Preheat shortcuts that actually work (and those that don’t)

Many home cooks look for ways to speed up preheating, but not all tricks save time — and some can even affect your cooking results. Here’s how to know what really works.

Shortcuts that genuinely help

• Use the Rapid PreheatA function that uses both top and bottom heating elements, sometimes with the fan, to heat the oven faster. or similar feature — this is designed to reach temperature quickly without compromising accuracy.
• Place your empty oven trays inside while preheating. They absorb heat and stabilise the temperature once food goes in.
• Keep the door closed until the oven beeps. Opening it too soon can drop the temperature by up to 30°C.

Shortcuts that don’t work

• Turning the thermostat higher to “get there faster” doesn’t work — modern ovens use thermal sensorsTemperature sensors that control the heating elements to maintain precise internal temperature. that prevent overheating.
• Starting to cook before the oven reaches temperature leads to uneven results — especially for baked goods and meats.
• Blocking vents or racks to “trap heat” can affect airflow and cause hotspots.

When preheating isn’t needed

For some dishes — such as casseroles, slow roasts, or frozen meals — preheating isn’t always essential. Modern ovens, particularly CATA fan models, distribute heat evenly enough to cook from cold with little difference in time or texture. For faster, more efficient heating, look for ovens with a Rapid Preheat or True Fan function. These ensure your oven reaches the right temperature quickly — without wasted energy.