The biggest drawback of gas ovens that are steadily receding into the past is that each of them can be evaluated according to the principle: bakes well or badly - burns the bottom, does not brown the top, uneven flame, etc. These are not all possible problems. The tabletop electric oven is designed so that it cannot have such disadvantages. The question is what functions, sizes and control methods exist for a particular model.
Modern electric ovens are functional devices that allow you to cook many different dishes
Content
The main technical characteristics of tabletop electric ovens
It is almost impossible to find a modern kitchen that does not have an oven in one form or another. Many people prefer freestanding ovens. This choice is due to a number of significant advantages:
- the ability to install in a place that does not require special training;
- the oven can be rearranged if necessary;
- certain amenities during use;
- comfortable control over the information on the control panel, since it is located almost at eye level;
- ease of care.
The compact oven can be installed anywhere in the kitchen
Depending on the purpose of use and in accordance with the technical characteristics, tabletop electric ovens for the kitchen are divided into several types:
- desktop mini ovens;
- ovens of standard sizes;
- mini ovens for making pizza;
- mini ovens with convection;
- professional mini ovens;
- professional electric stoves.
The variety of model options within one type makes the choice of an electric oven quite a difficult process. Dimensions, volume, power, set of functions and control method are the main characteristics of this subject of household electrical appliances. The issue of safe use is also relevant. It is necessary to possess certain knowledge in order to correctly assess the level of potential danger of a particular model during its operation.
Volume and power of electric ovens
The volume of an electric oven directly depends on its size. In accordance with the dimensions, the following types of ovens are distinguished:
- standard;
- compact;
- narrow;
- wide;
- mini ovens.
The size of a tabletop electric oven depends on its volume
The volume of electric ovens starts from 23 liters. The maximum size is 162 liters.Standard ovens traditionally have a volume of 60-70 liters. Compact ones are characterized by a capacity of 20-40 liters. The smallest tabletop electric ovens are mini ovens and mini ovens, which start at 5 liters.
Depending on the volume, the following types of ovens differ:
- spacious (the volume is over 70 liters);
- medium (have a volume within 60 liters);
- compact (volume no more than 40 liters);
- mini ovens (volume is 5-20 liters).
An electric oven, a small oven will consume much less electricity than a large oven. Depending on energy consumption, electric ovens can be of class A, B and C. According to their efficiency, the products are divided into classes A + and A ++. A class A unit consumes 20% more electricity than class A + electrical equipment. Ovens of class A + from A ++ similarly distinguish 20% of electricity consumption. The cost-effectiveness is obvious and essential.
The more powerful the electric oven, the more electricity it will consume
Oven power ranges from 1 to 4 kW. Therefore, this technique requires compliance with certain technical conditions when connecting.
Helpful advice! When choosing an electric oven, it is imperative to take into account the condition of the electrical wiring in the room where it will be installed. For a unit with a power of more than 2.5 kW, a separate wire must be laid from the electrical distribution board.
Power electric ovens affects the level of energy consumption. The advantages of this state-of-the-art electrical engineering are as follows: the higher the power, the faster the cooking process, less energy consumption, which means that the financial costs for power supply are reduced.
Main modes and functions
Modern electric tabletop ovens are characterized by a large number of modes that contribute to quality cooking:
- Convection. A fan is installed on the back wall of the oven, which evenly distributes hot air throughout the entire volume of the cabinet. The dish is baked equally from all sides. Convection contributes to the formation of a golden brown crust, which makes dishes more appetizing and pleasant to the taste. There are models where fans are equipped with additional heating elements.
- Wet convection (steam). Dishes cooked in this mode retain more nutrients, the products do not dry out.
The cost of a tabletop electric oven depends on the number of its functions.
There are models of ovens with two fans, two-chamber. You can cook two different dishes at the same time without mixing the smells. Convection shortens the cooking process significantly.
- Grill. Function for toasting and crunching. There are several varieties: small grill, large grill and turbo grill. The small grill is used to prepare croutons. Large for toasting large quantities of delicate food such as vegetables. Turbo Grilling will cook a chicken or large piece of meat. Oftentimes, a grill oven comes with a spit, which rotates to ensure even browning.
- Accelerated heating. This mode helps the oven to heat up quickly, which saves time and energy.
- Fast warm-up. Designed to warm up the inner space of the oven.
- Pizza. In this mode, you can cook pizza in a few minutes.
- Tangential cooling. Does not fog up the glasses, you can freely observe the cooking process.
- Fan. Prevents heating of the control panel.
- Timer. Stops the cooking process exactly after the set time has elapsed by sounding a signal.
- 3D. Hot air comes not only from the upper and lower heaters, but also from the annular - flow from three sides. Promotes faster cooking, in this mode it is convenient to dry vegetables and fruits.
