a home with a restrictive covenant you need to know what it is and what it restricts.” If you have plans to extend, for example, and the restriction prevents this, you will find yourself having a battle to do as you wish.

The presence and nature of any restrictive covenant should be picked up by your conveyancing solicitor – so do make sure you read through any correspondence they send you carefully and query anything you don’t understand.”

What types of restrictive covenants are there?

Most restrictive covenants relate to the use of the land, says Liz Williams. “For example, they might prohibit you from keeping livestock. On older properties, pigs are a favourite!”

Some of the most common restrictive covenants prevent the owner from making major structural changes to a property, such as converting a house into flats, adding an extension or loft conversion. This could be a problem if you want to extend or use or sell any of the land for development.

Restrictive covenants might also prevent the installation of large structures, such as garden buildings. They can also forbid adding smaller things like security cameras or a satellite dish.

“Some of the most surprising can be to do with religious restrictions, such as not using the land for the production of ammunition or arms,” says Liz Williams.

Restrictive covenants can also demand that certain kinds of businesses are not operated from the house. For example, a house originally built by a brewery might prevent the property having its own bar, even for personal use.

This type of legal restriction might prevent the owner from renting out the property, either long-term of through Airbnb. It might also prohibit the parking of commercial vehicles, a boat or caravan on the driveway; this is common with leasehold properties.

“I’ve even heard of covenants that limit the number or type of pets that can be kept, or the playing of musical instruments, at the property,” says Phil Spencer. “Or hanging washing on a balcony,” adds Liz Williams.

Can a restrictive covenant devalue a house?

“The short answer is maybe,” says Phil Spencer. “Restrictive covenants ‘run with the land’, meaning they don’t just apply to original owners, but to future ones too.”

However, the impact of a restrictive covenant will depend on what restrictions are. “If the restrictions are esoteric – like say a prohibition on keeping big cats in the garden – they’re unlikely to matter,” he adds. “But the more restrictive, the more they matter.”

So, if the restrictive covenant forbids extending the house, or the erection of anything on the roof – such as solar panels – its presence might make the property unattractive to potential buyers.

However, always remember restrictive covenants can be challenged or overturned if they are found to be unreasonable, says Phil Spencer, or if they conflict with other legal obligations such as planning laws. This isn’t easy; but feasible (see below).

“In such cases, a court may decide to modify or discharge the covenant,” he explains. “You’ll need legal help if you want to do this, but good solicitors will give you a clear idea of the price and work on a no sale/no fee basis, which means you can guarantee you’ll be getting value for money.”

Can a restrictive covenant be removed?

Restrictive covenants can be removed, but normally only with the consent of the person or their successor (the surviving beneficiary of a will or relative) who put the covenant in place.

“My advice is walk away if it’s too onerous, or take indemnity insurance (see below),” says Liz Williams. “Removing a restrictive covenant is too painful unless there is a lot of money at stake. Even then it’s a gamble.”

“You need to be able to identify and contact them, or removing it is normally a non-starter,” she says. “If you do know who they are, then they have to agree to the removal and there is normally a “release fee” which is not defined.”

If you can’t find them, or there is a dispute, you can go to a court, known as the ‘Upper Land Tribunal’, to apply. This can be a very lengthy and expensive process, and is not normally considered worth the trouble, according to Liz: “If there is no sign of anyone who could benefit, some cash buyers may take a risk, but normally an insurance policy is taken out in case a claim ever arises. Your solicitor can normally obtain a quote for you for the insurance.”

One recent case in 2022, was Cheung & Anor v Mackenzie. This related to a single property, 444 Selsdon Road, south Croydon, Surrey, carrying a 1947 restriction.

The covenant prevented building on the site “except one detached dwelling house”. The purchaser wanted to develop for flats. This particular case went all the way to the High Court, and an appeal, before the applicant successfully had agreement from the courts, who ruled a ”deed of modification” was permissible.

“It wasn’t straightforward at all, and relied heavily on interpretation of wording,” says Liz Williams.

Should you buy a house with a restrictive covenant?

According to Liz Williams, the factors you should consider when buying a house with a restrictive covenant are:

• What the restriction stops you doing with the property – will you still be able to use the house for the purpose you wish?
• Does the restriction affect all of the land and buildings or only part of it?
• Does it matter to you over and above how much you like the house?
• Would it stop you using the land or property as you want to do?
• Will it matter to any future purchaser when you want to sell?
• Do you want or need to get the restriction removed? Is this possible?
• Who benefits from the restriction? Are they, or their successors, still alive, traceable and contactable?
• Has the valuation of the property taken into account the restriction?
• Do you need indemnity insurance – usually costing a couple of hundred pounds – if you proceed to purchase, in order to secure a mortgage, or simply to minimise risks? Or will you take a view and proceed anyway (normally this is for cash buyers only)? “Please note, a breach of a restrictive covenant can result in legal action against you,” Liz warns.
• Are you buying at the right price? Should you ask for a discount or for the seller to pay for any indemnity insurance because of the restrictions?

FAQs

Is it difficult to sell a house with a restrictive covenant?

If you’re selling a home with a restrictive covenant, you are obliged to declare it at the earliest reasonable opportunity, typically when you advertise your home for sale.

This would be part of ‘Material Information’, which is part of the National Trading Standards guidance requiring all information provided in a property listing to be accurate, truthful, and not misleading.

“The impact of any covenant on the saleability of your home will depend on what the restrictions are,” says Phil Spencer. “Some mortgage lenders can be wary of lending on a property that has very strict covenants. Buyers should take advice from their solicitor about how restrictive or enforceable the clauses are.”

If you’re selling and have knowingly – or unknowingly - breached any covenant yourself during your ownership of the property, it might be worth taking out restrictive covenant insurance, Phil advises.

“This helps minimise your risk, as in the event the covenant is challenged, it can help cover any legal costs defending your actions.

“Bear in mind this indemnity insurance will only apply if you’ve breached the covenant for 12 months and haven’t been challenged.

“The most important step to take is to seek legal advice, so ensure you speak to your solicitor if you’re in this situation.”

What is the 12-year rule for restrictive covenants?

The 12-year rule for restrictive covenants relates to the Limitation Act 1980, which states legal action must be taken within 12 years of a breach of a restrictive covenant. “The time limit starts from the date of the breach occurring, not the date of the deed of the land was made,” Liz Williams explains.

Are restrictive covenants enforceable after 20 years? “Yes, they are but it is much more difficult to enforce,” advises Liz. Bear in mind too, The Limitation Act 1980 states that claims in land should be brought within 12 years, and this will likely apply.

Liz Williams adds: "Always seek truly independent legal advice from a SRA registered legal professional. None of this article represents legal advice."

For many people choosing a new oven, the choice will be between conventional vs convection. These cooking appliances work in slightly different ways, making them better for some types of cook than others.

When it comes to choosing kitchen appliances, you will find that there are many different types of oven. However, conventional and convection are both popular choices so it is a good idea to understand how each works and the advantages and disadvantages of both. In this way you can be sure that you are buying the right one for your needs.

Take a look at our handy guide to the differences between conventional and convection ovens to help you make the right choice.

How does a conventional oven work?

First off, what is a conventional oven? This is one of the simplest types of oven. Within the oven itself are two heating elements, one on the top and one on the bottom. These elements heat the air inside the oven and can be used individually or together, depending on the type of cooking you are doing – roasting, grilling, baking and so on.

What is a convection oven?

Convection ovens are slightly newer types of cooker and are also sometimes known as fan ovens. 

Like conventional ovens, convection ovens still have two heating elements but they are also fitted with a fan to help distribute the heat generated by the elements around the oven cavity, giving a more even heat. 

In some cases you will see the term 'true convection.' This means the oven has a third heating element, located at the back of the oven. The idea behind this type of convection oven is that they can reduce cooking times thanks to the way that heat  quickly and evenly reaches all areas of the cavity. These ovens often require no preheating either. 

Conventional vs. convection ovens

So, which should you choose? For many people delving into the world of built-in ovens, the choice comes down to a conventional oven or a convection oven. If you are struggling to decide it can help to take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of each,

"Fan-assisted ovens, also known as convection ovens, offer a swifter, more even cooking experience thanks to the way they circulate hot air," explains James McCartney, business development director at Appliance City. "Another benefit of this type of built-in oven is that it lowers energy consumption by 20%, helping to keep your bills as low as possible. This all gives you less to worry about and more time to enjoy your cooking space."

"A convection oven uses a heating element combined with a fan to distribute the heat around the cavity; this results in faster and more even cooking as food can be cooked on multiple shelf levels without compromising the results," adds Tom Akers, product training manager at Miele GB. "In contrast, a conventional oven is not assisted and simply uses a heating element in the roof and floor of the cavity. Due to the lack of heat distribution assistance, this is generally slower than a convection oven and typically requires food to be placed in the centre of the oven for best results.”

Conventional and convection ovens at a glance

Three built-in ovens we love

When designing a kitchen, along with your choice of oven, the appliances you choose need to be considered not only for their practicality but also as part of your kitchen scheme as whole. For some people, built-in appliances will always be best, offering a sleek, fuss-free finish, while in other cases, freestanding goods, such as a professional-style range cooker or impressive American-style fridge freezer will fit in better with the overall scheme. 

What is a conventional oven? If you are looking for new cooking appliance for your kitchen you might well be asking this question and be wondering how they differ from other types of cooker, such as convection, pyrolytic and so on. 

The world of kitchen appliances can be a complicated one, mainly due to the fact that there are so many different terms for all the various functions they can perform these days - as well as the sheer number of products now on offer.

Here, we look at conventional ovens, explain how they work and whether they will be a good fit for your cooking needs.

What is a conventional oven?

A conventional (not to be confused with the very similar sounding convection oven) relies on two heating elements to heat the air inside the oven. The heating element on the bottom of the oven's cavity delivers the majority of the heat and is perfect when it comes to roasting big cuts of meat.

The element on the top of the oven is designed to give off a really powerful heat from above. It is ideal for grilling or browning dishes. These elements can be used independently or together, depending on what you are cooking in your oven.

This type of oven heavily relies on the user selecting the right rack placement — with the middle rack being considered the best spot for baking, or slower cooking.

In addition to this type of oven and convection ovens, many people also ask 'what is a steam oven?' and it is well worth considering this as an option, either instead of or alongside your conventional oven. 

How to use a conventional oven

With no fan to distribute heat evenly around the oven's cavity, there is a knack to getting the most out of a conventional oven and this is one of the biggest differences between conventional vs convection oven.

The key lies in where you place the food you are cooking within the oven. For example, if you were to cook a full meal in there, a large roasting joint should be placed in the centre, with the potatoes at the top to ensure a crisp result and perhaps a cake at the bottom where it can be cooked at a more gentle temperature. 

Pros and cons of a conventional oven

Pros of conventional ovens

While in many ways conventional ovens have been overtaken in the popularity stakes by other types of oven, they still hold some advantages over these more modern appliances. 

• Can be better for cooking foods that you want to keep moist as they have no exhaust system that removes moisture from the oven like fan ovens
• Some keen bakers prefer them for cooking foods that require rising, such as bread and cakes. This is because convection ovens can cook the outside faster than the inside, interfering with rising times
• Are usually cheaper to buy than convection ovens

Cons of conventional ovens:

• Uneven cooking temperatures throughout the oven meaning dishes may need to be rotated
• Take longer to get up to temperature
• Less energy efficient as they take longer to preheat and cook food — it really is well worth looking into energy ratings for appliances with ever-rising energy prices

Three of our favourite built-in ovens

If you are struggling to decide which type of oven will be best for you, then a multifunction oven could be just the thing you have been looking for. 

In short, a multifunction oven brings together a conventional oven and a convection oven in one.

"They are built with multiple heating elements behind the oven walls — a top element, a bottom element and one coiled around the electric element," says xxx. "A multifunction oven essentially takes a conventional oven and a fan oven and combines them."

Most multifunction ovens these days also offer a whole host of other handy features, such as a defrost function, features that help them heat up quicker than a standard fan oven. It is also well worth checking out what is a combination microwave as these also offer a range of functions in one. 

The Envirovent Silent 100T is a 100mm extractor fan that’s here to help remove steam and moisture from your bathroom and hopefully keep any mould making an appearance. No one wants mould growing in their bathroom, it's ugly and can be bad for your health.

The Envirovent Silent 100T is an axial fan, which is one of the most common types of extractor fans found in today's bathrooms. They are typically installed through a wall where the ducting is commonly two metres or less. The fan draws in moisture from the air and vents it to the outside. Ideal for the average sized family bathroom.

Will the Envirovent Silent 100T be the extractor fan you need in your bathroom? Find out what we thought of the 100T as we replaced our old fan with the Envirovent Silent. And see how well it compares with some of the best bathroom extractor fans on the market today. 

First impressions of the Envirovent Silent 100T extractor fan

You might think extractor fans are extractors fans and they are all much the same. They can definitely look very similar, so I wondered what I was going to get with the Envirovent Silent 100T extractor fan? The packaging left me in little doubt of what I should expect when I finally opened the box. Images of the fan in situ gave a pretty idea of what the fan was going to look like, a neat graphic instantly conveying the dimensions of the fan, a list of features and a comparison chart with different models in the Silent range.

So before we even opened the box we knew we were going to get more features than the Silent 100S and 100SS, but not as many features as the Silent 100HT. But we were going to have the same amount of features as the 100PIR, 100IT and 100ST, just slightly different features. For example, there was an adjustable timer on the model we had, but there wasn’t an adjustable humidity sensor that was available on other models and our extractor fan wasn’t going to be silver, but we already knew that from the image on the front of the box.

So now to the unboxing. As we expected there wasn’t a great deal in the box, apart from the fan, an instruction leaflet and four screws and wall plugs. A large foam ring was in place between the actual fan component and the removable face on the fan to protect the fan from getting damaged in transit, it did exactly what it was supposed to do.

The Silent 100T came in standard white as most of the models in the Envirovent 100 range, but there are silver options if you don't want white. But the silver models don’t offer exactly the same set of features as the 100T.

Happily the packaging and extractor fan are both recyclable. The box is cardboard, the front of the fan is made from ABS plastic, which means it can be reused multiple times and the fan is made from PP (polypropylene) which is recyclable.  

Can I install the Envirovent Silent 100T extractor fan myself?

