Are double ovens worth it: Pros & Cons

Is having two ovens really necessary, or is it just a fancy upgrade? We’re here to cover the pros and cons, helping you figure out if they’re worth the investment or not!

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What is a double oven?

A double oven is a kitchen appliance that includes two separate oven compartments stacked one above the other. It’s designed to maximize cooking space and flexibility, making it a great choice for those who frequently cook large meals or entertain guests. Unlike a traditional single oven, a double oven allows you to bake, roast, or broil in one compartment while cooking something entirely different in the other.

Double ovens are often available as part of electric ranges or as built-in wall models. Some may include a storage drawer for added convenience. They are ideal for tasks like roasting a turkey in one oven while baking side dishes in the other.

How do double ovens work?

Double ovens work by having two independently controlled cooking compartments, each with its own oven capacity and temperature settings. This allows you to cook at different temperatures simultaneously, which can be a lifesaver when preparing multi-course meals.

• Upper oven: Often smaller and heats up faster, making it perfect for quick tasks like broiling or reheating.
• Lower oven: Typically larger, ideal for big items like roasting a turkey or baking large casseroles.

Double ovens can save both time and kitchen space by allowing you to cook more efficiently. They’re especially useful for homes that need extra cooking space without adding another appliance.

Double ovens vs single ovens?

Trying to decide between a double oven and a single oven? It really depends on your cooking habits and how much kitchen space you have. If you love hosting dinner parties or need the flexibility to cook multiple dishes at once, a double oven is a dream. But if you’re tight on kitchen space or only cook for smaller groups, a traditional single oven might be all you need.

Advantages of double ovens

• Cooking multiple dishes: One of the biggest advantages of a double oven is the ability to cook different dishes at different temperatures simultaneously. This is particularly useful during holiday meals, family gatherings, or dinner parties where timing is everything.
• Less waiting time: Instead of having to wait for one dish to finish before you start the next, you can tackle multiple parts of a meal at once, which cuts down on overall cooking time. It’s perfect for busy households or those who entertain frequently.
• Save energy: Many double ovens have a smaller top oven that’s great for everyday cooking. If you’re just reheating food or cooking a single dish for a small group, using the smaller oven is more energy-efficient than heating up the larger, full-sized oven. This can lead to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills.
• Faster preheating: The smaller top oven generally preheats faster than a larger, single oven, so you can start cooking sooner, which is convenient for quick weeknight meals.
• Dual cooking methods: Double ovens allow you to use different cooking methods at the same time. You can use one oven for baking and the other for broiling, roasting, or grilling. This can be a game-changer for those who enjoy complex recipes that require varied cooking techniques.
• Keep food warm: Some double ovens offer a warming feature in one of the ovens, which allows you to keep food warm while waiting for the rest of the meal to finish. This is perfect for when your timing is off or when certain parts of the meal finish early.

Read more: Cooking Efficiently In Your Oven: 10 Tips And Tricks

Disadvantages of a double oven

1. Space: Double ovens can take up more space in your kitchen. Depending on the layout, you may need to sacrifice cabinet or counter space to accommodate a double oven. This can be especially challenging in smaller kitchens where space is already at a premium.
2. Cost: The space needed for a double oven may require modifications to your kitchen for wall ovens, such as custom cabinetry, adding more electrical capacity, or reconfiguring appliances, all of which can add to the installation cost.
3. Upfront investment: Double ovens tend to cost more than single ovens, with some high-end models being particularly expensive. If you’re renovating your kitchen or upgrading appliances on a budget, a double oven might be a significant investment.
4. Maintenance: Two ovens mean double the upkeep and potential repair costs if something goes wrong. Cleaning two ovens can also be more time-consuming.
5. Usage: If you don’t cook elaborate meals regularly, or if your household is small, you might find that a second oven doesn’t get enough use to justify the cost and space it takes up.

Who benefits the most from double ovens?

• Families who cook large meals frequently or host gatherings.
• Baking enthusiasts who often have multiple items in the oven at once.
• Households with busy schedules who benefit from the efficiency of cooking several dishes at the same time.

Read more: A complete guide to oven rack placement for every type of baked good

When a single oven might be better

• Small kitchens: If your kitchen is compact or lacks the space for a larger appliance, a single oven will fit more easily into your layout. You can use the saved space for other essential kitchen items or maximize your cabinetry for storage.
• Budget considerations: If you’re trying to stick to a budget, a high-quality single oven could be a more cost-effective option, especially if you don’t need the versatility that a double oven provides.
• Cooking habits: If you usually cook for one or two people and rarely need to cook multiple dishes at different temperatures, a single oven can serve you well. You can always plan to cook dishes sequentially, as the additional time might not be a significant concern for smaller meals.

Read more: The Pros And Cons Of Self Cleaning Ovens

Additional information

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