The presence of convection in the oven facilitates quick cooking
Oven functions:
- Automatic program. This is a function that starts the cooking process after pressing one button that indicates a certain dish. The time and temperature are already programmed.
- Microwave. It is used for heating and cooking dishes.
- Temperature probe. Monitors and displays the temperature inside the dish.
- Thermostat. Regulates the maintenance of the required temperature in the oven.
- Self-cleaning. Allows for cleaning, after which the surfaces need only be wiped with a damp cloth or sponge.
- Locking the control panel. Eliminates the possibility of accidental clicking on the control panel.
To provide many modes, it is necessary to install additional elements in the oven, and, therefore, this requires an increase in size. An electric tabletop mini oven usually does not have a lot of modes and functions. But the main ones (convection, grill, self-cleaning) are in modern models.
Control methods
There are three types of electric oven control:
- mechanical;
- sensory;
- electronic.
Mechanical control is considered more reliable and is usually present in low-cost models.
Mechanical control is most often found in mini ovens. These are several knobs, with the help of which the temperature, time, mode or function are turned on with a swivel movement. They are located more often on the front panel on the right, sometimes on top.
The touch control option is typical for modern models. By touching the screen, the desired function, mode, time, etc. are selected. Electronic control is carried out by pressing the buttons, and the set parameters are displayed on the display. The control panel of the last two types is traditionally located at the top of the oven.
Despite the fact that touch and electronic controls are more modern and are installed on expensive models, the mechanical method continues to be used, moreover, it has a number of advantages:
- high reliability;
- affordable price;
- resistance to surges and voltage drops;
- ease of use.
The mini oven is extremely convenient in everyday use because it cooks food quickly.
Positive features of electronic and touch control ovens:
- original look;
- more accurate setting of cooking time and temperature;
- a large number of functions and modes;
- availability of automatic programs;
- the ability to write and save recipes in memory.
Helpful advice! When choosing an oven, you need to focus on accessibility and ease of use.
Electric oven manufacturers and prices
The Gorenje company specializes only in the production of electrical appliances for the home. You can buy an electric oven from this European manufacturer at almost any home appliance store. A wide range of prices, the use of modern technologies and time-tested quality makes the company one of the leaders in sales.
The Italian company Ariston supplies the market with a large number of household electrical appliances at an affordable price. Inexpensive models do not differ in wide functionality, but they are affordable and economical. Although it should be noted that premium models from this manufacturer are also in demand.
All well-known brands have both expensive and budget models of ovens, the only difference is in design
The price of Electrolux electric ovens is 5-10% higher than the average market value, but the equipment of this company is distinguished by an interesting design, durability and safety of use.
The popular Bosch brand mainly produces built-in appliances. However, small electric tabletop ovens with convection are in demand. They differ in build quality and a large set of functions for such models.
Zanussi household appliances, in particular electric ovens, are compact, which is important for kitchens of typical block houses. The prices for the products of this company are quite loyal.
The Candy technique is reliable and affordable. This company has such design lines as Maxi, Elite, Pop Evo, Pop Maxi, Classic, Smart.
Kaiser electric ovens are distinguished by a high price and a good level of quality and reliability. This German manufacturer pays special attention to safety. Ovens have the most complete and modern functionality.
Foreign-made desktop ovens are usually distinguished by higher quality and price.
Whirlpool ovens stand out for their ease of use and affordability. Interesting design, low price combined with good quality are the main characteristics of this technique.
Beko manufactures mostly low-cost models. The reduction in price is carried out not at the expense of quality, but by optimizing a set of modes and functions.
Related article:
Built-in gas oven: criteria for choosing the optimal appliance
Oven device, pros and cons, comparative characteristics of electric and gas ovens; overview of models from different manufacturers.
The price of classic electric desktop ovens starts at $ 150. The average cost of an electric mini oven is about $ 200. Any technical characteristic affects the pricing: volume, power, material of manufacture of various parts of the oven, etc.
How to choose the right electric tabletop
If a separate place is not planned for the electric oven, then it will have to be installed on the countertop. In this case, dimensions are of great importance. A large product will take up a significant area, so there is a risk that in the process of work, individual items will be placed on the oven. It is not aesthetically pleasing and unacceptable according to safety regulations.
If there is not enough space, an electric desktop mini-oven with convection is suitable. With such a model, it will be possible to save space, and the limited possibilities will not be felt.
Before choosing an oven, you should decide how much food and how often you plan to cook in it
Internal volume is of great importance. Before buying, you should figure out if the baking sheets of the desired size will fit in the selected oven. A round dish with a diameter of 29 cm goes into the oven with a volume of 16 liters. Telescopic guides are convenient for use. The door, which, after opening, goes into the niche, does not interfere with approaching the oven and installing or removing the dish.