There are a few rules you need to follow when installing a bathroom extractor fan like the Envirovent Silent 100. The key issue is the location of a bathroom extractor fan as Richard Bacon, a professional electrician of 26 years explains. “Under the current IEE Wiring regulations bathrooms are classed as special locations and split into three zones 0,1 & 2. Zone 0 is directly inside the bath or shower, Zone 1 is the immediate area surrounding the bath or shower and Zone 2 is a further 600mm from Zone 1. All electrical works within the special location must be carried out by a Part P registered electrical and certified accordingly.” If this is the case for your extractor fan location, then you need to call in a professional to get the job done.

However, Bacon goes on to say that you might not need a professional to do the job. “If the fan is to be installed outside of the special locations then this could be carried out by a competent DIYer.” 

Is installing the Envirovent Silent 100T extractor fan easy?

Thankfully, I had wiring and the right size outlet already in place (outside Zone 2). But the Silent 100T is capable of being installed in Zone 1, which is reinforced by its IP45 rating, which establishes how water resistant it is, though fans with higher ratings are often recommended for Zone 1.

A 100mm fan like the Silent 100T is a common size found in a lot of bathrooms, so it was reasonably easy to install. After reading the instruction manual to make sure I knew how to connect and set up the fan correctly, I removed my old extractor fan. The Envirovent Silent 100T slipped easily into the existing hole. A raised strip on the outlet ensured that the fan sat neatly in place. I could have not bothered with the accompanying screws, but it made sense to secure the fan in place. The screws and plugs were sufficient to hold the fan in place.

My wiring needed trimming back, so I bought some wire strippers and sorted out the wiring. There's a recess on the back of the fan unit to fit the wiring. A rubber cap covers the cable entry point with the terminals on the opposite side. It took a little manoeuvring, but I got the unit wired up. Now it was a matter of giving it a test to see that it was working and on it went as I pulled the cord on my light switch.

I’m not confident when it comes to electrics, but a quick word from my electrician friend before I started made sure the job was done as it should be. If ever in any doubt about working with electrics, call in an electrician.

What features does the Envirovent Silent 100T extractor fan have?

Sealed for life bearings, silent elastic blocks, a back draught shutter and adjustable timer are features of the Envirovent Silent 100T. It's hard to judge the sealed for life bearings over a short time period, but they help the fan run efficiently and smoothly and seemed to work perfectly well while writing this review.

The silent elastic blocks help reduce noise and vibration and there’s no doubt they worked well in our tests. There’s a back draught shutter which is there to stop air coming back through the fan when it's not in action. This was a flimsy piece of plastic that really didn’t look like it was up to the challenge, but it seemed to work OK. But it didn’t fill us with confidence if a really strong wind was to come our way.

The key feature – not found on every Envirovent 100 fan – was the adjustable timer. This allows you to choose a run on time after the fan has been switched off. You can choose between one minute to 30 minutes. It's easy to adjust, you just need a small phillips screwdriver to turn it clockwise or anticlockwise. A sticker on the inside of the fan offers a graphic for quick guidance.

If you have a bathroom or shower that produces a lot of steam, switch to a longer run on time. Finally for peace of mind the Envirovent 100 comes with a 5 year warranty, if installed by a qualified person.  

How well did the Envirovent Silent 100T extractor work?

Building Regulations state that a bathroom extractor fan must extract a minimum of 15l/s (litres per second) in your average home bathroom. The Envirovent Silent 100T has a maximum flow rate of 26l/s which makes it a good choice for most bathrooms.

I tested the Silent 100T in my bathroom which isn’t small, it measures 3m x 3m and has a decent size window to help with ventilation. But, on cold days the window stays shut, so it's down to the extractor fan to do its thing, which is situated on the wall in Zone 2.

I generated a decent amount of steam and moisture, but the steam wasn’t so thick I couldn't see the other side of the bathroom. 

I left this for 15 minutes (the time for having a bath) and then switched on the Envirovent Silent 100T. As it clicked into gear I was waiting to see how quiet it was. It's described as whisper quiet and it's an apt description. It's not totally inaudible, but it’s hard to hear and after a while it blends into the background and becomes inaudible.

The adjustable timer was set to five minutes, so we switched off the light, left the fan running, went and checked to see a pretty steam free, little moisture on the tile bathroom. I adjusted the timer to ten minutes and the next time there was no moisture on the tile. Job done. 

Only a stone’s throw from the picturesque cliffs and sandy beaches of Broadstairs, nestled in verdant woodlands, lays a truly captivating home. 

Designed by the acclaimed Giles Miller Studio ‘Woven’ is an extraordinary residence that has been built to embrace nature with its 360 scenic views and unique metal façade, designed to be engulfed by climbing plants. 

Keep reading to discover how this extraordinary eco house acts as a 'living canvas' and invites its residents to immerse themselves in nature... 

The house embraces its natural surroundings

On a hidden plot of land in Kent, where an old nunnery once stood, Sarah-Jane and Giles Miller embarked on a self-build project to create a home that would seamlessly integrate itself with nature. 

The surrounding landscape, rich in towering trees, served as their inspiration and together they built a unique 'woven' house that would act as a 'living canvas', designed to be enveloped by foliage over time. 

Giles, an architect primarily known for his work on pavilions and social spaces, revealed that the couple wanted to maintain the prominence of the trees and make them the defining feature of the building. Therefore, the structure of Woven does not compete with nature, it embraces it.

The intricate latticework allows natural light in

Woven's external skin is formed from a series of intricately designed metal screens that feature sculptural latticework. This unique design allows light in and doesn't obstruct views from inside. 

According to Giles, this unusual pattern was inspired by the 'mathematical circularity of twisted rattan weave' and it is intended to act as frame for nature. Planters have been cleverly positioned within the framework to encourage climbing plants to grow within it, gradually engulfing the house and further embedding it into its sylvan surroundings. 

Interiors that bring the outside in

Stepping inside, you are greeted by a natural and unobtrusive interior palette, largely compromised of soft plywood. These pared-back interiors were intentionally designed to minimise any distractions and to draw your eye to the beauty beyond the windows.

Expansive glazing throughout ensures that every view from within the home remains unblocked. This allows dappled light to weave its magic through the windows at varying times of the day, illuminating the house with an ever-changing glow.

The ground floor is arranged around a central service area, housing utilities, a WC, and the stairwell. This open plan, 360 approach pushes the living spaces out towards the light, bringing the outside in. A bespoke steel staircase rises through the centre of the house, leading to four equal-sized bedrooms on the first floor, as well as an expansive outdoor terrace. “When you come here, you reconnect with nature,” comments Sarah-Jane. 

Sustainability is at its core

The couple’s commitment to blending design with nature stems from their core design principle of celebrating the interplay of materials and light. 

The project was delivered by a collaborative cohort environmentally-conscientious architects, engineers and makers. Appliances throughout the house has been selected for their eco performance and functionality, while natural building materials - such as horsehair, pure cotton, and Shetland wool - have been chosen for their sustainable credentials. 

The home is currently on the market 

Having realised their dream of building a home that echoes their love of nature, Sarah-Jane and Giles Miller have decided to put their masterpiece up for sale. Woven is currently on the market through luxury estate agency, The Modern House, and offers potential buyers the opportunity to purchase not just a residence but an experience. 

Ensconced in a natural glade, Woven's future owners can look forward to the soothing sounds of the waves in the distance and the tang of salt in the air. So, if you have a spare £1.5million, you could be waking up to 360 views of nature in your very own 'living canvas'... 

The Stoves Richmond 100PYR Pyramid Chimney can be used either as a recirculating cooker hood, or as a ducted, extracting cooker hood. It’s all down to how you set it up. If you decide to use this chimney as an extracting cooker hood, you’ll need to purchase additional ducting with fittings, so that you can channel cooking fumes from the cooker hood to an outlet on an external wall.

For this review, I installed the 100PYR as a recirculating cooker hood, which means the air that passes through its filters and fan gets cycled back into the kitchen. The findings published here will reflect that choice. 

It’s worth bearing in mind that this is a relatively large type of cooker hood. At about one metre wide, the appliance is suitable for use with many range cookers, as well as with standard 60 cm ones. This might rule the 100PYR out for some kitchens, although we think it looks good enough to be a large statement piece in most kitchens – even smaller ones.

Stoves Richmond 100PYR product specifics

• Warranty length: two years 
• Type of cooker hood: extracting or recirculating chimney (depending on installation)
• Filters Required: 3 x washable grease filters; 1 x charcoal filter 
• Number of fan speeds: three 
• Extraction rate: ranges from 300 ㎥/h (minimum) to 610 ㎥/h (maximum)
• Additional features: timed boost 
• Dimensions: 998 mm x 542.5 mm

Setup and maintenance

Installation: Installing and setting up the 100PYR as a recirculating cooker hood only took me an afternoon. However, had I been installing the appliance as an extracting cooker hood, the time and effort required would have been greater. 

If you’re comfortable with DIY, you’ll hopefully be able to install the 100PYR without hiring a professional. However, it must be said that the installation instructions in the manual are not especially clear or thorough. Confusingly, the instruction manual seems to indicate that you need to buy some additional ducting if using the product as a recirculating cooker hood. I called the Stoves team to check, and they assured me that this would not be the case. 

You can read my full account of setting up this particular cooker hood in my guide: how to fit a recirculating cooker hood. Do make sure that you have a power outlet ready in the right position for the cooker hood, before you buy. 

Maintenance: Once you’ve got it set up, the 100PYR is no trouble to keep in good condition. The surfaces wipe clean easily, and the dark colour of the appliance can minimise the appearance of marks between cleans (although it does highlight dust). 

It’s incredibly easy to insert or remove the grease and carbon filters from the 100PYR, using their user-friendly installation mechanisms - just remember to remove the blue protective material from the grease filters before use. The grease filters need to be taken out and washed from time to time, either by hand or in the dishwasher. This quick task greatly extends the filters’ lifespan, relative to a non-washable alternative. Meanwhile, the charcoal filters (for recirculating use) are non-washable. Replacing the 100PYR’s filters is a repeating cost, which you should take into consideration before purchasing the appliance. 

Performance and design

Usability: The 100PYR is exceptionally easy to use. You simply press one of the three numbered control buttons to activate the fan at your desired speed setting, and press the power button to turn it off. That’s all there is to it! 

Style: It’s a fantastic-looking cooker hood, with a timeless chimney design that can change the look and feel of a kitchen for the better. The components feel robust and well-made – especially the rail on the front of the hood. What's more, while the 100PYR looks great at any time, it comes into its own at night, when the mellow glow of the in-built LED lights can really transform the ambience of your kitchen. A cooker hood may be less important than the cooker itself, but this one somehow feels like the heart of the kitchen. 

Function: During my hands-on testing, the 100PYR did a great job of capturing and recirculating air from my cooker. From boiling water and simmering sauces, to sizzling bacon and scrambling eggs, the cooker hood has visibly drawn in the fumes from every item I’ve cooked on the hob, since installation. For the first time in years, I’ve been able to fry bacon to the point of a perfect crispiness, without worrying about setting the fire alarm off! Furthermore, the 100PYR has proven sufficiently powerful to capture air from the oven and grill. 

A good indicator of the cooker hood’s effectiveness was that it successfully neutralised the smells of cooking food. Without entirely removing aromas, the 100PYR seemed to reduce the prevalence of oily, greasy smells. My partner – who is more attuned to such things than I am – said that the house now smells fresher, during cooking. 

Pete's top tip: You’ll probably want to use the 100PYR’s medium and high fan speeds sparingly, as the cooker hood is pretty noisy when used in these modes. Thankfully, the slowest setting is powerful enough to deal with most meals. You’ll probably only need the higher settings at times when your cooking is giving off a lot of steam or fumes – for example, when you are frying or grilling at a high temperature.  

Should you buy the 100PYR?

One factor that might work against the 100PYR is affordability. It's on the upper end of the market, although its RRP of £549.00 is lower than some premium models sold by brands such as Miele and Airforce. And when you factor in the recurring costs of replacing the 100PYR’s grease filters and charcoal filters, this is a pretty expensive product. 

The 100PYR’s functions are essentially similar to what you’d get with many models of cooker hood that come at a lower price point. What you’re really paying for here is the cooker hood's style, performance and quality of components.

If you want to complete your kitchen with a statement piece that combines style and substance, this ambience-altering cooker hood will be well worth the investment.

In go the cooking fumes; out comes pure air. That’s the basic idea of a recirculating cooker hood. 

These home-enhancing appliances use a fan to suck in the air from your cooker, pass it through filters to remove moisture and food particles, and then release the purified air back into the kitchen. This reduces the levels of odour, moisture and unclean particulates that are released into the home during cooking. 

The recirculating cooker hoods that we’ll focus on in this guide do not require extensive ducting or an outlet. As long as you regularly clean or replace the filters (as specified), a recirculating cooker hood will greatly improve your air quality and the cleanliness of your kitchen. 

Here’s how I went about installing a highly-rated recirculating cooker hood: the Stoves Richmond 100PYR Pyramid Chimney. 

How to install a recirculating cooker hood 

Recirculating cooker hoods work differently to extracting cooker hoods. Extracting models tend to provide an even greater improvement to air quality, as they entirely remove cooking fumes from the building, via ducting and an outlet on the external wall. However, extracting cooker hoods can be expensive and awkward to install – especially if your cooker is far from an external wall.

Recirculating cooker hoods are comparatively affordable and can be fitted using a relatively small selection of commonplace DIY tools. How long it takes to fit a cooker hood varies depending on the model of hood, and how fast you work. I’m a slow DIYer, and I installed mine in about 3-4 hours. 

1. Choose your cooker hood

So, you’ve made the trouble-saving decision to install a recirculating cooker hood, rather than an extracting model. Good choice! Now you’ll need to select the right model for your kitchen. Think about:

Type – there are many different types of cooker hoods to suit different kitchens. These include chimney, island, ceiling, canopy and downdraft.

Width – the hood should be at least as wide as your cooker.

Features – e.g. multiple fan speeds, boost modes, smartphone operation.

Style – classic or contemporary?

2. Gather your tools

You shouldn’t need much equipment to install a recirculating cooker hood. I used these tools to fit mine:

Cordless combi drill (in hammer drill mode)

Masonry drill bits – multiple widths

Laser level with telescopic pole 

Tape measure

Pencil

Ladder 

Screwdrivers/screwdriver bits 

Rawl plugs (if not supplied)

The exact range of tools you need may vary, depending on which cooker hood you buy.

