How to Calculate Energy Costs

Whilst you would need modern technology to calculate a 100% accurate figure for how much electricity an appliance uses, it is possible to calculate a good estimate using simple mathematics.

To calculate an estimated energy cost, you just need three figures:

1. The first is the wattage of the appliance. This should be on the energy efficiency label if you’re looking at a new appliance, or you should be able to find it on an inconspicuous plate on the appliance itself, or, failing that, in the manufacturer’s guides.
2. You’ll then need to know the average number of hours you use the appliance each day.
3. Finally, you need to know the price you pay per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity. If you don’t know it, you should be able to find your rate per kWh on your energy bill.

Calculating the cost

Once you have the above figures, you’re ready to calculate the cost of running your appliance using our handy calculator.

Here’s how the calculator works.

First, it multiplies the device’s wattage by the number of hours your appliance is typically used each day.

Next, it divides that number by 1000. This converts watts to kWh, which is how you are billed.

Last, it multiplies this figure by the rate your electricity supplier charges you per kWh of electricity.

Example

As an example, if you have a 150W television that you use for five hours a day, this consumes 750 watts (150 x 5 = 750). You then need to divide 750 watts by 1000, to give 0.75 kWh.

Then multiply 0.75 x 24.67 pence (the current average electricity cost per kWh), giving you a running cost per day of 20 pence.

If you want to, you can then multiply this number by seven to give you the cost for a week, or 30 to give you an estimated cost for a month.

Current Energy Costs in the UK in 2026

According to Ofgem , the average household energy costs for the Energy Price Cap (EPC) period from 1 April to 30 June 2026 are:

• 24.67/kWh for electricity
• 5.74p/kWh for gas

Average kWh for Different Household Appliances

We used CompareTheMarket to find these figures.

Kettle

Energy usage: 0.11 kWh per use

The average kettle uses just 0.11 kWh of electricity to heat a single litre of water. Over the course of a year, most households will use their kettle around 1,542 times, giving an annual energy usage of 170 kWh.

Tumble dryer

Energy usage: 1.95 kWh per hour

How much a tumble dryer will cost you can vary greatly depending on the energy rating of the appliance. However, the typical condenser tumble dryer will use around 1.85 kWh of electricity per hour, and most households will use it two or three times a week.

Fridge freezer

Energy usage: 1.1 kWh per day

A typical, energy efficient fridge freezer that runs 24 hours a day will use 408kWh of electricity over the course of a year. On a daily basis, this is approximately 1.1 kWh.

Dishwasher

Energy usage: 0.91 kWh per cycle

The average 13-place dishwasher will use approximately 0.8 kWh of electricity per cycle.

Induction hob

Energy usage: 0.71 kWh per use

Induction hobs are easily one of the most used appliances in our kitchens at an average of 424 uses a year, and fortunately, a single use will only use an average of 0.71 kWh of electricity.

Electric oven

Energy usage: 1.56 kWh per use

Ovens are one of the more costly appliances to run, at approximately 1.56 kWh per typical use. The annual cost will vary depending on how frequently you use your oven and how long for, but on average, they are used 135 times a year.

What Affects the Running Costs of an Appliance?

There are a range of different factors that can influence how much an appliance will cost you to run, depending on the appliance in question. 

Cleanliness and maintenance

One common reason an appliance will use more electricity than you expect is that it is not clean or has been poorly maintained.

This is especially true with appliances that have heating or cooling elements. If the element is dirty or poorly maintained, the appliance will need to use more power to achieve the same output.

Both of these potential problems become more common as appliances age. The older the appliance the more likely it is that components will start to struggle or that there will be a build-up of dirt and debris in all the nooks and crannies.

Airflow

Airflow is another common problem that can cause some appliances to run less efficiently. Poor airflow can lead to appliances overheating, which, in the case of appliances like fridges, will lead to them using more power to keep cool; and that’s on top of the extra wear and tear that the appliance will face.