Depending on the goals and desires, it is necessary to choose an oven with the necessary functions. If preference is given to a push-button mobile phone, so as not to depend on the sensitivity and whims of the sensor, then you should not buy an oven with such a control for the sake of fashion: constant discomfort and tension will spoil the impression of the unit's operation.
It should be borne in mind that for the option of an electric mini-oven, which has the functions of blocking, self-cleaning, a timer, auto programs and other modes of maintaining comfort and safety, you will have to pay a lot of money. High power will also require financial costs, but in the process of use it will save time for cooking and money for electricity.
An oven with a wide range of functions and good power will not be cheap, but it will save you time for cooking
If you love or need to steam - be sure to buy an electric oven with this function, even if you need to pay an additional amount. Children in the house - the control panel must be locked. It is convenient to cook two dishes at the same time - an option with two fans is required. You need to carefully look at the tightness of the door.
Helpful advice! When choosing an oven model, be sure to take into account the demand for functions. Using less than 70% of the capacity of the unit will inevitably lead to disappointment.
Electric mini-oven: option for home and summer cottages
Preparing several hot breakfast sandwiches in a classic electric oven is at least unprofitable. Electricity costs, cleaning time are not justified. For such purposes, it is more convenient to use a small oven. The small size and compactness of the installation make this option the only one possible for use in small kitchens.
The dimensions practically do not affect the availability of functions, it is simply necessary to lay less products. This oven can be removed when not intended to be used. Answers to the question: "How to choose a mini oven?" - there may be the same recommendations as for a classic oven.
If you plan to cook not very much and quickly - a mini oven is perfect.
The small size makes such an electric oven convenient for giving. The relatively low cost, ease of transportation, undemanding to the place of installation contribute to the frequent use of this household appliance in the countryside.
Helpful advice! Do not neglect the rules of electrical safety when connecting the oven for a summer residence. It must be plugged into a grounded power outlet.
Oven desktop electric cabinet in the interior of the kitchen
Having made the decision to buy a desktop oven, you need to choose a model that harmoniously complements the design of the room. For a kitchen with wooden furniture in natural shades, a light-colored oven with an enamel surface is suitable. For high-tech style, a more suitable appearance is steel, metallic. You can combine the design of the electric oven with other household appliances such as a refrigerator or hob.
Even if there is a mini oven in the kitchen, and it is not removed after cooking, it is necessary to select a certain area and surround it with objects that accompany the cooking process in the oven. If outwardly the mini-oven does not harmonize with other interior items, there is a feeling that the appliances are not in their place. And even the most expensive model of an electric oven with curly glasses and handles imitating scarlet gold will become a lonely item that does not correspond to the general style of the interior.
June Oven smart mini oven developed by Apple
A prerequisite for a presentable appearance of the oven is cleanliness. It is she who contributes to aesthetics. In such conditions, the cooking process in the oven will become not only convenient, but also enjoyable.
Tabletop electric oven: operation and care
An important point necessary for the longevity of household electrical appliances is proper use. Any tabletop electric oven, oven sold with instructions, which spell out the rules for installation and operation. Compliance with these rules will guarantee the full and long-term operation of the electric furnace.
Helpful advice! Before turning on, be sure to carefully study the properties of the control panel of the electric oven. Haste and frequent erroneous presses do not contribute to the preservation of the serviceability of the electronic component of technology.
Care is also important during operation. There are three main ways to clean ovens:
- hydrolysis;
- pyrolytic;
- catalytic.
Many models have a built-in cleaning function, which makes this process easier for the hostess
During hydrolysis cleaning, residues of fat and food are softened by steam. A container with water is placed at the bottom. The oven heats up and the entire volume is filled with steam. The softened residues of fat must be gently wiped off with a cloth or sponge.
During pyrolysis, fat and burnt foods are burned. The temperature in the oven must be brought to 500 ° C, under these conditions all residues will burn.Wipe down with a rag will keep the inside of the oven perfectly clean. This method is especially effective for ovens with the "grill" function, when the fat is rather intensively scattered. The disadvantage of this process is an unpleasant smell.
Catalysis is a special coating that prevents grease from sticking to it. Getting on such a hot surface, grease and food residues decompose. However, not all oven surfaces are coated this way. It is difficult to clean the guides, especially if they are not telescopic.
The oven must be cleaned after each use.
The electric tabletop oven with convection brings modernity to any kitchen. Electric ovens have greatly simplified the cooking process by taking over the control and regulation functions. The dishes began to look much more appetizing, separate modes allow you to prepare diet food.
The right choice is a prerequisite for the most comfortable use of the functionality of the ovens with a minimum of physical costs.