3. Finding the correct place for a cooker hood 

As you’d expect, the best place for a cooker hood is directly over the cooker. You’ll want to align the centre point of the hood with the centre point of the cooker. 

You’ll also need to think about vertical placement. The bottom of the cooker hood should be at least 65 cm clear of the hob. If you’re tall, a slightly higher placement is advisable – although if the hood is placed too high, it may become less effective at drawing in cooking fumes. 

Also, do make sure there’s a mains socket near enough to power the cooker hood. Ideally, the socket will be on your centre line, so that it can be hidden by the cooker hood chimney. 

4. How to wall mount a cooker hood

• First, mark the wall in the places where you’ll mount the cooker hood. Find the centre point of the oven, and draw a line vertically upwards from that point. Next, measure up from the top of the oven and find your chosen position for the bottom of the cooker hood. There should be at least 65 cm of clearance. 
• Using your pencil lines for guidance, hold the cooker hood against the wall in the place where it will be fixed. You’ll need help from at least one other person. Now, make pencil marks where the screws will join the cooker hood to the wall. Top tip: trace the outline of the fixing points onto the wall, rather than just drawing crosses. There’ll be plenty of time to choose the exact best place to drill afterwards.
• With the wall marked up, you can start drilling holes. I did this using a cordless combi drill in ‘hammer drill’ mode, with a masonry drill bit. There’s hard brick behind the plaster in my kitchen, so to make the job easier I drilled smaller pilot holes first, then expanded them using a wider drill bit.
• Next, delicately hammer some wall plugs into the holes. You can then ask your helper to assist you in lifting the cooker hood into place, while you fix screws through the cooker hood’s screw-holes and into the wall plugs using a screwdriver. If the cooker hood has multiple sections, repeat this process with each section until the entire appliance is secured to the wall. 

With a chimney-style cooker hood, like the one I’ve installed, you’ll need to secure a cowl in-place over the hole in the centre of the main cooker hood section, where the air flows up. Your mains power plug and socket should sit behind or above this cowl. Before covering these components with an additional section of chimney, make sure that the cowl is secure, and switch the power on so that the cooker hood can operate. 

Please note that in some cases, you may need to add screws to the wall before mounting the cooker hood, so that you can slot mounting holes in the appliance over the screw heads, and then tighten the screws fully. 

5. Additional components and filters 

You’re almost ready to start using your recirculating cooker hood. But first, check to ensure the relevant filters (charcoal and/or grease) are inserted, and free of excess packaging. 

Depending on which cooker hood you buy, there may be other extra components to assemble. For example, I added the rail to the front of mine at this point. 

With every part in its right place, you’re ready to start enjoying the benefits of a fume-free kitchen. Why not celebrate with a fry-up?

The best recirculating cooker hoods 

For this article, I fitted a Stoves Richmond 100PYR Pyramid Chimney, which can be used either as an extracting or recirculating cooker hood. Some other great options to consider include: 

The great cooking debate: induction vs gas. Which should you choose in order to enjoy preparing meals in your kitchen?

In the world of ovens and hobs, both are actually brilliant options for casual and keen cooks alike, making choosing between the two a difficult decision.

Hobs can either be bought separately, for fitting into the worktop or a kitchen island, or will come as part of a freestanding cooker, complete with the oven.

Here, we take a look at the pros and cons of gas and induction hobs, chat to the experts to get their opinions and explain the costs involved with both of these options. 

Induction vs gas: What's the difference?

The two are actually very different, both in the power sources they use as well as the way in which they heat food. 

Gas hobs, as the name suggests, use gas as their power source, while induction use electricity. This means that gas hobs are not an option for those without a mains gas supply, although it is possible to have gas hobs converted to run off LPG.

While gas hobs mean cooking over an open flame, what is an induction hob? Induction hobs feature 'induction coils' that sit beneath the glass surface of the hob. These coils are made from copper wire that, as electricity runs through them, create a high-frequency, alternating magnetic field. When a pan is placed on the hob, the magnetic field creates a reaction between the bottom of the pan and the cooking zone. This means that only the pot or pan heats up while the cooktop remains cool.

Even in the relatively short time that induction hobs have become an option, there have been some rapid developments in their technology.

"Smeg’s latest induction hob launch, the Area Induction Hob, has developed technology which means you can simply place pans where convenient and the Autopot detection function will automatically recognise the position of the pots throughout the hob, saving the user from having to activate the correct area," explains John Davies, head of marketing at Smeg UK.

What are the advantages of a gas hob?

When it comes to types of cooker, for many, nothing beats cooking on gas — in fact many professional chefs refuse to cook on anything else. The naked flames of a gas hob make the cooking experience very intuitive as there is a very obvious visual indicator on heat levels, making it unnecessary to get to grips with the controls of an induction hob. 

"Gas is a visible heat source, making it easy to control, as well as adjust," agrees Tom Hopper, kitchens manager at Miele GB. "Its design is also one that we are probably most familiar with in the kitchen. Cooking with gas provides an intensive heat that can be great for Oriental style cooking; as well as dishes that require high temperatures, such as flash frying."

Gas hobs no longer have to be chunky or too traditional in their design either.

"As with induction, design is equally important, with traditional styles that previously rose out of the work surface being replaced with more modern, flush or near-flush glass designs that sit inline with the worktop for a sleeker look." says Tom. "This is great if you desire this type of hob but also want a minimal design.” 

Another benefit of gas hobs is that fact that you can use pretty much whatever type of pan your heart desires to cook with, unlike induction hobs which require 'induction-friendly' pots and pans.

You also have the option to charr or flambé food directly over the naked flame and, lastly, they are super robust and withstand a good amount of clattering and banging without fear of scratching or damaging the hob top. 

Simple gas hobs, with four burners, can be picked up for as little as around £90.

To summarise, the pros of gas hobs are:

• Near instant control
• Offer intuitive cooking experience
• Possibility of a number of cooking methods
• Robust design
• Can be used with all pots and pans
• Will work should electricity supply fail
• Cheaper to buy than induction hobs

What are the disadvantages of a gas hob?

Of course there are also some downsides to gas hobs.

Their design can make them a little tricker to clean than sleek, flush induction hobs and it can be necessary to remove pan cradles to reach lodged in dirt or spills. 

Although their heat is almost instant, they do take a little longer to 'get going' than induction hobs and tweaking the heat can take a little more time than with the more precise induction method.

Gas hobs also work best when the pan size is perfectly matched to the burner — otherwise heat will be wasted. This is quite unlike induction, which will only heat the area directly beneath the pan, no matter what its size. 

Those designing a home for a young family or in households with cats that have a tendency to jump up on to work surfaces, need to consider the safety implications of the naked flames associated with gas cooking. 

Cons of gas hobs:

• Naked flame can be a safety concern
• More parts to clean than induction
• Heat the room and space around the pan, as opposed to the pan contents only

What are the advantages of induction hobs?

Induction hobs are now incredibly popular, with both professional chefs and homeowners alike — and for very good reason. 

"It is fast becoming the preferred choice, says Smeg's John Davies. "They are very streamlined, easy on the eye and generally considered safer around children, as well as being more efficient as they can heat quicker than traditional gas options.

"Many induction hobs are now more high-tech than ever and come with a variety of different cooking zone layouts to suit the individual cooking needs and multiple power levels for different types of cooking. 

"Induction hobs are also easier to clean and look very minimal and sleek," continues John. "Induction hobs are also considered to have more benefits for families because they are much safer around children due to them only heating up on the ring where the pan has been activated, with no live flame."

"Induction hobs are a great choice for passionate cooks, thanks to the precise temperature controllability, fast heat up times, automatic pan recognition and boosting functions for when an extra increase in temperature is required," says Miele's Tom Hopper. "They can be particularly good if you like to create delicate dishes. Melting chocolate on an induction hob, for example, is easier as the temperature can be so specifically controlled and there is no need for a water bath. They also fit well within the modern kitchen ideas of today, offering a sleek, minimal look that is very easy to keep clean, thanks to the ceramic glass.

"The technology used with induction cooking can help produce desired professional results when cooking in your kitchen at home," continues Tom. "TempControl from Miele is one of the latest innovations to be added to the induction range. Using power levels and sensors to detect the temperature of the pan, it automatically regulates the power on the hob to ensure that the food being cooked is fried at a constant temperature, preventing the dish from burning if the power is not turned down.

"And, finally, induction hobs are ideal if you have young children, as it is the pan that heats up and not the hob, meaning no scorching hot surfaces are ever exposed. Induction also has other family friendly benefits such as safety locks to prevent the hob being turned on accidentally," concludes Tom. "Look out for models with a ‘flush fit’, meaning that the hob is enclosed by the work surface for a sleek finish with no exposed edges. Induction hobs can also be connected wirelessly to a hood for intelligent extraction, creating the ideal cooking environment that is free from grease, smells and vapours."

So, the main benefits of induction hobs are:

• Instant heat control
• Sleek, modern appearance
• Easy to clean
• Safe as only the pan gets hot
• Many technological advances being made

What are the disadvantages of induction hobs?

With so many benefits to cooking with an induction hob, it is hard to believe there is any room for a few disadvantages.

"The very small downside of induction hobs is that they may not work with your old pans," says Tom Davies. "If the base of the pan won’t stick to a magnet, then the pan won’t work."

Ideally, pans need to be flat-bottomed too — and some models will switch off automatically or beep if the pan is removed for a quick shake.

Induction hobs are also more expensive than gas or electric ceramic hobs and some models can produce a 'humming' sound when running. There is also the fact that their glass surface can become scratched if you are not careful.

Basic four burner induction hobs start at around £180, rising to £5,000 at the upper end of the price scale. 

The main cons of induction hobs include:

• Expensive to buy (less so than they once were though)
• Can scratch
• Takes time to get used to heat controls
• Require induction-friendly pots and pans

Are induction hobs more energy efficient than gas?

In short, yes, they are. This is because, unlike when cooking with gas, heat isn’t lost between the burner and the pan (the transferring process.)

With gas hobs, a substantial amount of energy is lost to the air surrounding the cookware, whereas in the case of induction, only the pots and pans themselves are heated, which ultimately means energy and cost savings (and, of course, faster cooking times).

What are the other options?

 Should you decide that neither gas or an induction hob is right for you, what are the other options?

You could go down the ceramic hob route. When weighing up ceramic vs induction hobs, those trying to save pennies should be pleased with the much lower price tag of ceramic, as well as the fact that they won't have to invest in new pans should their old ones be unsuitable.

However, they could be left frustrated by the unresponsiveness of this type of hob and the slower cooking times.

The best news is that if you really can't decide between gas or induction, you could always opt for both.

"Smeg has also designed a mixed fuel hob which gives people the benefits of both gas and induction hobs," says Tom Davies. "Smart pan detection ensures cookware is heated effectively wherever its placed and it includes enhanced functions for slow melting, maintaining temperature, and for controlling sauces and soups when boiling."

Just what is a range cooker? We've all heard of them and probably seen them too, but do you know how they are different from other types of cooker and understand the features that set them apart?

To add to the confusion, along with range cookers there are also range-style cookers, which are actually different, although many people now use the two terms interchangeably.

Here, we explain exactly what defines a range cooker, take a look at range-style cookers and explain the alternatives too. We'll also take a look at how much they cost and the various new features now available plus we weigh up their pros and cons.

What is a range cooker?

There is sometimes a little confusion over what a range cooker is and the term is now used far more freely than it once was.

Range cookers were traditionally fired by oil or solid fuel and featured a number of hotplates and ovens. Many worked on the principle of heat storage as opposed to electricity or gas and for a lot of people, the first thing to spring to mind on hearing the term is the classic AGA.

However, things have come on in leaps and bounds in the world of cookers and these days, the term range cooker is used to describe any freestanding cooker that features two or more roomy ovens, multiple hob burners and a grill. In addition, the best range cookers are available with all kinds of optional extras, making them pretty much customisable. 

What are heat storage range cookers?

Heat storage range cookers are made from cast iron and use radiant heat from the cast iron ovens to cook the food. 

AGA, Rayburn and Everhot are probably the best known brands of heat storage range cookers.

If you are asking 'what is an AGA?' it is useful to know that AGAs are very spacious and come in various configurations of multi-level ovens (which will usually include a 'roasting oven', 'baking oven' and 'simmering oven') along with hot plates on top — a 'boiling plate' and a 'simmering plate'.

Although AGAs once ran on oil, these days they rely on electricity. They no longer have to be on all the time either, although they can be if you wish. 

"You can turn the tops of the AGA off completely when you don't need them, run the ovens on 'slumber' mode or set them on a timer to come on and off as and when you want them to be ready for use," explains cookery presenter and AGA demonstrator Naomi Hansell

Rayburn cookers are another well known brand of heat storage range cooker. They are now made by AGA and while they are also made of cast iron and feature various ovens with different functions, they can be fuelled by electricity, oil or solid fuel. 

In addition, they can also be used to power central heating and heat water. There are three different options: cooker only; cooking and hot water; and cooking, hot water and central heating models. 

Rayburn have just launched a range of Heatranger models which not only offer cooking, central heating and hot water but also include HVO-compatible burners which can be adapted to be powered by HVO — 95% hydrotreated vegetable oil and set to have big part to play in the UK reaching the government’s target on reduced carbon emissions.

Finally, Everhot are another well-known brand of heat storage range cooker. Their cookers consume a trickle feed supply of electricity and are purposefully designed to harness and closely mimic how renewable power is generated, making them a great option for those with solar panels. 

How big are range cookers?

Range cookers vary in size and have the potential to be very large if that is what is required. While it is true that many models are larger than conventional ovens, there are more compact options for those who love the look of ranges but are after small kitchen ideas to make the most of their space. Compact range cookers measuring just 60cm or 70cm in width usually only have a standard four burners, but some come with the option of a wok burner in place of one standard burner. At the other end of the size scale, range cookers are available in widths of up to 220cm — perfect for those who love to cook and entertain large gatherings on a regular basis.

What fuel do range cookers run on?

There are lots of options when it comes to the fuels that can be used to run range cookers. Some are all-electric, others are all-gas and many models are duel fuel, with a gas hob and electric ovens. 

How much do range cookers cost?

Just as with conventional cookers and built-in ovens, prices for range cookers vary depending on the brand, size, number of features and optional extras. 

