Info Hub: Kitchen
Double Ovens: Pros and Cons
If you choose a double oven range, you will be able to create your next multi-course meal more efficiently and easily. But how do you know if they're right for you? This guide can help you make a decision.
IS A DOUBLE OVEN RIGHT FOR YOU? PROS AND CONS
DOUBLE OVENS: HOW DO THEY WORK?
A double oven is equipped with two cooking compartments, and each can be set to a different temperature, time and setting. This means that one oven can be set to bake and the other to convection cooking.
A double oven range combines a stovetop with two ovens. Typically with this configuration, a smaller oven is situated on top and a larger oven below. Maytag brand offers a suite of double oven ranges, so you can cook multiple dishes at once with features designed to reduce meal prep.
DOUBLE OVEN VS. SINGLE OVEN
A single oven is the more traditional model with a rangetop and one compartment. These models come with useful settings and features and can work well for most families.
A double oven lets you prepare multiple dishes at different settings at the same time with enhanced flexibility and capacity. If you heat only one oven compartment, you’ll still have enough space to cook smaller meals. They also have a rangetop so making a sauce for your multi-course meal is no problem.
To decide if a double oven is right for you, rather than a single oven, you should consider how you intend to use it and your cooking techniques.
DOUBLE OVENS: ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
A double oven provides additional flexibility, but that doesn’t necessarily make it a good match for your culinary needs. Give thought to your kitchen space and preferred cooking styles and routines when deciding between a more traditional single oven range or a more advanced double oven range.
Let’s review some pros and cons to see if a double oven makes sense for you:
DOUBLE OVEN PROS
MULTI-TASKING
- Prepare more elaborate meals with the help of two ovens and a rangetop.
- Set each oven to a different temperature and setting to allow two dishes to cook simultaneously. For example, you can roast meat in one oven while the other keeps your potatoes warm.
Did you know that select Maytag® ovens includingdouble oven rangeshave True Convection? This setting uses a third element and a fan to evenly distribute hot air all around food.
INCREASED OVEN CAPACITY ON SOME MODELS
Double oven ranges sometimes skip the usual bottom storage drawer in favour of a larger bottom oven.
DOUBLE OVEN DRAWBACKS
Installation
Most ranges with two ovens are available in standard sizes (typically 30” wide), making the installation of a double oven in a single oven size cut out relatively simply. It is always important to consult the manufacturer’s installation guide to ensure that an appliance will fit.
CONFIGURATION AND FEATURES
- To maximize capacity, double oven ranges may not have storage drawers or separate broilers.
- Most double oven ranges come with a lower oven. This can make opening, closing, and loading more challenging.
COST
- Double oven ranges are typically more expensive than single ovens. That said, if you often cook large meals or dishes that need different cooking methods, then double ovens may be worth the extra cost.
HOW TO USE A DOUBLE OVEN
A double oven can cook multiple dishes at once, saving you time and energy and streamlining meal prep. While a single oven can accommodate multiple dishes at once, it’s difficult to find the right temperature, setting and timing to cook each dish as needed.
With a double oven, you can cook a roast at 450°F with the convection setting while baking muffins at a much lower temperature without convection.
A double oven lets you cook several batches of the same recipe, such as cookies for a bake sale. Using staggered start and end times, you can easily cycle through multiple batches. Make sure to load and unload batches at the right time in each oven, so that you don’t disturb the temperature in either compartment.
WILL A DOUBLE OVEN RANGE FIT IN A SINGLE OVEN SPACE?
Yes, most double oven ranges can fit in single oven range spaces thanks to their availability in standard range sizes. You should always consult a manufacturer’s dimension and installation guide to confirm that the appliance will fit in the intended space in your kitchen.
CAN YOU ROAST A TURKEY IN A DOUBLE OVEN?
Yes, it’s usually possible to cook a 15 to 20-pound turkey in most double ovens. Rest assured that a double oven can handle the cooking rigours of Thanksgiving dinner.
Most double ovens are approximately 30” wide though they can be smaller or larger. This sizing generally allows them to accommodate the same trays, pans and other dishes as a single oven. Compared to single ovens, there may be a shorter compartment size on double oven ranges. Still, most dishes should be able to fit in either compartment. Tall items, however, are best suited to the bottom oven.
DOUBLE OVENS: ARE THEY RIGHT FOR YOU?
A double oven is useful if you make meals with multiple sides and a dessert. If you find yourself tight on time, you can always cook a one-pan dinner in the smaller oven compartment.
An extra oven is great for school events, neighbourhood gatherings and big holiday dinners. Lifestyle is often the deciding factor when determining if a double oven and its extra capacity make sense for your family.
BUY DOUBLE OVEN RANGES
If this article has helped you decide that a double oven range is the one for you, click below to explore a variety of models from Maytag®.