Settings

The settings you use when you run your appliance will make a big difference too. If you run your washing machine or oven on a higher temperature, it will use more power. If you run it at a lower temperature or use an eco setting, you’ll use less energy.

How Can You Get a More Accurate Energy Calculation?

Whilst our calculator will give you a good indication of how much energy you are using, it will not be 100% accurate. This is because there are loads of variables that cannot be easily taken into account.

As an example, appliances will not use the maximum amount of power all the time.

Many appliances, such as ovens, will instead use the maximum amount of energy whilst they heat up, and then the usage will drop down whilst the temperature is just being maintained.

In addition to this, the ambient temperature, weather conditions, the appliance’s condition and so many more factors can impact the running cost, making the use of a simple formula inaccurate.

Home energy usage monitors

The best way to get an accurate energy reading for your entire home is to use an energy monitor.

These can be standalone, or you may be offered one if you have a smart meter installed. The display should give you a live view of how much energy your home is using at any given time.

These monitors will be able to give you a running tally of how much your energy is costing you, but it can be tricky to determine how much is due to a specific appliance.

If you want to be really specific, you’ll need a monitor that does recognise individual appliances, or, a dedicated appliance monitor.

Appliance energy monitors

Appliance monitors are the gold standard in tracking how much energy an appliance truly is using.

Many of these monitors simply plug into the wall socket and then you can plug the appliance into the monitor. This gives you an accurate, live reading of how much an appliance is using whilst it is on or on standby.

Smart plugs

As an alternative to a traditional, clunky plug-in energy monitor, you could always use a smart plug.

Most smart plugs will be able to give you a reading of how much energy an appliance has used over the course of time.

However, it is worth remembering that this method only works for small appliances like blenders or TVs, and does not work for bigger appliances such as fridges or ovens.

Chef's Pick

Chef’s Pick is your guide to the best kitchen equipment and appliances in the UK.
We help you understand the confusing world of cookers, ovens and cookware so you can get the most out of your kitchen.

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Running costs, however, are also worth considering. While oven running costs are unlikely to break the bank, the cost of running certain types of ovens can be quite shocking.

So, let’s find out if gas ovens are cheaper to run than electric ovens, shall we?

Cost of Running a Gas Oven

The average gas oven uses roughly 1.24 kWh of energy per use.

To arrive at this figure, we looked at five of the most popular gas ovens in the UK and calculated the average energy use based on figures from AO.com:

• Hisense BI6061HGSUK – 0.97 Kwh
• Smeg Cucina AOSF64M3G2 – 1.15 Kwh
• Indesit IDG6GW – 1.44 Kwh
• Hotpoint HDG5GDCB – 1.25 Kwh
• Beko KA52NEW – 1.39 Kwh

The average gas price in the UK is 5.74 per kWh for the price cap period from 1 April to 30 June 2026 .

This means that the average gas oven costs 1.24 x 5.74 = 7.1 pence per use.

Cost of Running an Electric Oven

The average electric oven uses 0.89 kWh of energy per use.

To arrive at this figure, we looked at ten of the most popular electric ovens in the UK and calculated the average energy use based on figures from AO.com:

• AEG DUB331110M – 0.78 kWh per use
• Beko RecycledNet BBRDF21000X – 0.79 kWh per use
• Bosch Serie 2 NBS113BR0B – 0.8 kWh per use
• Bosch Serie 4 HBS573BB0B – 0.99 kWh per use
• Hotpoint Class 2 SA2844HIX – 1.05 kWh per use
• Indesit Aria IDU6340IX – 0.96 kWh per use
• NEFF N30 U1CHC0AN0B – 0.81 kWh per use
• NEFF N50 B2ACH7HH0B – 0.99 kWh per use
• Smeg Victoria DOSF6920N1 – 0.99 kWh per use
• Zanussi ZPHNL3X1 – 0.71 kWh per use

The average electricity price in the UK is 24.67p per kWh for the price cap period from 1 April to 30 June 2026.

This means that the average electric oven costs 0.89 x 24.67 = 22 pence per use.