Prices start from as little as £450 for small, single oven ranges, rising right up to more than £15,000 for very large professional-style ranges or some models of heat storage range cookers.

What are the benefits of a range cooker?

There are many advantages to owning a range cooker compared to other types of ovens and hobs. Your choice should be based on the way you like to cook, the style of your kitchen and your budget.

Pros of range cookers: 

• They make a statement: Range cookers can look really impressive and come in all kinds of styles, finishes and designs that mean they often take centre stage. 
• Great cooking flexibility: With all their different ovens and burner sizes there are many different ways you can cook depending on the situation.
• Large capacity ovens: One or two of the ovens of a range cooker will usually be very large making it easy to cook many dishes at once.
• Lots of optional extras: If you love to cook then you will no doubt be drawn by features such as teppanyaki grills, rotisserie and griddle plates.
• Freestanding: You can take your cooker with you should you decide to move.
• Easy to install: Unlike built-in ovens and hobs, range cookers simply slide in ready to be connected to the electricity or gas supply. 

Cons of range cookers:

• Pricey: Ranges tend to be more expensive initially when compared to some models of built-in oven.
• Less location flexibility: Unlike built-in ovens, range cookers cannot be set at eye level which could be a dealbreaker for those with issues bending down.
• Harder to achieve the sleek, minimalist look: Rows of matching built-in ovens usually look very contemporary, although there are some very eye-catching modern ranges out there. 
• Less suitable for kitchen islands: Kitchen islands tend to work best with built-in ovens and hobs.

Exactly what is a steam oven and is one worth buying? There are many different types of cooker to choose from and in the world of kitchen appliances it can seem as though there is a never ending stream of new gadgets and must-have features for us to squeeze into our kitchen design.

However, while some gizmos are very much worth investing in – such as the best kitchen extractor fans – successfully making life easier and contributing to our overall enjoyment of cooking and eating in our kitchens, others are nothing more than expensive fads.

So, what about steam ovens? What do they do, how do they work and will they make the results of your cooking endeavours any better than with a conventional oven? We have asked the experts for all the answers so you know whether this is an appliance you need. 

What is a steam oven?

Unlike conventional ovens and types of cooker that cook food using dry heat in the form of hot air, steam ovens cook food using only steam.

They incorporate a reservoir containing water that, when heated, rises up and is released through a valve before being circulated around the food in the oven. The steam is at such a high heat that food gets cooked really quickly.

Why should you buy a steam oven?

Steam ovens have many advantages over conventional ovens, with the main draws for many people being the health benefits they offer, as well as the results they produce. Of course some of the designs are also really eye-catching so could help with your kitchen remodel ideas. 

"Steam heats the food directly without the need for oil, which can, in turn, lower cholesterol, and helps to soften food, such as vegetables and fruit, which makes them easier to digest," explains Caple's product manager Luke Shipway. "This enables you to prepare fresh food that will retain all the nutrients, which can be lost through conventional cooking methods."

"There are many benefits to steam assisted cooking," say the experts at Smeg. "Firstly, it is a natural, healthy way to preserve vitamins and nutrients in food. Flavours are intensified whilst food is kept moist. They can still crisp the outside of food and are great for reheating, of course."

Steam ovens also tend to cook food faster than conventional ovens, come in some very compact sizes for those with limited space and are energy efficient too thanks to the fact that they reduce cooking times — a lot of steam ovens are A+ rated.

"The addition of steam minimises the loss of food weight and volume during cooking," add Smeg's experts. "Bread can also be baked to a professional standard using steam. The moisture of the steam enables the dough to grow and develop during cooking, before the outer crust forms. This results in lighter and more easily digestible dough with an excellent crust."

Do steam ovens need plumbing?

No, there is no need for a steam oven to be connected to your mains water supply. This is because these ovens come complete with refillable water containers built-in.  

Do combination ovens have steam settings?

Yes, there is no need for a steam oven to only perform one function — if you opt for a combination or multifunction oven you may well find that one of its many guises is a steam oven.

Smeg's range of Steam Assist multifunction ovens offer many different settings, while Caple's built-in Combi Steam Oven also has a range of other functions (steam cooking included). 

A multifunction oven is a great option for those after small kitchen ideas or if you only have space for one oven (as opposed to a run of built-in ovens all offering different functions).

How do you clean a steam oven?

For steam ovens to remain in good working order, it is important to understand that there are a couple of extra steps required when it comes to keeping them clean. Most manufacturers recommend wiping all condensate off the interior of the oven after each use and emptying, cleaning and drying the water container to prevent limescale build up.

Additionally, steam ovens need to be descaled after a certain number of operating hours and will have a special setting to carry out this process which uses descaling tablets or solution. 

Are steam ovens expensive?

One of the downsides of steam ovens is that they do tend to cost a little more than standard ovens. That said, they are now far more affordable than they once were — it is possible to pick up a built-in steam oven for as low as £240. However, this would be for a very basic model, and if you want features such as pyrolytic cleaning, an A+ energy rating and extra functions you will be looking at prices of around between £400-£1,500.

There are so many types of cooker available these days that knowing how to choose the right model can seem quite overwhelming. Luckily for you, our guide is here to simplify things so that you can start shopping around feeling confident of the model and design that will best suit your needs. 

Kitchen design is made up of many elements, from layouts that make the best use of your space to materials that cut down on maintenence. Of course your kitchen appliances play a huge role in how well your kitchen performs too, as well as contributing to the look of the room — and the cooker is, perhaps, the most important of all your appliances. 

Here, we'll be taking a look at all the options you are likely to be faced with when buying a new cooker, from the various fuel types on offer to the newest innovations now making an appearance.

What are the main types of cooker?

One of the reasons why looking into types of cooker can be so confusing is that they can be split into so many different categories, including fuel type, configurations and how they are installed into the kitchen. 

In order to simplify things, we have separated these out so you can take a look at each on their own.

Gas, electric or dual fuel? 

When buying a new cooker you will be faced with three main fuel options: gas, electric or dual fuel. The one you choose will need to be based on the fuel source at your home as well as how you like to cook. 

Gas cookers: Gas cookers, where the hob and ovens are both powered by gas, are less common than they once were. Gas hobs are still very much the preferred option for many people however, offering instant, highly controllable heat. On the downside, gas hobs can be a little trickier to clean after spills than ceramic or induction. 

Like gas hobs, gas ovens heat up really quickly, but getting an even heat within the cavity can be tricky as they won't usually include fans. This means the top of the oven often gets hotter than the bottom.

Finally, if you decide to opt for a gas cooker (or dual fuel for that matter) you will need a qualified professional, accredited by the Gas Safe Register, to install it.

Electric cookers: Ideal for those living in areas without a gas connection, electric cookers have a lot going for them. Although ovens can take little longer to heat up than gas, the heat distribution within them tends to be better, thanks to the fans now usually incorporated to move air around. 

In terms of hobs, traditional ceramic hobs can be frustratingly slow to respond to heat adjustments and take time to heat up and cool down. However, opt for an induction hob and these issues disappear — they heat up and cool down instantly. Be aware, however, that if you are switching to an induction hob, you will need pans with ferrous metal bases. 

Dual fuel cookers: Dual fuel is a common option for those choosing a range style cooker. They combine a gas hob with electric ovens, offering instant heat up top and a more even cooking heat in the oven cavities below. 

"Dual fuel is generally the preferred option for those looking to invest in a range cooker," say the experts at Smeg. "This option is particularly advantageous as people can enjoy a gas-powered hob, whilst benefitting from the precise temperature control of electricity to heat the oven."

What is the difference between a cooker and an oven?

It might be obvious to some, but it is still worth explaining the difference between a cooker and an oven. 

The term cooker is most often used to describe an all-in-one appliance that combines a hob with ovens below. They are most commonly freestanding. 

Ovens, on the other hand, are usually built-in (beneath the worktop or at eye-level within a run of kitchen units) and don't incorporate a hob — you will need to purchase this separately. 

Should I choose a double or single oven?

The next decision you need to make is whether you need a single or double oven. This will, in part, come down to your cooking habits. If you rarely cook and live alone or in a smaller household, a single oven may be all that you need. This is also an option commonly favoured by those after small kitchen ideas. 

However, if you are kitting out a family kitchen, love to cook and entertain then a single oven might not hit the mark — in this case a double or even triple oven will be a far better choice. 

Single ovens usually have an oven and grill in the same cavity, while double ovens commonly include one main oven and a separate oven/grill on the top.

Of course, if you are going for built-in ovens and have the space, you could opt to install a run of two or more single ovens alongside one another — a sleek, contemporary idea that is particularly popular right now. 

Built-in vs. freestanding cookers: Which is best?

Most cookers (as opposed to ovens) are freestanding, positioned so that the hob is at worktop level, with units on either side. They sit on the floor and some have adjustable feet. This is quite different to built-in ovens.

Built-in ovens can either be fitted at eye-level or under the worktops. Although eye-level built-in ovens fell out of favour for a time, replaced by range cookers or 'built-under' cookers instead, their popularity has returned — and it is easy to see why.

Having your oven positioned at eye-level means no stooping to check on food or to take it in and out. Built-in eye level ovens are designed to slot into kitchen wall units.

"We've noticed a real surge in the built-in market in recent years — perhaps due to the continued popularity for open plan kitchens," say Smeg's experts. "The style and versatility of built-in ovens has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years meaning consumers have far more options when it comes to choosing built-in appliances. 

"They are the ideal solution for a majority of styles as they create a sleek and streamlined environment, while freeing up plenty of space to enjoy family meals and entertaining. The most popular configuration options tend to be an oven and microwave combination, but we’ve seen an increase in demand for extras – which are becoming necessities – such as wine coolers and coffee machines."

Freestanding cookers also have their benefits. Not only can they come with you should you decide to move on, but they also come complete with everything you need, including hob. They are simple to fit and often pretty cost-effective too. 

What is a range cooker?

Range cookers are a little different to standard cookers. While conventional cookers tend to consist of a single or double oven and a hob, the best range cookers are usually larger capacity with more ovens and five or more burners (as opposed to the more standard four.)

While many range cookers are larger in size than conventional ovens, there are actually many different size options, from 90cm wide right up to a whopping 220cm. Although there are compact range cookers of 60cm and 70cm in width, they tend to have only have a standard four burners, although some of these come with wok burners in place of one conventional burner. 

Although range cookers are often thought of as a more traditional option, there are actually some really striking contemporary models out there too.   

Range cookers can be electric, gas or dual fuel. 

"Lots of people love the look and style of range cookers — though styles have become more varied in recent years with sleek and sharp models now just as popular as the original 'Aga' style," say Smeg's experts. "The capacity within these ovens is also a big draw for those who have the space in their kitchen. A range cooker makes a real style statement in a large kitchen. 

"Most modern range cookers are no more expensive to run than other large modern ovens," they continue. "Most are also duel fuel – or come with a duel fuel option – so could be less expensive to run than a 100% electric oven."

What is the difference between a convection oven and a conventional oven?

When choosing a cooker, don't be confused between conventional ovens and convection ovens — although they look the same, they are actually quite different in the way that they work. 

Conventional ovens feature heating elements on the top and bottom of the cooking cavity. Convection ovens – also known as fan ovens – have these elements too but they also have a fan within them that acts to circulate hot air around the oven cavity, meaning an even temperature throughout. Convection ovens avoid the cold or hot spots associated with conventional ovens and are ideal in cavities with multiple racks for cooking lots of different foods at the same time. 

Some convection ovens – known as 'true convection' – will also have a third heating element at the rear of the oven. This means foods cook faster as heat is spread evenly around the top, bottom and sides.

"Fan ovens are a great choice for busy lifestyles as they don't require preheating, so your food can be ready in less time," says Luke Shipway, product manager at Caple. "Many foods purchased today let you cook at a lower temperature on fan heat, helping you save energy in comparison to conventional cooking."

Conventional ovens are less popular these days but they still have some advantages and many cookers will feature ovens that give you the option of both. 

In conventional ovens, the bottom heating element is the main source of heat while the upper heating element provides intense heat from above, which is great for browning. The centre rack can be used for all kinds of foods, from cakes to casseroles. This type of oven allows you to achieve different results depending on oven rack placement but bear in mind that food may need to be rotated to ensure even cooking.

What is an AGA?

When choosing a cooker many people ask 'what is an AGA?' This type of cooker has now been around for one hundred years and although there have been lots of developments they are still made from cast iron and are a form of heat-storage cooker that use radiant heat to cook food gently, preventing food from drying out. 

AGAs are very spacious cookers (although there are now a range of sizes from as small as 60cm), offering various configurations of multi-level ovens along with hot plates on top.

Although they were once designed to be on all the time, there are now models which can be switched on and off as required — AGAs are now all-electric. 

What are steam ovens?

When shopping around for a new cooker, you will probably see the term 'steam oven', but what exactly is a steam oven and why might you want one?

"Steam ovens allow you to cook dishes which are full of flavour, whilst also retaining the nutrients of the ingredients. They also work wonderfully at enhancing the texture of your food and preventing them from drying out," say the experts at Neff. "Steam cooking is also speedier than cooking in a conventional oven, particularly with larger dishes or batch cooking."

"Steam ovens are particularly appealing for those who entertain regularly, as they allow you to cook a wide selection of dishes simultaneously — from fish and vegetables to meringues, without flavour transfer," says Smeg.

Steam ovens use steam as opposed to hot air to cook food, boiling water in built-in reservoirs to produce the steam, before it is injected into the oven cavity and circulated around the food. Many models require no need special plumbing for this steam as they come with refillable water containers.

Although steam ovens are most often thought of as being built-in, there are also freestanding cookers with steam functions — such as the Zanussi ZCV69360BA 60cm Electric Cooker with Ceramic Hob from ao.com.

What are multifunction ovens?

Multifunction ovens, also known as combi ovens, actually make a lot of sense. A multifunction oven will usually allow you to cook either conventionally or with a fan, might have a defrost option, allow you to slow cook or even have 'fast cook' options. They are ideal if you have limited space for a cooker with multiple ovens. 

"Combi ovens are a great way to enjoy healthy, flavourful meals without spending too much time in the kitchen as they allow you to heat, defrost, steam and even grill with one appliance," say Caple's experts. "So, whether you're cooking a big dinner, need to reheat leftovers, or even make separate meals for fussy kids who want to try something different, a combi oven is a perfect choice. They use less energy and generate less heat than a regular oven, they make a great choice for apartments or small kitchens."

