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.

The Ultimate Guide on How Ovens Work to Cook Food
Ovens are essential in most kitchens, yet many of us don’t fully understand how they work. Whether you’re a home cook, a first-time appliance buyer, or simply curious, understanding the science behind how ovens cook food can help you get better results. In this guide, we’ll explain the types of ovens, how they generate and distribute heat, and how to use them more effectively.
The Easiest Way to Make the Perfect Jacket Potato
Learn how to cook the perfect jacket potato with crispy skin and a fluffy centre. Quick, simple steps for oven or microwave. Try it today!
Side Opening Single Ovens Explained
Discover the benefits of side opening ovens, how they work, and if they’re worth it for your kitchen. Read our expert guide and find the right oven today.
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!
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!
How Self-Cleaning Ovens Work: The Go-To Guide
Discover how self-cleaning ovens work, including pyrolytic and catalytic systems. Save time and effort—read our go-to guide before your next upgrade.
The Best Oven Settings for Roasting Vegetables
Roast vegetables perfectly every time with the best oven settings, temperatures, and tips. Learn how to get crispy results – read the full guide now!
Learn how to use your oven’s defrost function safely and efficiently. Discover tips, benefits, and features – explore CATA ovens today.
What Is a Steam Assist Oven
Discover what a steam assist oven is, how it works, and why it improves cooking results. Learn the benefits and upgrade your kitchen today.

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.