Gas vs. Electric Oven Running Costs

According to our research, electric ovens are more than twice as expensive to run as gas ovens on average.

Even though electric ovens are more energy efficient and use less energy to run, they are still more expensive than gas since electricity prices are so high.

Electricity costs more than three times as much as gas per kilowatt hour, so it’s not surprising that gas ovens are cheaper to run.

The average gas oven costs 7.4 pence per use, while the average electric oven costs 24.6 pence.

If you use your oven once a day, here is how that would work out:

• Per day: 7.1 pence for a gas oven; 22 pence for an electric oven.
• Per week: £0.50 for a gas oven; £1.54 for an electric oven.
• Per month: £2.16 for a gas oven; £6.69 for an electric oven.
• Per year: £25.92 for a gas oven; £80.30 for an electric oven.

This means you could save over £50 a year by using a gas oven instead of an electric oven with today’s prices.

There aren’t as many gas ovens as electric ovens on the market these days, but they are still available and aren’t being phased out yet.

However, if you are buying a new oven, you need to consider installation costs as well as running costs.

Should You Choose a Gas or Electric Oven?

Gas is much cheaper to run than electric. However, this doesn’t mean that a gas oven is a right oven for you.

For example, if you don’t have a gas hook-up for your oven already, the cost of having one installed will likely be higher than any of the savings you’ll get from the oven.

You also need to factor in which oven you prefer to use. Some people swear by gas, others swear by electric. I can say from experience, having owned electric ovens all my life, that switching to gas in my first ever rented property was a big learning curve.

Electric ovens

There is no doubt that gas ovens are brilliant tools, but many of us prefer electric.

Electric ovens are typically a bit cheaper to install, and the initial cost is often cheaper than a gas oven. They also cook with dry heat, so they are much better for baking and roasting (although many gas fans will argue this case).

Most electric ovens also have fans nowadays, so the temperature in the oven is much more stable and consistent and food cooks more evenly. Electric hobs are also much easier to clean than gas hobs.

Of course, electric ovens do heat up a lot slower than gas ovens. In general, they take about 10 minutes longer to heat up than gas ovens. They are also much less responsive to temperature changes as well.

Gas ovens

Gas gives you much more control than electric. You can really dial in a temperature on a gas hob or oven, and it responds almost instantly.

Gas is less forgiving than electric, though, so burning your food is very easy to do in a gas oven. Gas cookers also tend to be a bit more expensive to buy and install than their electric counterparts, but budget gas cookers are available.

Safety is another concern with gas, of course, but all gas ovens have strict safety guidelines they must adhere to, so safety isn’t something that should factor into your decision too much.

The Pros and Cons of Gas Ovens

Pros

• Cheaper to run
• Precise and instant temperature changes

Cons

• Initial cost and installation fees
• Burning food if you aren’t used to cooking with gas

The Pros and Cons of Electric Ovens

Pros

• Cheaper initial cost and installation
• Easier to clean and maintain
• Consistent temperatures (in fan ovens)

Cons

• Delayed temperature changes

Conclusion

As you can see, both gas and electric ovens have their pros and cons, and it is really up to you to decide which fuel type you’ll prefer.

Gas is certainly the cheaper of the two ovens to run. They cost about half as much as electric ovens, and you could save over £50 each year by buying a gas oven, unless gas becomes more expensive relative to electricity in the future. However, it ultimately comes down to which oven you prefer to use.

We hope this look at which type of oven is cheaper to run has helped you decide which oven you’ll buy next. If you want to see the best gas cookers or electric ovens available in the UK right now, please explore Chef’s Pick further.

Scott

Scott is a writer and a passionate home chef. His passion for cooking began when he was 10 years old. Scott has been writing professionally for over five years now and loves to combine his passion for cooking with his day job.

The post Gas vs. Electric Oven Running Costs (2026 UK) appeared first on Chef's Pick.

Changing energy providers can be a great way of saving money, of course. However, doing that alone won’t help you save energy.