What special features is it worth looking out for?

What can make the process of choosing a new cooker even more confusing is the sheer number of 'special features' on offer. For this reason it is worth familiarising yourself with what they are and whether there are worth having:

•  Pyrolytic ovens: We've all heard of them, but just what is a pyrolytic oven? Basically, these are self-cleaning ovens — many cookers now come with a pyrolytic function. When activated the pyrolytic program produces high temperatures of up to 485ºC to turn food residue and grease into ash that, once the oven has cooled, can simply be wiped away. 
• Touch controls: Opting for touch displays on your cooker means fewer places for dirt to become lodged.
• Smart cookers: These comes with all kinds of technology designed to make life run smoother. Many smart cookers have Bluetooth connectivity that means you can connect them to an app and control the timers from your phone or another device to remotely manage cooking times.
• Telescopic sliders: Although most cookers now come with these as standard, do check that the one you are interested is one of them — they make it easier and safer to slide food in and out of the oven. 

If you are in the market for a new cooker, you may well be asking ‘what is a pyrolytic oven?’ With so many fancy sounding special features and optional extras now available in the world of kitchen appliances, it can seem like an overwhelming task to start untangling the various terms that get thrown your way when stepping into the world of kitchen design. 

Well, you can breathe a sigh of relief if that rings true for you because we are here to take the mystery out of one of the most popular types of kitchen appliance you might find yourself looking at — the pyrolytic oven.

The science behind them and what they can offer is actually not that confusing once you know what they are and how they work. Here, we explain everything you need to know so that you can make the right decision for you and your kitchen.

What is a pyrolytic oven?

Ovens these days come with all kinds of special features and extras meaning that understanding what is what can be pretty mind bending at times. There are ovens that can be operated remotely, steam ovens and even those that sense when food is cooked through — all ideal for those after modern kitchen ideas. And be sure to make sure you check out best kitchen extractor fans too, to install alongside your appliance.

But what about pyrolytic ovens? Quite simply, a pyrolytic oven is one that is self-cleaning, designed to take the hassle out of what is, quite frankly, usually a pretty messy and smelly job. 

These ovens, such as this one for £699 from Bosch on John Lewis, usually offer several different cleaning options based on how dirty your oven is and how intense you need the clean to be. 

"When you activate the pyrolytic self-cleaning program, high temperatures of up to 485ºC turn all the food residue and grease spatters on the interior of the oven into ash," explains Sue Flowers, Group Marketing Manager at NEFF. "Once the oven has cooled, you can simply wipe the residue away with a cloth.

"The whole process takes between one and two hours, depending on the degree of soiling," continues Sue. "On a NEFF oven, there are three cleaning program to choose from: 'light residue' which takes 1 hour 15 minutes; 'medium residue' which runs for 1 hour 30 minutes; and 'intensive cleaning' which takes 2 hours. 

What are the benefits of a pyrolytic oven?

Apart from the elbow grease you can save by using a pyrolytic oven, there are a few other advantages to this type of oven, including the fact that you won't need to expose yourself to any pungent and potentially harmful (to both humans and the environment) fumes and chemicals from traditional oven cleaners. 

“Pyrolytic ovens are a great way to save time cleaning your oven, says Luke Shipway, Product Manager at Caple. "Simply choose the required cleaning function and let the oven do the work for you — no harsh chemicals required."

If you are looking for energy efficient appliances (and who isn't right now?), you'll be interested to learn that investing in a pyrolytic oven could also help you cut the amount of energy you use when cooking. 

"Modern ovens with pyrolytic program are so well insulated that they are very efficient when it comes to electricity usage," explains Sue Flowers.

In addition, many pyrolytic ovens also come complete with other useful functions that share the same technology used for the self-cleaning modes.

"Our C2600 oven utilises this technology to provide our 'Pizza Function'," says Luke Shipway. "It allows you to cook a traditional fresh pizza in less than 3 minutes.” 

Are pyrolytic ovens dangerous?

Some people are, understandably, concerned that the very high temperatures achieved by pyrolytic ovens could make them unsuitable in households with young children, but thankfully this should not be an issue.

"Pyrolytic programs are safe to use as the oven door locks while the program is running and four panes of glass on the oven door ensure it remains safe to touch," explains Sue Flowers. "The door lock isn’t released until the program is complete and the residual heat has dropped to a manageable level."

How often should you use the pyrolytic function?

There is actually no need to run the pyrolytic function on these ovens every time you cook — after all, you would be unlikely to clean out the oven after cooking every meal on a standard cooker. 

"Pyrolytic cleaning is not intended for regular use, but rather for deep cleans once every six to 12 months, depending on how dirty the oven gets," confirms Sue Flowers of NEFF. "As such, all NEFF Pyrolytic self-cleaning ovens also come with EasyClean, which is a handy in-between clean for lightly soiled ovens. Add water and a drop of liquid detergent to the base pan and the EasyClean program will soften baked-on residue so it can be wiped away."

Are pyrolytic ovens expensive?

These days, pyrolytic ovens are actually pretty commonplace meaning that you should have to pay through the nose to get one. In fact, it is possible to find single oven models for under £300, like this Indesit one for £289 or this Candy one for £309 on AO. Of course, it is also possible to spend thousands of pounds on a top of the range model of the same size, although for this you should expect other features to be included too, such as steam and convection settings, as well as some level of smart technology, like this smart pyrolytic oven that can be operated from your phone from Samsung for £1,899 on John Lewis. 

What other special features should I look out for when buying an oven?

In addition to self- cleaning modes there are several other useful functions you should look out for if you are in the market for a new oven. These include:

• Convection heating: Conventional ovens use heating elements on the top and bottom of the oven and are fine if you are cooking food at different temperatures as hot spots are created. Convection ovens, on the other hand, use a fan to spread the heat around evenly — perfect when you are cooking foods all at the same temperature. 
• Built-in temperature probes: Ovens with these adjust their temperature automatically to ensure food is cooked through perfectly. 
• Steam ovens: These use steam, rather that hot air, to cook food, resulting in beautifully moist end results. Some ovens combine conventional cooking with steam, while others only cook using the steam function. 
• Smart ovens: The level of technology used with these ovens varies, but you can expect a smart oven to allow you to control it wherever you are, from an app on your smart devices. They may also detect when food is cooking too fast and adjust the temperature accordingly. 

When I first purchased my house three years ago, it was a full-on renovation project. 

It was a four-bedroom detached period house but the eighties had not been kind to it and the house came complete with Harlequin avocado bathroom suite, fake pine kitchen with laminated tile flooring and decades of grime. 

The previous owners had taken the 60cm-wide electric cooker and given all the renovation work ahead, I didn't want to splash out on a replacement ahead of ripping everything out and eventually installing a smart gas 90cm-wide range cooker in a more sensible location.

In the early days, in the absence of a cooker, I used a second-hand electric portable hob like this £21.95 one on Amazon. It worked but after a while, the lack of oven and having only one hob did have its downsides when cooking for more than just myself. 

The long-term solution was a stroke of genius from a family member ⁠— a nifty mini portable cooker. And it was so handy that I ended up spending THREE years cooking on it, only recently decommissioning it for a permanent gas range cooker. The one I purchased was a Beko mini cooker with two hobs on the top. This particular model has been discontinued but you can still buy this similar one from Russel Hobbs or this one from Cooks Professional where you can see into the oven, both on Amazon.

Here's why I highly recommend anyone investing in a mini cooker if you're renovating a house while living in your home. I'll certainly be keeping mine in the cupboard, ready for my next renovation or self build project.

You can position your mobile kitchen anywhere

Initially, the mini cooker was simply a cheap oven that I positioned on the old laminate countertop. But when I had raised the funds to rip out the old kitchen and fit a new one, it was simple to move my drop-leaf dining table into the hallway and pop the mini cooker on top, beside a plastic washing up bowl for dirty dishes. A temporary setup those who have to renovate on a budget might also want to consider.

The mini cooker was repositioned again several more times as my new kitchen, which was actually a second hand in-frame kitchen, was installed. It took a long time for the quartz countertop to arrive so the mini cooker sat on some old granite for a while.  

Then there were issues with getting new jets for the second hand range cooker to convert it to bottled gas...  then getting the LPG gas connected.... It all took time and having a little mini cooker that could adapt to a frequently changing situation was a lifesaver.

I cooked a few roast dinners in it

You can fry, boil, oven bake and grill with most mini cookers. In the three years I had my little mini cooker in operation, I cooked all sorts of things on it, including several roast dinners. You won't fit a Christmas turkey in it but you can fit a whole chicken. The key thing is that doing so takes far longer than with a larger, conventional size oven so you will need to start cooking earlier. 

The top two electric hobs also operate at a lower heat than a gas or induction hob, so it's worthwhile boiling the kettle for hot water to save time. To state the obvious, there are only two hobs, so if you want to cook Brussel Sprouts, boiled potatoes, carrots and gravy, you'll have to time it so the quicker items go on the hob last, while keeping already cooked veg warm in the oven. 

Some items don't turn out quite as well on the hob for this reason too. Poaching eggs for instance, can end up rather messy if you don't allow the water to get up to temperature, harder when the hobs aren't as hot. 

It also has a grill function inside the oven for bacon or halloumi and sweet chilli sandwiches, essential building work fodder.

Deals on mini cookers for Black Friday

There's a real range of prices on mini cookers, from a cheap £69.99 to a more pricey air fryer mini oven model. There are some cracking cut price deals for Black Friday too, with up to 20% off in the deals we've seen so far.

Choosing the right types of cooker hood to suit your needs and the way in which you use your kitchen is hugely important when it comes to your enjoyment of this space — pick the wrong model and not only could it jar with the overall look of your kitchen design, but it will also mean it could be full of steam and cooking odours. 

Certain kitchen appliances are non-negotiable — and cooker hoods most definitely fall into this category. Selecting from the array of models now available and understanding all the various optional extras and special functions that will be offered can be pretty confusing.

This is where our guide to types of cooker hood will come in handy. We are here to take you through the most common designs and explain what each variety could offer you, so you can feel confident that the final choice you make will fulfil all your needs.

Types of cooker hood: Ducted or recirculation?

The first choice you will need to make when choosing a cooker hood will be whether a ducted cooker hood or a recirculation model will be best for you. 

Both styles come in a range of designs and are suitable for all kinds of kitchens, but they do work in quite different ways, with each having their pros and cons.

• Ducted cooker hoods: This style of cooker hood is installed along with a run of ducting fitted within the ceiling, wall or the floor and leading to outside. They suck up steam and stale air and expel it externally. 
• Recirculation cooker hoods: These take the steam, grease and odour-filled air in your kitchen and run it through an integral filter before returning the purified air back into the room. 

Note that some of the best kitchen extractor fans can be used as both ducted or recirculation models. Both types also contain a grease filter which will require periodic cleaning, but recirculating cooker hoods will also require an additional carbon or charcoal filter, which will need replacing from time to time. 

So, which is right for you?

Recirculation cooker hoods tend not to be quite as effective at removing stale air as quickly as ducted models and are often a little noisier too. That said, they are easier to install and usually cheaper to buy.

Ducted models might be the more effective of the two, but buying the necessary ducting (which can be either flexible or rigid) will add to costs — plus you will need to figure out where to run it to outside. 

Once you have decided whether a ducted or recirculation model will be best for your needs, it is time to choose from the various designs around, of which there are quite a few. 

Integrated cooker hoods

Also known as built-in cooker hoods, this style is great if it is a sleek, minimalist look you are aiming for in your kitchen design. 

Integrated cooker hoods can be built into the cabinets above your hob to match the rest of your units, or within a decorative cabinet. It is possible to find this style in both recirculating and ducted models.

Due to their often more compact size, they are not always suitable for those with very large hobs, although a range of sizes are available.

Visor cooker hoods

Despite falling from favour a little in more recent years, visor cooker hoods are a great, affordable option that are ideal for those after small kitchen ideas, often being more compact in size and easily fitting under wall units — something you will need to bear in mind when fitting a kitchen if you opt for this model. 

They are wall-mounted, usually slotting in beneath an overhead kitchen unit, and come with a visor section at the front which can be pulled out to extend their size — often, sliding out this visor turns the hood on. 

They come as both recirculation and ducted models. 

Chimney cooker hoods

Chimney hoods are incredibly popular, available in styles that suit both those after modern kitchen ideas as well as anyone aiming for a more classic look. Many manufactures offer chimney hoods that match their cookers too.

Sometimes referred to as wall-mounted hoods, they come in all kinds of sizes — ensure that the hood you buy is either the same size or larger than your hob. 

This style of cooker hood has a wider section at the bottom and a chimney hood that usually rises up into the ceiling and conceals ducting within. They can either fit between wall units or sit alone on the wall. 

Island cooker hoods

When designing a kitchen island that will incorporate a hob, it is crucial to think about extraction.

Also known as freestanding (although free-hanging might be more appropriate) cooker hoods, this style is designed to be suspended from the ceiling above your hob.

They are often designed to make a real statement, commonly looking more like pendant lights than a kitchen appliance. If opting for a ducted model, a suspended ceiling will need to be put in place to conceal the pipework.

Ceiling mounted cooker hoods

Similar in many ways to island hoods, these are designed to be integrated into the ceiling above the hob for a sleek, seamless look. 

Sitting completely flush with the ceiling, they come in all kinds of sizes and, when colour matched to your ceiling paint, become all but invisible. As with an island cooker hood, a false ceiling will usually be required. 

Downdraught cooker hoods

Downdraft cooker hoods are one of the newer kids on the block and something you should definitely consider alongside your kitchen worktop ideas. 

Built into your kitchen worktop, they disappear down and under your work surface when not in use, rising up at the touch of a button. They pull steam and stale air across your hob then downwards through ducting within your units to outside. They are available as both ducted and recirculating models. If you decide to go for a ducted model you will need to consider where the ducting will exit — if your hob is against an external wall this shouldn't be too troublesome, but if you are fitting this style of hood into an island, you will need to take the ducting through the floor which can be tricky in retrofit situations. 

This style of hood is not recommended with gas hobs.  

Integrated hob extractors

These do away with the need for a cooker hood entirely. Also known as venting hobs, these include extraction vents within the hob itself. The vents are designed to be protected from spills and mean you can position your hob anywhere you like without thinking about where the hood will go. 

