Oven Guides & Advice

Need help choosing the right oven or getting the most out of the one you have? Our Oven Guides & Advice hub is here to help.

From buying tips and feature breakdowns to installation guidance and maintenance know-how, we’ve got everything you need.

Whether you’re baking, roasting or upgrading your kitchen, explore our expert advice and cook with confidence.

How to Maximise Oven Space: Smart Tips for Baking Multiple Dishes​
Learn how to maximise oven space with smart baking tips. Cook multiple dishes at once efficiently and evenly. Read our guide for practical advice.
Learn how to use your oven’s defrost function safely and efficiently. Discover tips, benefits, and features – explore CATA ovens today.
Can You Cook Two Dishes at Once in a Fan Oven?
Learn how fan ovens let you cook two dishes evenly at once. Save time and energy with CATA’s fan-assisted ovens – explore our range today!
Why Is My Oven Taking So Long to Heat Up?
Is your oven slow to preheat? Discover common causes like faulty elements or poor seals and learn quick fixes to restore fast, efficient heating.
Why Your Oven Smells When You First Turn It On
Find out why your oven smells when first turned on, what causes it, and how to fix it safely. Read our guide and get your oven fresh and ready to use.
The Best Oven Settings for Baking Bread at Home​
Discover the best oven settings for baking bread at home. Learn how to get perfect crust, rise, and texture with our easy temperature and baking tips.
How to Clean Glass Oven Door Windows | Easy & Safe Cleaning Tips
Learn how to clean glass oven door windows safely and effectively, inside and out. Follow our simple steps for clear, streak-free results.
Preheat Shortcuts That Actually Work (and Those That Don’t)
Find out which oven preheat shortcuts really save time and which don’t. Discover smarter ways to heat up faster and cook more efficiently — learn more!
Can I Plug an Oven into a Normal Socket
Not sure if your oven needs hardwiring? Find out if you can plug your oven into a regular socket and avoid electrical hazards. Read now!

Why use our oven guides?

Our oven guides are designed to make choosing, using and caring for your oven simple and stress-free. Whether you’re comparing oven types, understanding energy efficiency, or learning how to get better cooking results, our guides break everything down in clear, practical language. Written with real kitchens in mind, they help you avoid costly mistakes, cook more efficiently, and get the most from your appliance every day. If you want confident buying decisions and better results from your oven, our guides are the perfect place to start.

What are the different types of oven?

Choosing the right oven starts with understanding the different types available and how they suit your cooking style. From simple conventional models to feature-rich multifunction and steam ovens, each option offers its own benefits depending on how and what you like to cook.

Oven type How it works Best for
Conventional oven Uses top and bottom heating elements with natural heat movement. Traditional baking, roasting and simple home cooking.
Fan oven A fan circulates hot air for more even heat distribution. Faster cooking, batch baking and consistent results.
Multifunction oven Combines fan, grill, conventional and specialist cooking modes. Flexible cooking styles and varied recipes.
Steam oven Uses added steam to retain moisture during cooking. Healthy cooking, baking bread and keeping food moist.
Combination microwave oven Combines microwave power with oven and grill functions. Saving space, quick meals and versatile cooking.
Single oven One main cooking cavity with multiple functions. Smaller kitchens and everyday cooking needs.
Double oven Two separate cavities, often with different functions. Cooking multiple dishes at different temperatures.

By comparing oven types side by side, it becomes much easier to see which features matter most in your kitchen. Whether you prioritise flexibility, speed, or healthier cooking, the right oven type can make everyday meals simpler and more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

A fan or multifunction oven is ideal for most homes, offering even heat distribution and flexible cooking modes for daily meals.
Fan ovens circulate hot air for even cooking, while conventional ovens rely on top and bottom heat, which can create hotter zones.
Yes, fan ovens usually cook faster and at lower temperatures because heat is distributed more evenly throughout the cavity.
If you enjoy varied cooking styles, multifunction ovens are worth it as they combine fan, grill and conventional modes in one appliance.
Most households are well suited to a standard 60cm oven, offering enough capacity for everyday meals and family cooking.
No, modern steam ovens are easy to use and are great for retaining moisture, improving baking results and healthier cooking.