Knowing how much an electric oven costs to run may make you think about how you use it and may change your energy-using habits.

So, let’s see just how much it takes to run an electric oven in the UK, shall we?

Cost of Running an Electric Oven in the UK

The average electric oven in the UK uses about 0.89 kWh of energy per use.

To calculate this figure, we found ten of the most popular electric ovens on AO.com and calculated the average energy use:

• AEG DUB331110M – 0.78 kWh per use
• Beko RecycledNet BBRDF21000X – 0.79 kWh per use
• Bosch Serie 2 NBS113BR0B – 0.8 kWh per use
• Bosch Serie 4 HBS573BB0B – 0.99 kWh per use
• Hotpoint Class 2 SA2844HIX – 1.05 kWh per use
• Indesit Aria IDU6340IX – 0.96 kWh per use
• NEFF N30 U1CHC0AN0B – 0.81 kWh per use
• NEFF N50 B2ACH7HH0B – 0.99 kWh per use
• Smeg Victoria DOSF6920N1 – 0.99 kWh per use
• Zanussi ZPHNL3X1 – 0.71 kWh per use

Standard electricity costs are 24.67 pence per kWh in the UK for the Energy Price Cap (EPC) period from 1 April to 30 June 2026.

Therefore, the average electric oven in the UK costs 0.89 x 24.67 = 22p per use.

Based on this, here is how much your electric oven will cost you if you use it once a day:

• 22p per day
• £1.54 per week
• £6.68 per month
• £80.14 per year

Now, as you may know, these electricity prices will vary from oven to oven. In fact, the costs above will vary if you use the hob more than the oven.

Also, these costs vary depending on how energy efficient your oven is too. So, the figures above are extremely rough.

You should be able to find out the energy usage of your particular oven by searching for the model number online or looking at your user manual.

However, exactly how much energy you use depends on how you use the oven, for example how high you heat it and whether or not you open the door frequently.

How Can You Reduce the Running Costs of an Electric Oven?

There isn’t really a good way of improving the running costs of an existing electric oven. You can’t exactly cook things on a higher temperature for shorter amounts of time, as you’ll start burning all your food.

If you want to decrease the energy your oven is using, your best chance is to buy a new oven.

If your oven is five years old or older, it may no longer be as energy efficient as a new one.

Even if your oven was very efficient when it was new, advances in oven efficiency in the last few years might mean that your current oven is no longer the most energy-efficient model out there.

Of course, buying a new oven won’t help you save money in the short term! The only real way to save money and energy in the kitchen without buying all new appliances is to turn them off at the wall after using them.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, you could save around £45 a year just by avoiding leaving appliances on standby.

How to Save Electricity When Choosing an Oven

1. Consider the energy consumption rating

Buying an oven that has a good energy rating is a good way of saving money. Look for an energy rating of A on products released since March 2021 when the new energy rating scale was introduced, or products rated A++ or A+++ on products released before then. These ovens use less energy to heat up and retain their heat while cooking, so it means that your oven isn’t constantly using electric to keep the heat up.

You can find out the energy consumption rating of any oven in the specification section on most retailer websites.

However, a higher energy rating doesn’t always reflect a low energy consumption rating. Oven size comes into play too—smaller ovens will use less electricity even if they are not technically more energy efficient.

Still, bear in mind that you may only save pennies a week no matter how low the energy consumption is.

2. Keep the oven door closed

Another good way of saving electricity while you are cooking is to keep the oven door close as much as possible. Whenever you open an oven door, it allows the heat to escape, and your oven must then heat the oven up again. So, when you are cooking, keep the oven door close as much as possible.

3. Use cookware that heats up quick and retains heat

Saving electricity on the hob is difficult. You can use cookware that holds heat in really well or use really thin cookware, so it heats up nice and quickly.

There are drawbacks to both types of cookware, though. For example, using cookware that holds heat nicely, cast iron cookware, for example, means that there is a longer wait time for it to reach a good temperature.