"Integrated hob extractors are a good choice in open plan spaces where a streamlined look is desired," says Jo Sargent, sales and marketing director at Franke UK. "These models offer powerful localised extraction that quickly removes cooking odours and condensation before they have a chance to rise and permeate the kitchen, and at the same time they blend seamlessly into a kitchen design because everything is kept at hob level.”

The latest innovations and designs in cooker hoods

Of course, the world of cooker hoods cannot escape the latest kitchen trends and this is a fast moving sector with new innovations cropping up all the time. The most recent and popular models are concealed cooker hoods and integrated hob extractors, but there are also some other special features to look out for. 

"After all the focus on pendant cooker hoods in the kitchen, there is now a significant trend towards hidden extraction, in which the cooker hood appliance forms part of the overall kitchen design," says Sean Drumm, MD of Falmec UK. "Concealed hoods often have more power than other types of cooker hoods and offer stronger recirculating and ducted out efficiencies. 

"So many new kitchens are now open-plan spaces where the whole family congregates throughout the day, so it’s even more important to install powerful extraction to ensure effective removal of unwanted odours. Not enough people ask about this aspect when they are choosing a cooker hood on looks rather than efficiency."

So what other special features and advances in cooker hood technology should we be aware of?

“The growth of open plan living and the time spent at home during the pandemic have driven demand for quieter cooker hoods," says Jo Sargent. "Look out for models with a decibel level of 55db or less for a more peaceful cooking experience."

And, of course, cooker hoods have not escaped smart home technology. From those with air quality sensors that monitor VOC levels, to models that can be connected to devices such as Amazon Alexa — perfect for following along with a recipe as you cook.

If you're planning a kitchen redesign, when choosing your kitchen appliances, you're almost certainly considering a new hob to match your vision for the space. It might be easy to pick one that complements your design eye, as they all look very similar. However, choosing between ceramic vs induction hobs isn't just about how they look.

Both are popular choices when buying a new hob, and understanding what the differences are is essential to ensure you make the right choice.

Here, we examine the pros and cons of both, along with their prices and running costs, to help you make the best purchasing decision.

Ceramic vs induction hob: How do they work?

There are key differences in how ceramic and induction hobs work, and understanding them will help you choose one over the other, explains Maurizio Servergnini, managing director at Bertazzoni UK.

"Induction hobs use an electromagnetic field to specifically heat the pan rather than the cooktop," he explains. "This enables faster cooking times and maximum energy efficiency.

“Ceramic hobs on the other hand use radiation to begin heating cooking zones, which then transfer energy onto the pan and then to the food," says Maurizio. A circular heating element beneath each zone is powered by electricity, which then warms the glass top. "This makes the cooking process slower but less energy efficient," he adds.

Benefits of ceramic and induction hobs

While both types of hobs are easy to clean, they can feature changeable cooking zones for irregular pan shapes (on selected models), and there are some features that make induction hobs more advantageous than ceramic hobs.

Benefits of choosing an induction hob

The popular induction hob brings with it a host of benefits, as Steve Larkins, kitchen expert and CEO of Kitchen Door Hub, lists below:

• Efficiency: Induction hobs channel energy directly into the pan instead of the hob, which can reduce cooking time
• Safety: Compared to other types of hob, induction hobs can immediately recognise when a pan is removed and will turn themselves off
• Cleaner: Induction hobs only heat a small area, so food spills can be cleaned up faster and are less likely to burn onto the hob
• Cooler kitchen: Due to the way in which induction hobs heat pans, less heat is wasted and therefore does not escape into the kitchen, keeping it cooler

Try these induction hobs in your home

Benefits of choosing a ceramic hob

Ceramic hobs differ from induction hobs, but they still offer plenty of benefits for users, as Steve Larkins explains:

• Even heat distribution: The ceramic surface of the hob distributes heat evenly, ensuring consistent cooking and no hot spots on the cookware
• Responsive: Ceramic hobs can heat up quickly and respond quickly to temperature setting changes, allowing for better control over cooking
• Safety features: Some ceramic hobs are equipped with safety features, such as residual heat indicators. These warn if a surface is still hot after use, reducing the risk of burns or other injuries
• Compatible with all cookware: All types of pans can be used with ceramic hobs, meaning that special cookware or specific materials are not required
• Easy to clean: Ceramic hobs usually have a flat surface, and can be wiped down with a damp cloth after cooking

Unlike induction hobs, which require pots and pans with magnetised bases, ceramic hobs will heat up any type of cookware – meaning you don't have to re-stock your kitchen with new pots and pans. The set cooking zones may also work better for some cooks.

They're also cheaper than induction hobs, making them a potential option for those undertaking a kitchen renovation on a budget.

Choose one of these ceramic hobs for your home

What are the disadvantages of ceramic and induction hobs?

Although both hob types will cook your food, there are some significant disadvantages to both which can't be ignored.

Downsides of induction hobs

• Expensive to buy and repair (though this may change with the right to repair)
• New pot and pans may be required
• Surface can be scratched

Although good deals can be found for induction hobs, some of the mid and higher-end models are still prohibitively expensive for many, especially if you include buying new cookware.

The glass surface is also prone to scratching if pots, pans or the wrong material is dragged from one area to another.

Disadvantages of ceramic hobs

• Not very efficient
• Can be very slow to heat up
• Difficult to adjust temperature once hot
• Less safe
• Surface can be scratched

"Ceramic hobs heat the full cooking zone, creating increased opportunities for heat to escape, as well as risking accidental burns," says Maurizio Servergnini, "and they only achieve approximately 70% efficiency."

Overall, the modern technology of an induction hob means it is better prepared to cater for busy lives where the kitchen is the hub of the home. Safety settings and a cool-to-the-touch surface will far outweigh any negatives for those with children or pets.

Meanwhile, the benefits of ceramic hobs do little to offset the practical downsides of the inefficient, long-lasting heat that comes with them.

Still unsure? Check out our guide to 'what is an aga?' It features a cast-iron top that gently cooks food.

Alternatively, gas ovens and hobs might be the choice for you if easy, responsive cooking is top priority. Although some of the best range cookers can also be specified with ceramic or induction hobs.

Ceramic vs induction hobs: Which is more expensive?

The question of which is more expensive in ceramic vs induction hobs will come down to priorities in budgeting. "Induction hobs will usually require more up-front investment than a ceramic alternative, however the former can achieve greater energy efficiencies when cooking," advises Maurizio Servergnini.

The price gap is, however, closing. A ceramic hob can cost under £100 (particularly when supplied as part of a package with an oven), but there are induction hobs out there which can cost from just £150 upwards.

If you don't want to invest right away, an induction hob won't be for you, but if you're looking for long-term savings, ceramic falls flat.

Which is cheaper to run induction or ceramic hob?

Induction hobs use overall less electricity than ceramic hobs, but require more when used for the same amount of time. However, "approximately 90% of energy used on induction hobs is transferred to heating the food," says Maurizio Servergnini, meaning that induction hobs are more efficient to run than ceramic hobs.

For instance, according to Trusted Reviews, an induction hob will cost £199.29 if used every day for an hour while a ceramic hob will cost £168.63.

However, when boiling a pot of water the induction hob took about half the time (4 minutes) as a ceramic hob, costing just 3.64p compared with 5.49p.

As such, as they'll be cooking food quicker, you'll be using them for less time, saving money overall.

Find out what other energy efficient appliances will save you money with our guide.

Which is better: Induction or ceramic hobs? 

While ultimately this decision will come down to budget as well as convenience, induction hobs have by far, more advantages than ceramic hobs, due to their more modern technology and efficiency.

Ceramic hobs, while still perfectly functional, fall down in almost every category when compared to induction hobs but might be the only option for those not connected to gas or on a budget.

"Personally, I found switching to an induction hob better than I thought it would be," shares Sarah Harley, assistant editor of the Homebuilding & Renovating website. "It cooked food far more quickly than I expected, and for me, the fact it only heats up when there is a pan on there makes it a no-brainer when you have children in the home. And, while the surface can occasionally get marked, I find Hob Brite (which is available online from Amazon) perfect for removing any residual stains or marks."

Deciding whether to go with a ceramic or induction hob is just one of the tasks when designing a kitchen. A hob will need a cooker hood to help remove smells and steam, and installing one of the best kitchen extractor fans will help prevent condensation and mould growth.

Despite being around for decades, people still ask 'what is an AGA?' While we may all instantly recognise their timeless design, the way in which they cook food and work remains something of a mystery for many people at the kitchen design stage of their project.

For example, many people often confuse AGAs with Rayburn cookers, which can be used as a method of heating the home, while others might not be aware of how much things have changed when it comes to the design and operation options that are now available when it comes to AGAs.

So, whether you have inherited an AGA in your renovation project and are wondering whether to keep it, or are considering buying one for your new kitchen, we are here to explain the ins and outs of this type of cooker, including how much they cost to run — plus we take a look at the alternative options out there.  

What is an AGA?

AGAs were first invented way back in 1922 by a Swedish physicist called Dr. Gustaf Dalén who was keen to find an alternative to the range cookers around at the time. 

They came over to Britain in 1929 and in 1947 they began to be manufactured in Shropshire. 

AGAs are made of cast iron and are a form of heat-storage cooker that use radiant heat from the cast iron ovens to cook food gently, preventing food from drying out. 

AGAs are spacious cookers, offering various configurations of multi-level ovens (which will usually include one 'roasting oven' and one 'simmering oven') along with hot plates on top.

There is a huge range of options these days, from compact models with just two ovens and one hot plate – perfect for those after small kitchen ideas – to those with a multitude of ovens for slow cooking, grilling, warming and so on. Many of the new models now have state-of-the-art induction hobs alongside the traditional hotplates too.

Do AGAs have to be on all the time?

Although traditional AGA models were designed to stay on all the time, this is no longer the case. This is good news for anyone that may have been put off an AGA due to the need they created for a separate oven to use in the summer months when it is too warm to have an AGA running all the time.

That said, it is still possible to buy AGAs that do stay on all of the time — the R Series: 24/7 Radiant Heat models, for example. While these types of cooker do not offer heating, the fact that they remain warm to the touch all the time means they do gently heat the room they are in. This means that users often feel central heating can be left off for longer. 

In the case of AGAs that are designed to be switched on and off as required, you need to be aware that the ovens can take up to 60 minutes to get up to temperature when they have been turned off — although most models are now programmable. This means you can set them to be ready for when you need them with a little forward planning. Traditional cast iron hotplates on these ovens take around 12-15 minutes to heat up — although modern models can be specified with induction hobs that instantly heat up and cool down.

What fuel do AGAs use?

AGAs can be fuelled by electricity, gas, oil or even solid fuel. Many models are now designed to be 'dual fuel' with electric induction hobs and ovens powered by gas or oil. Gas hobs are also an option. 

How much do AGAs cost to buy?

This very much depends on the model you opt for. At the lower end of the price scale lies the compact AGA 60 range which costs from just over £7,000. That said, prices for some of the largest models, with optional extras, can easily rise to £20,000 or more. 

It is possible to buy second hand reconditioned AGAs too and this can be a great way to bag a bargain — but do be sure to buy from a reputable source, check what kind of guarantee is being offered and don't forget to factor in installation costs if not included. 

Are AGAs expensive to run?

It is almost impossible to give an exact figure when it comes to AGA running costs — there are just too many variables, such as fuel type, the model you choose and how much you use the cooker. 

AGAs are certainly less expensive to run than they once were, thanks to faster heat up times, the fact that ovens and hot plates can now be used independently, adjustable temperatures and the way in which the newer models do not have to be on all the time. 

On AGA's website, they aim to provide a guide to the kind of running costs you can expect, so, for example, the R3 Series used on baking and simmering mode 24 hours a day on an economy setting is predicted to cost the user £20.69 per week, based on the average cost for electricity being 28p/kWh.

In terms of power consumption, their AGA 60, used with both cast iron ovens on full temperature continuously and with the hotplate off uses 82 KWH per week.

Are Rayburns the same as AGAs?

Although similar, no they are not the same. 

Rayburn cookers, now made by AGA, are also made of cast iron and feature various ovens with different functions and they can be fuelled by electricity, oil or solid fuel. 

The way in which they differ, is that they offer three different options: cooker only; cooking and hot water; and cooking, hot water and central heating models. 

Cooking and hot water models provide hot water to a home as well as functioning as cookers, while cooking, hot water and central heating models also heat radiators. 

Historically Rayburns, like AGAs were kept on all the time but, as with AGAs, functionality has now been separated so you can cook without having to run the central heating.

What are the alternatives to an AGA?

AGAs might be beautiful and, these days, come in a massive range of colours, designs and with an array of cooking functions and optional extras, but for those after an alternative, what are the choices?

If it is the multiple ovens you like the idea of, choosing a range cooker will be the best alternative. Range cookers come in all kinds of designs, from traditional models to super sleek contemporary designs, plus they come in many different sizes and can be powered by a variety of fuel types. 

In order to find the best range cookers for your needs, take into account your budget, the size and style of your kitchen as well as the way in which you cook. 

You should note that AGA is not the only company offering heat storage cookers. Everhot, for example, is a hugely popular brand offering a big range of beautiful electric cast iron cookers that are designed to offer great energy efficiency when compared to many other range cookers around. This is thanks to the fact that the cookers are designed to harness renewable energy, with a trickle feed electric design that can be used very effectively with solar panels and renewables.

According to Everhot, whose cookers are designed to run 24/7, when left on for 24 hours a day, with both the ovens and cast iron plates on and using their factory set ECO program, power consumption of their EVH 60 model is 75 KWH per week.

Content Supplied by Morsø 

With many of us set to revamp our gardens this spring to get our outdoor spaces summer-ready, owning the right barbecue grill can be a key step towards enjoying the great outdoors.

If you don’t yet own a barbecue, or you’re looking to update your model, knowing what to look for in a grill depends on a few factors. These are 5 things to consider when buying a new grill. 

1. How often will you use your barbecue?

If you think you’ll be using your barbecue regularly then you might want to invest in a premium model, one that will last you longer and has a lengthy warranty. Conversely, if you only plan to use a barbecue occasionally then it makes sense to buy a model that’s more budget friendly. 

2. What size is your outdoor area?

This is another consideration that could impact how much you pay for a barbecue. For example, if you have a limited outdoor space then a more affordable, compact barbecue might suit your requirements - these models also have the advantage of usually being portable. 

