Maybe you’re renovating your kitchen and get to buy all-new appliances. Or, perhaps you went to turn the oven dial to preheat, only to find your kitchen workhorse has called it quits. Whatever the situation, you need a new oven, and it can be overwhelming searching for the best one. Our checklist should make the task a little easier.

1. Make sure it’s the right size

Do you love to whip up a batch of bickies for the office? Are you often baking large pizzas or roasts for your huge family or dinner parties? When selecting an oven, you need to make sure it will not only fit the pans and trays you want to use in it, but your kitchen. If you think you’ll need a larger oven, up to 90 cm might be your best bet, but keep in mind that trays will be heavier, and it will take up a considerable area in your kitchen. If your family is small, a 60 cm oven is probably fine, as it’s the most standard. For cosier kitchens, or if you prefer takeout to home cooking, 40 cm could be the way to go. Whatever you choose, make sure your cooking habits are part of your decision. Visit a home appliances store to learn more about your options.

2. Consider the best use of space

Look at your kitchen space and think about how your oven fits in it. Just because your old oven was under the stove, doesn’t mean your new one has to be. If space is limited and you have the flexibility of changing the layout, a built-in unit might be the best option. You can look at in-wall or bench units to save space, and place them higher to avoid bending. A freestanding oven is likely the easiest solution if that’s the type of oven you are replacing. However, this classic style may be less convenient, as it will take up more floor-space. Have a chat to an interior designer if your new oven purchase has you rethinking your kitchen’s design.

3. Gas or electric?

Another factor is the type of heat your new appliance will use. Gas is a moist heat and is usually better for roasts, while electric is typically better for baking. Gas also gives you more temperature control, while electric has significant lower-temperature features. There’s even a third option—induction. With induction, you’ll be using a magnetic field, instead of heat, to warm the pan, which is a safer solution for homes with young children. You should also research to see if your kitchen is set up for gas or electric. If your previous oven was electric and there isn’t an already existing gas line in the kitchen, you’ll need to hire a contractor to bring one in, which will add to your expense.

4. Do you need any special features?

If your least favourite household chore is cleaning the oven, you might want to opt for a self-cleaning variety. Other bells and whistles include pre-heat functions, warming trays, and fan-forced baking. Timers, shelves, rails, and windows are other considerations. Think about the features that are most important to you and your cooking needs before making your decision.

5. Energy efficiency

Although energy-efficient ovens might have a higher price tag, they could save you money in the long run with a lower energy bill. If you live by yourself or have a smaller family, you might look at models that are smaller and more energy-efficient to save you space, and money. An added bonus? These green appliances are also better for the environment.

6. Style to suit your existing space

Are you looking for a statement piece to add a pop of colour to your kitchen, or do you want it to blend in seamlessly with your current decor? If you are renovating your entire kitchen, you’ll want to consider how all of the appliances will coordinate. If you are only replacing the oven, think about how it will fit your kitchen’s existing style.

To select the best oven for your space, you’ll want to review these tips and then check out models in-person. Visit your nearest home appliances store or kitchen showroom to help you narrow down your choices.