Using cookware that is thinner means that it will heat up faster, but the cookware won’t hold the heat in as well so you will need to keep the temperature of your hob higher.

So, in the case of the hob, it can be very tricky to make any notable savings by changing cookware. Instead, it is better to buy a more energy-efficient hob.

Scott

Scott is a writer and a passionate home chef. His passion for cooking began when he was 10 years old. Scott has been writing professionally for over five years now and loves to combine his passion for cooking with his day job.

The post How Much Does an Electric Oven Cost to Run in the UK? (2026) appeared first on Chef's Pick.

The average electric oven has a power rating of around 3 kW on full power, while the average mini oven has a power rating of around 1.75 kW.

Average electricity prices in the UK are 24.67 pence for the period from 1 April to 30 June 2026 .

Therefore, if you ran the average electric oven at full power for an hour, it would cost 3 x 24.67 = 74 pence.

If you ran the average mini oven at full power for an hour, it would cost 1.75 x 24.67 = 43 pence.

As well as being cheaper to run per hour, mini ovens also heat up a lot faster than standard electric ovens. This is mainly because the space that needs heating up is a lot smaller. This means you spend less time waiting for the oven to heat up, and this does help save some money too.

Installation Costs

Most electric ovens need to be installed by a qualified engineer. This means that you must factor those installation costs into the cost of the cooker.

Installation costs for a standard electric cooker can range from £50-£100. That is the price of a mini oven! A mini oven doesn’t need to be installed because they have a standard UK plug that will work in any socket in your kitchen.

Purchase Cost

Mini ovens start from around about £50 and can reach over £200 for very high-end models with every cooking function you could need.

The cheapest electric cooker we could find while researching this article was £199. If you’re looking for a really high-end electric oven though, you’re looking at over a thousand pounds.

We aren’t saying that mini ovens are for everyone. A lot of us love our big ovens and could never part with them because we can cook our dinner, prep our lunches for the week and even grill a quick snack as we do it.

However, if a mini oven suits your way of life, perhaps you want to save space in your kitchen, or you live alone and simply don’t need a massive oven, the cost benefits are actually very impressive.

Not only are mini ovens far cheaper to run, but they are also cheaper to buy, and you don’t need someone to install one either.

We hope this look at mini ovens and how cheap they are to run has been helpful. See our list of the best countertop mini ovens if you need help choosing one!

Scott

Scott is a writer and a passionate home chef. His passion for cooking began when he was 10 years old. Scott has been writing professionally for over five years now and loves to combine his passion for cooking with his day job.

The post Are Mini Ovens Cheaper to Run? appeared first on Chef's Pick.

From heavy cleaning chemicals and the manpower required to remove stubborn dirt, it is no wonder people are letting their ovens get a little dirtier than they should.

But thankfully, there is a solution: the self-cleaning pyrolytic oven.

These ovens do what they say on the tin. They take the awful task of oven cleaning out of your hands! But in doing so, do self-cleaning pyrolytic ovens use a lot of electricity?

How Do Self-Cleaning Ovens Work?

To understand how much electricity self-cleaning ovens use, we first need to understand a little more about how they work. Most self-cleaning features on ovens work by using one of two methods:

• Pyrolytic Cleaning: These self-cleaning ovens heat to extremely high temperatures and burn off all of the grease and other residues by turning them into ash.
• Steam Cleaning: This is where water is combined with high heat to loosen all the residue on the inside of your oven. You’ll need to manually clean inside the oven after a steam cleaning cycle, but most of the hard work is done for you.

In both types of self-cleaning ovens, extremely high temperatures are required for cleaning to be successful. And it is the generation of such intense heat that uses up energy and electricity.

How Much Power Does a Pyrolytic Oven Use?

On average, the self-cleaning cycle on a self-cleaning pyrolytic oven uses 8 kWh of electricity. This is around the same amount of energy as using an electric oven normally nine times!

At current electricity prices of 24.67p per kWh for the period from 1 April to 30 June 2026, a cleaning cycle on a pyrolytic oven would cost £1.97.