3. How many people are you cooking for?

If you regularly entertain large groups then you’ll want to buy a barbecue with a large cooking area. This is a rough but widely used guide to help you assess what size cooking area you need: 

• Cooking for 2-4 people: a smaller cooking area up to 1800cm²
• Up to 6 people: a bigger area of 2000cm² to 2500cm²
• Up to 8 people or more: a much wider area of 2500cm² or higher

4. Which type of barbecue do you want?

There are several styles of barbecue, including gas and charcoal grills, as well as kamados, smokers and electric barbecues.

Gas and charcoal grills tend to be easy to use and you can easily cook food at multiple temperatures, whereas kamado barbecues and smokers both deliver incredible flavour, if that’s what you’re looking for.

Electric barbecues, meanwhile, are well-suited to those without much cooking space (and those with a nearby power socket), or for those who don’t like using fuel.

5. How much storage space do you have?

Storage space might not be an issue if you’re happy to leave your barbecue outside all year and cover it up, but if you want to store it away after each use then you’ll want to consider your available space before buying a grill that’s too big.

Some larger barbecues can be heavy too, so planning how you’ll transport it to your storage space is important. For easy transportation, look for a grill that has handles or collapsible parts.

Morsø's outdoor barbecues have been made from robust and durable cast-iron, and their woodburning barbecues double up as heaters once the sun starts to set. Find out more here.

[Content provided by Morsø] 

Barbecuing food is one of the joys of summer, but you’ll notice that for those people who are obsessed with cooking this way, the barbeque isn’t packed away just because we’re coming to the end of warmer days. Of course, year round alfresco cooking is more common in parts of the world with more temperate climates, but with the right set-up, you’ll find that firing up the grill in autumn and early spring becomes a much more attractive prospect. 

Here are our top tips for making use of your outdoor cooking space for longer, using Morsø’s Outdoor Living range for inspiration. 

1. Build an Outdoor Kitchen Under Cover 

Outdoor kitchens are growing in popularity, and those which are built under cover, whether that’s a porch, outbuilding or gazebo, offer better prospects for year round garden cooking. Not only will it help shield your grill from the elements and keep you dry when raining and sheltered from the wind when manning the barbeque, but it could even leave some room for some alfresco dining too.  

2. Use a Wood-Burning Barbeque to Heat the Space 

Be smart with your choice of barbeque and you could end up with a design that not only offers cooking, but also heats up your space too. Morsø’s Kamino, for example, is not just a striking outdoor fireplace design, but can be fitted with the Tuscan Grill to double up as a way to cook outside too.  

3. Barbeque Outdoors, Eat Indoors 

The secret to barbecuing when it gets colder outdoors is that you don’t have to eat outside to cook outside. Grilling food is a great way to add distinct flavour and texture, but it’s not something that everyone has in their indoor kitchen. To keep barbeque in your cooking repertoire year round, you could even invest in one of Morsø’s smaller grills, such as the Balcone — a small scale electric grill designed to fit on a balcony with ease. 

4. Adjust Your Menu Accordingly 

The menu possibilities are endless when barbecuing, but making some adjustments to what you cook outside of the summer months may be a good idea. Quicker cooks such as more slender cuts of meat or vegetables mean less time tending the grill when the weather is less amenable, helping you avoid the temptation of leaving the barbeque unattended. 

5. Consider a Barbeque With a Lid

Rain and wind shouldn’t mean that you need to call off barbequing your dinner, but by choosing a barbeque with a lid or covered top, you’ll be able to create a controlled environment for grilling in more adverse weather conditions and stop your sausages getting soggy. Try a barbeque such as the Forno Gas Grande, Forno or Forno Grill.

When it comes to choosing ovens and hobs, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the choice available on the market.

When choosing kitchen appliances, consider how you like to cook to help narrow down your requirements — if you regularly cook for a large crowd you should consider a double oven or a run of single ovens. It's also worth considering the additional functions that you would make regular use of — from microwave cooking functions to self cleaning capabilities.

This handy guide will set you on the right path to choosing the best oven and hob for your home. 

(MORE: 10 Essential Features for a New Kitchen)

What to Look Out for When Choosing Ovens and Hobs

The majority of built-in ovens are electric. This is mainly because gas ovens don’t cook as evenly without an electric fan, but also because they tend to be more expensive to buy and have far fewer features. 

All good ovens these days should come, as standard, with basics — namely fan cooking and programmable timing. That said, it still pays to look at how conventional vs convection ovens compare. In addition to these there is now  a huge variety of enhanced functions to choose from. 

Microwave and grill functions are particularly useful, but you should also look out for others, including: 

 ‘

• Defrost
• Pizza
• Recipe: Allows you to programme times and settings particular to certain foods
• Rotisserie: For cooking meat evenly
• Temperature probe
• Steam: To lock in moisture — ideal for certain foods that tend to dry out
• Self-cleaning

Despite the popularity of electric ovens, gas hobs are still the favoured choice, as gas offers excellent, instant heat control. However, induction is close on its heels.

Gas: Hobs are available both with removable racks and as sealed burners — which are more expensive but easier to clean. Opt for a model with an electric pilot-light ignition.

Induction: Magnetic induction hobs are an excellent choice; they are more energy efficient than gas and twice as fast to adjust to temperature changes. However, induction hobs are more expensive to buy and will only allow the use of pans made from a ferrous metal.

Ceramic: Sleek, sealed ceramic radiant and halogen hobs are also options; they are not as responsive as gas or induction hobs but can have many handy features such as timers, sensors, switches and touch controls. They can even let you know when the hob is cool. They tend to be much cheaper than induction.

When choosing the configuration of your hob, opt for a variety of ring strengths and consider a wok burner, which has a triple ring and gives off heat very quickly. Thermal heat is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) — the higher the number, the more intense the heat.

How to Install Ovens and Hobs

Ovens are made to standard sizes, so they will fit into a purpose-built base unit, but heights can vary.

The base unit will come supplied with runners and the oven will have two corresponding sliding runners attached. Fitting a gas or electric hob is carried out by cutting a hole in the work surface, as per the instructions’ dimensions. Any gas connections must be made by a CORGI-registered installer.

Where Should You Position an Oven and Hob?

Avoid locating hobs near windows, as they are a potential fire risk to window dressings, and bright sunlight can make it difficult to see whether or not burners are lit. 

Both hobs and ovens should also be kept away from doors to avoid endangering people entering the room. Ideally, there should be 300mm of worktop space either side of a hob, and ovens need work space on at least one side. Hobs must only be positioned above an oven or base unit and not over an appliance such as a fridge.

There must be a minimum vertical distance of 650mm between a hob and an extractor, and at least 800mm to a flammable surface. Ideally locate the cooking surface near an outside wall where steam can be easily extracted.

(MORE: Cooker Hoods Guide)

Should You Choose a Single or Double Oven?

Buying a double oven makes sense for those with larger households and who frequently cook for crowds, allowing you to cook many different types of food at once or to keep food warm in one whilst cooking in the other. It will allow you to make much better use of the extra features.

Some people also opt to invest in a separate steam oven, which works by boiling water and blasting steam into the cooking chamber.

Some of the newest models of oven allow food to be cooked at different temperatures in the same cavity, meaning those without the space for a double oven can still enjoy some of the benefits of having two. 

Oven capacities are measured in litres (L). Single ovens have a capacity of around 50-60L, double ovens 70-80L. The standard width is 60cm.

What is a Self Cleaning Oven?

‘Self-cleaning’ ovens are a must-have for many people, as they take away the hassle of scrubbing by burning off the dirt and grease at a high temperature for a couple of hours; the ash is simply swept away. 

There are two main types – pyrolytic and catalytic – but some companies have introduced water-based systems which are more eco-friendly.

The best range cooker is well worth tracking down, despite generally being higher in price than a standard oven. Not only do they look great (some of the classic models are available in eye-popping shades) but they also offer a flexible way of cooking.

While range cookers are traditionally thought to take up a lot of room, you can now buy them in a variety of sizes – from models worthy of a professional kitchen to those suited to more compact spaces.

Style-wise, there is a range cooker to suit everyone. Owners of period or traditional-style homes might prefer a classic range, but there are also some striking contemporary models available. Read on to find the best option for your kitchen design and budget, and discover why the Stoves Richmond Electric Range Cooker was voted as our top pick.

The quick list

Tight on time? Here’s a quick overview of the best range cookers, with jump links to more details.

The best range cooker overall

While everyone will have a different set of criteria when it comes to choosing the best range cooker for their needs, we selected the Stoves Sterling Deluxe S900Ei as our overall pick for its reasonable price, handy features, and modern design.

Sleek and subtle in appearance, this model would fit in with most kitchen schemes. Looks aside, the instant-response induction hob has five cooking zones, features 10 power settings, and also comes with overheat detection.

The multifunction oven has 11 settings, including pizza and proving options, while the enormous-capacity right-hand oven, with eight shelf positions, should make cooking for a crowd a doddle. What’s more, this larger of the two ovens can be split into two separate fan ovens, each controlled independently.

On the downside, the oven doors swing right back on themselves, meaning they can knock into adjacent unit fronts. It is also limited in its colour options, so if you can’t find a shade to complement your kitchen, the Smeg Portofino Dual Fuel Range Cooker may be a better choice.

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The best range cooker runner-up

With two super-spacious electric ovens – one fan and one multifunction – the Rangemaster Elise 110 Dual Fuel Range Cooker should suit even the most ambitious cooks. It also features a separate grill, six chunky gas burners, and a wok cradle.

While the lack of a clock or timer may deter some, its classic and reassuringly sturdy good looks, along with a wide range of colour options (including stainless steel), more than make up for it.

The main oven offers seven settings, including one for defrosting food, while a handy storage drawer is useful for keeping plates warm or for additional storage.

Those who like to keep an eye on their food as it cooks might be put off by the solid-fronted oven doors, while others may see this as a point in the cooker’s favour, as glass can look dirty quickly.

Costing just over £3,000, this is one of the pricier models in the guide – the LEISURE Cookmaster Range Cooker is similar but slightly cheaper.

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The best affordable range cooker

With two electric ovens, a variable grill, and an air fry function with tray, the Belling Farmhouse Dual Fuel Gas Hob Range Cooker has so many great features that it had to make it into this buying guide.

Its sleek design would suit both contemporary and traditional kitchens alike, and it comes in three different colours to complement your style: cream, dark grey, and black. The controls are sturdy and easy to operate, while its five-burner gas hob offers instant heat, as well as a powerful 4kW wok burner.

The glass oven door allows you to see exactly what is going on inside, and the digital clock with timer is clear and easy to read. If you're looking for a model with Bluetooth capability, choose the Stoves Richmond S900Ei Electric Range Cooker instead.

Homebuilding & Renovating's editor Beth Murton has a similar Belling model in her home and loves how the multiple ovens allow her to cook various dishes at once, saving her so much time.

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The best range cooker for big famillies

The LEISURE Cookmaster Dual Fuel Range Cooker is traditional in appearance and, despite its generous proportions and seven gas hobs, shouldn’t intimidate those who are put off by too many fancy features.

Notable qualities include its adjustable height, flexible shelf positioning, programmable timer and digital clock, and wok burner. In short, this is a fuss-free, good-value, family-sized range cooker with all the features you need and none that you don’t.

However, those with super-sleek contemporary kitchens might find its traditional look won't suit and may be better off with the Rangemaster option instead. For some, the position of the main fan oven at the bottom left, under the grill, may also be inconvenient.

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The best range cooker for small kitchens

Don’t let the classic styling and smaller size of this range cooker fool you – it boasts an impressive range of state-of-the-art features and is available in ceramic, gas, and dual fuel options.

Its two multifunction ovens offer settings for everything from defrosting to crisping up pies and pizzas. In addition to four gas hobs, the cooker also features a wok burner and a half-smooth, half-ribbed griddle plate – full English, anyone?

Other features that helped put the Rangemaster Classic Deluxe 90 Dual Fuel Range Cooker on our list include the swing-out roasting rack and dishwasher-friendly cast iron pan supports.

While its compact size is ideal for smaller kitchens, I would recommend that busy cooks and big families invest in the LEISURE Cookmaster option instead.

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The best premium range cooker

Those willing to spend more on their range cooker should take a look at the Smeg Portofino Dual Fuel Range Cooker. With a classic appearance suited to both modern and traditional kitchens, this premium model features two large electric ovens, each with multiple cooking functions, as well as a mixed-fuel hob.

The six-zone hob includes three gas burners (including an ultra-rapid one), a griddle, and two induction zones. It also comes with Circulaire technology, which ensures food cooks evenly and flavours don't transfer – perfect for those who love to host dinner parties with multiple courses.

Another handy feature is its closed-door grilling system – something missing from many other models. Not only does this make it a safer option for households with young children, but it is also more energy efficient.

If the price tag is out of your budget, the LEISURE Cookmaster Dual Fuel Range Cooker is a good alternative and also comes in cream and black.

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How to choose the best range cooker

When it comes to choosing the best range cooker for you, consider the following:

1. How big is your kitchen? Or, more specifically, what proportion of your kitchen are you willing to give to a range cooker?

2. What kind of cook are you? If you live alone and usually eat out, a range cooker might be a waste of money. However, if you like the look of them and are thinking about resale value, how about choosing a smaller, 60cm model?

"If you’re feeding a family or love hosting, you’ll want generous oven capacity and a hob that can handle multiple pans at once. Within most ranges, there are options to suit different styles of cooking," says Lucy Dunstan, range cooker product manager at Smeg.

3. What services are connected to your home? If you have no gas connection, you will be limited to electric range cookers only.

"Not every home will have the power capacity for an induction range cooker if it’s replacing an existing appliance, whereas a new build gives you the opportunity to plan this in from the outset. Likewise, some households don’t have access to mains gas, which will influence whether dual fuel or full induction is the right choice," adds Lucy.

4. What look are you going for? Stainless steel is a classic range cooker colour that suits all kitchens. Heritage colours, such as racing green, burgundy, white and cream look great in classic kitchens, while bold and bright shades, such as orange and yellow can really make a contemporary scheme sing.

How much do range cooker cost

Range cookers vary widely when it comes to cost. At the lower end of the price scale they start at around £600, whilst Aga’s and heat storage range cookers cost far more, averaging around £7,000 to £10,000. For professional range cookers you could easily end up paying upwards of £15,000.

In general though, expect to pay between £1,200 and £4,000 for a good-sized range cooker with plenty of cooking functions.

What is the life expectancy of a range cooker?

A good-quality range cooker can last 15 years or more, according to Lucy Dunstan.

"When choosing your range cooker, it’s worth looking beyond the surface and thinking about where it’s made, how it’s built, and how it will fit into your life for years to come," concludes Graham Duke, Sales Director at Everhot.

Want to learn more before you commit? Discover what a range cooker is and about the different types of cookers.

Cooker hoods play an essential role in our kitchens — getting the extraction right in your kitchen is integral to creating a healthy and clean home. Not only does a cooker hood remove odours, it can also take away grease and steam, making your kitchen easier to maintain and more pleasant to spend time in. 

What's more, a cooker hood needs to complement your hob and your kitchen layout, too — as well as fit the aesthetic of the room. Some designer cooker hoods can even become a design feature in their own right.

(MORE: Kitchen-diner ideas)

Choosing the Right Cooker Hood

Hoods can either take the air from the room to the outside of the house through ducting – extraction – or clean the air and then return it to the room.  So, your primary choice will be between:

• a ducted extractor or cooker hood, which requires installation with a series of ductwork that takes the extracted air outside;
• or a recirculation cooker hood which cleans the air over a filter and returns it to the room.

Some designs can work in either way, but this isn’t necessarily always the case, so check before buying your cooker hood. 

Both types require a grease filter, but recirculating hoods also need a carbon (also called charcoal) filter, which may not be included in the price.

Generally, extraction to the outside is preferable. However, it is also likely to be more costly because the ducting is usually an additional purchase on top of the cooker hood. 

It's also worth remembering that ducting is simpler to fit when you’re building or extending rather than refurbishing, when accommodating it could prove disruptive. 

What is a Recirculation Cooker Hood?

A recirculation model will extract grease in the same way as a ducted model – trapping it in a grease filter – but rather than port the air externally to remove cooking smells, it purifies the air with a charcoal filter (which needs to be regularly replaced), trapping odours, before venting the cleaner air back into the room. You may also find that some steam is returned to the room via this method too.

In general, recirculation models offer a reduced extraction rate at a higher noise level than ducted models — it is usually more efficient to port the extracted air directly outside than to filter it inside the unit.

That said, recirculation cooker hoods are typically cheaper.

What is a Ducted Cooker Hood?

Ducted cooker hood extract stale from the kitchen to the exterior of the property. As ducted extractors need to be connected to the outside to vent the air, there are some restrictions over where they can be installed.

You should be aware that most cooker hoods are not supplied with ducting — however, this is essential if you are opting for an extraction model. Ducting can usually be sourced from the supplier, but most DIY shops also sell kits.

• Choose ducting with a 150mm diameter as opposed to 120mm. 
• Opt for rigid ducting over flexible — the ridges in flexible ducting can slightly restrict the airflow. 

If investing in a downdraught extractor (one that rises from the worktop), ducting will run under the flooring or along the back of the kitchen units.

Choosing the Right Extraction

Different speed settings allow you to adjust the extraction rate depending on how much steam and odour is being created by what’s cooking. An intensive or boost speed is handy for pungent foods or if something is burned. 

A cooker hood should be up to the job of a certain number of changes of air per hour which make it suitable for you kitchen. All cooker hoods have an extraction rate, and you must opt for a hood that allows for six to 12 changes of air per hour. 

How to Calculate the Extraction Rate

Calculate the required extraction rates in cubic metres per hour – that is room volume (length x width x height in metres) – and multiply by six air changes per hour to match the level two speed setting extraction rate, and by 12 changes per hour to match the maximum intensive level extraction rate. 

For example, if a kitchen is 5m long, 3m wide and 2.5m high, the cubic capacity is 37.5m³. The extraction rate would therefore be 12 x 37.5m³, which is 450m³/hr.

“It’s not necessarily a bad thing to have a higher performing hood than you need,” says Sean Liddle, product manager, ventilation, at BSH Home Appliances. 

Avoiding a Noisy Cooker Hood

It's important to check what noise level (measured in decibels, dB) will be on the highest setting — especially if your room is open plan to the dinning or living area. It's important to check a cooker hood's product spec to establish the dB output.

The quietest hoods have a noise level of 50dB or less.

What Types of Cooker Hood are Available?

There’s a range of design options to suit both room layout and styles. Key types include:

Wall and ceiling mounted chimney cooker hoods These include chimney hoods with a canopy over the hob and chimney above that. There are chimney hoods appropriate for both hobs positioned on a run of wall units, and to go over an island unit. 

As well as models with the extractor canopy perpendicular to the chimney, check out designs that are angled or even vertical. There are also angled models that don’t have a chimney section on show.

Canopy cooker hoods are also wall mounted, and can be positioned below wall units, or against a wall that doesn’t have cabinetry. They're a discreet option.

Integrated cooker hoods If you don’t want to see the extractor, go for a built-in model that can be integrated into a decorative canopy or unit. Alternatively, opt for a version designed to be fronted with a panel to match the rest of the run of wall cabinetry, which is then pulled open when the hood is needed.

Island cooker hoods are designed to sit above a hob positioned on a kitchen island — where you don't have a wall to mount the cooker hood against. Look out for statement forms such as cylinders or cubes, and those that look like pendant lights or chandeliers, all of which can create a focal point.

Downdraft cooker hoods Located in the worksurface alongside the hob, the slim downdraft unit is raised for operation when you’re cooking. Bear in mind the need for base cabinet space for one of these.

Another discreet option now available is the two-in-one of an induction hob with built-in downdraft extractor. Check how much room the model will take up in the cabinet below — there are space-saving designs.

What Size Should my Cooker Hood be?

Cooker hoods are available in a range of widths — 60cm and 900cm being popular. Large 120cm-wide cooker hoods are available for use with range-style cookers. 50cm cooker hoods are also available for more compact kitchens.

Your cooker hood should ideally be either equal to or bigger than the width of the hob. If your hob measures up to 750mm wide, a cooker hood width of 900mm is advised. 

Hobs fall into two categories: 

• Cold hobs — this is where the heat is generated in the pan, such as induction hobs;
• Hot hobs, with a high-temperature flame, such as gas hobs. 

A cold hob works best with a hood that is wider than the hob, as the vapours disperse over a wider area. As such, you will need to specify a cooker hood which is wider than your induction hob.

Where Should I Position my Cooker Hood?

Cooker hoods should be positioned above your hob — or, in the case of downdraught extractor fans, directly behind or to the side of the hob.

If you're designing a new kitchen, do give some thought to where you place your hob and cooker hood. This is particularly important if you want to include a ducted cooker hood, as the path and size of your ducting will affect its extraction rate: a shorter route with fewer bends and a wider diameter of the ducting (150mm, for example) will provide optimum extraction.

What Height Should I Install a Cooker Hood Above the Hob?

Your hood should be placed at the recommended distance of between 650mm (for electric) or 750mm (for gas) above your hob. 

Although most wall-mounted chimney hoods and island hoods are adjustable, this is not always sufficient — and remember, standard cooker hoods will not work over kitchen islands.

What Cooker Hoods Work Best Over a Kitchen Island?

If your hob is integrated into a kitchen island you will need to specify a special extractor for this. 

“Where the extractor hood could once prove tricky when planning an island unit, the variety now available means you can opt to make it a feature in its own right or keep it as a discrete addition that doesn’t detract from the overall look,” says Tori Summers of Benchmarx.

You could also opt for a downdraft extractor, which can be installed into your island, or choose an integrated unit.

Cooker Hoods: Smart Controls

Basic hoods are operated via buttons while touch controls look smarter and are easier to keep clean. 

Remotely controlled versions allow operation when the hob’s not positioned where you can reach, for example in the ceiling. While smart hoods can be app-operated, or operated via voice control in some instances. 

Alternatively, consider a connected hob and hood, where the hob switches on and adjusts the hood, depending on what you’re cooking.

Some designs offer clean air-style functions, where the hood runs intermittently to help keep the room odour-free. Run-on timers where the hood switches off a set time after cooking are also useful.

Most hoods have lighting built in, giving task illumination. LED lights are the most energy-efficient option here. Some also offer dimmable ambient lighting, or mood lighting.

Also handy are filter warning lights, to remind you to maintain the appliance. 

How Much Does a Cooker Hood Cost?

Cooker hoods can cost from under £100 for simple canopy built-in designs, up to between £2,000 and £3,000 and over for statement designs and streamlined ceiling models. (These costs do not include installation.)

Downdraft hoods are generally over £1,000. 

Opting for a built-in oven instead of a free-standing model offers many benefits. One of the main advantages is that it can be positioned wherever you desire in your fitted kitchen, at a height that suits you, as opposed to a free-standing oven which will require you to bend down to carry food in and out from the low-level cavity. And, if, when designing a kitchen, you opt to have your oven fitted at eye level, it will also be out of the reach of curious toddlers.

Unlike free-standing cookers, which come as one unit with a hob included, built-in ovens require a separate hob, which again gives you flexibility in terms of your kitchen layout. The way that they slot neatly into units looks great and suits contemporary kitchens particularly well.

On the downside, the fact that oven and hob are separate can mean that you need a little more space to accommodate both, plus you cannot easily change your oven if you change your mind years down the line as easily as with free-standing. You will also have trouble taking it with you should you decide to move.

Gas or Electric?

Whilst not everyone has the option of gas, this will not be a problem when finding a built-in oven as over 90% of the models on the market are electric. The main reason for this is that electric ovens tend to be easier to control and ensure that heat is distributed more evenly.

Single or Double?

Really this depends on your cooking needs and the size of your household.

If there are just one or two people in the household and you rarely entertain, then a single oven should suit you just fine, although the option of a separate grill is always useful. Otherwise, double ovens ensure you have choices, and also make cooking foods requiring different temperatures and timings easier — not to mention giving you space to keep food warm whilst the other oven is in use.

How Much Space Do They Need?

The majority of built-in ovens are 60cm wide – the same width as standard kitchen cupboards – although the cavity walls can vary slightly in thickness, so do compare capacities. Their height also varies. Single ovens are usually 60cm high, so can either be fitted underneath the worktop or at eye level within tall units. Double ovens designed to be fitted under the worktop are usually 72cm high, whereas those designed to be built in at eye level are more likely to be 90cm high.

All the Mod Cons

As with everything in the kitchen these days, there have been huge innovations in the world of built-in ovens and no longer do they just cook food like the ovens of old – just take a look at conventional vs convection ovens if you need any proof. There are now all sorts of features and optional extras to choose from.

Some of the favourites include programmes which do more than just sound an alarm when the food is ready, turning the oven off when it senses the food is cooked or about to burn. 

One such model is the iQ700 from Siemens, which allows you to select a cooking program and enter the weight of the food, then automatically selects the best setting and calculates the exact cooking time, switching off when the meal is done, using residual heat to save energy. 

Then there are those which clean themselves, such as the B15P42 from Neff, which is a Pyrolytic oven that superheats to 500°C to burn off any deposits. This leaves a residue of fine ash which can be wiped away with a damp cloth. Neff also offers ovens with CircoTherm® Intensive, which is ideal for foods that benefit from a crispy underside, such as pizzas and pastry, offering a top and bottom heat. To make life even easier, look out for ovens which feature telescopic shelves, allowing you to pull them right out without them actually falling out — Miele offers a number of these ovens with its FlexiClip function. Finally, most suppliers offer ovens with child safety locks — perfect for those worried about young children.

Who Should Install It?

Built-in ovens will often be installed by your kitchen supplier if bought as part of a fitted kitchen from a specialist. Otherwise you will need an electrician or a Gas Safe-registered engineer, depending on your fuel type

In England and Wales, if you are connecting your new oven to an existing cooker socket, you will not have to have any kind of approval, but if you are installing a new power socket for the oven, Part P of the Building Regulations will apply and you should notify the Building Control office of your local authority, unless the work is carried out by a ‘competent’ electrician, who is able to self-certify that the work has been carried out correctly.

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Other European countries have widely adopted pellet stoves (in France, pellet stove installations are equal to the installation of woodburners) but so far, the UK has lagged behind. But with legislation regarding the banning of certain fuels coming into force, and the increasing interest in homeowners eco-conscience, there is an ideal opportunity to consider new heat sources, such as a pellet stove, for your home.

Here are three reasons a pellet stove is worth considering for your home.

1. Emissions and Efficiency

The popularity of woodburning stoves and biomass boilers for home heating, and the associated burning of solid fuels, have an understandable impact on air quality. The Government’s Clean Air Strategy and Ecodesign 2022 regulations set out tough emissions standards that all stoves need to meet regardless of where they are installed. Pellet stoves offer lower emissions than Ecodesign-accredited woodburning stove alternatives, making them a suitable choice for those wanting to future proof their home heating. 

Some pellet stoves are available with A to A++ energy efficiency ratings and certain models incorporate technology that means they are even suitable for use in a Passivhaus.

If fuel and cost-efficiency is high on your agenda, choose a model with a sensor inside that stove that helps to regulate the combustion air according to the amount of pellets in the burn pot. This, in turn, means lower fuel consumption, lower emissions and less frequent cleaning. 

2. Operation and Maintenance

When it comes to using a pellet stove, there are numerous benefits. Firstly, compressed wood pellets are easier to store (and take up less space) than the equivalent kW output of logs, which can be highly desirable in homes where space is at a premium. 

If you are looking for easy and efficient operation, choose a pellet stove model that can be controlled remotely via an app on a smart phone (or text message). Look out for models that offer separate room thermostats, this will ensure that a room does not overheat or experience uncomfortable temperature fluctuations. Using the app to control the heat production as and when you need it will help to keep fuel bills low. 

Many pellet stoves require little regular maintenance, be it emptying the ash on a weekly basis or refilling the internal hopper every two to three days. 

When it comes to installation, make sure your pellet stove is installed by a HETAS-registered installer.

3. Appearance

Pellet stoves offer an attractive and stylish focal point for a room, and are suited to both contemporary and traditional style interiors. 

Slimline models are available for smaller spaces, and the stoves can be specified in a choice of colours or claddings, including stone, ceramic and metal.

For more information on MCZ pellet stoves, contact Specflue. Specflue has a nationwide HETAS-registered supplier network that can install pellet appliances.