Steam cleaning ovens require far less energy, and so are better if you want to keep your electricity costs down. They only require around 3 kWh to run. This is still closer to the equivalent amount of energy you’d use to cook in your oven each day.

At current electricity prices of 24.67p per kWh, a cleaning cycle on a steam cleaning oven would cost £0.74.

However, in terms of cooking, self-cleaning ovens are still more energy-efficient than traditional ovens. This is because they are made specifically to withstand extremely high cleaning-cycle temperatures and are far better insulated.

For this reason, they retain their heat more readily and require less energy for standard cooking.

Electricity Usage of Self-Cleaning vs. Traditional Ovens

The best way to look at how much electricity self-cleaning ovens use is to compare their energy usage to that of traditional electric ovens.

As mentioned, cooking using a self-cleaning oven requires less energy than a standard oven thanks to its incredible insulation.

However, the self-cleaning feature is an entirely unnecessary use of energy as the task can be done by hand.

If you want to keep your electricity usage as low as possible, your best option is to purchase a pyrolytic self-cleaning oven but not use its self-cleaning function itself.

This does mean you’ll still have to scrub away at your oven by hand, but you’ll be spending less money on electricity used to heat the oven. Besides, using less energy is also great for the planet.

Hannah

Hannah is a freelance content writer and self-proclaimed foodie. When Hannah isn’t sitting tapping at her laptop, you’ll probably find her in the kitchen. As an ex-chalet host, she’s used to cooking four-course meals for 10+ people and loves feeding friends and family whenever possible.

The post How Much Power Does a Pyrolytic Oven Use? (2026 UK) appeared first on Chef's Pick.

This can be a great time to pick up a bargain, but the deals aren’t always as good as they look.

In this guide, we’ll share the best places to find Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on ovens, cookers and hobs, plus some tips on how to tell which deals are the most genuine.

Chef's Pick

Chef’s Pick is your guide to the best kitchen equipment and appliances in the UK.
We help you understand the confusing world of cookers, ovens and cookware so you can get the most out of your kitchen.

The post Black Friday Oven, Cooker & Hob Deals in the UK appeared first on Chef's Pick.

More than that, oven doors that don’t shut properly compromise the efficiency and safety of your oven.

Here, we explore the common causes behind an oven door that won’t close as it should. From issues with door seals and hinges to potential obstructions and misalignments, understanding the root causes is the first step toward finding effective solutions.

So, join us as we go through nine troubleshooting techniques and practical tips for resolving the issue.

How Do You Fix an Oven Door That Won’t Close?

If your oven door won’t close properly, there are a few potential reasons for the issue. Regardless of whether you have a slide-away door oven or an oven with a French or pull-down door, here are the steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem:

1. Inspect the door seal

All oven doors have a rubber seal – known as a gasket – around the edge. The rubber seal helps to create an airtight seal between the oven door and the oven cavity.

This is crucial for maintaining an accurate temperature inside the oven, resulting in even cooking, more energy-efficient operation, and lower running costs.

If your oven door won’t close, there is a chance that the rubber gasket around the oven door may be damaged or worn out.

Inspect the seal for any tears, deformities, or signs of wear. If the seal is compromised, it may need to be replaced.

Replacing the gasket on an oven door is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a general guide:

1. Turn off and open the oven: Ensure that the oven is turned off and has cooled down completely. Then, fully open the oven door to access the gasket. Depending on the make and model, you may need to remove the oven door to access the rubber seal fully.
2. Remove the gasket: Locate the screws securing the old gasket and use a screwdriver to remove them. It may also be held in place by additional clips or other fasteners that can be removed using pliers. Carefully peel off the old gasket from the edge of the oven door.
3. Clean the gasket area: Clean the area where the old gasket was attached using soap and water or a mild cleaner. This removes any residue that could interfere with the proper closure of your oven door.
4. Install the new seal: Unbox the new oven door gasket. Align it with the door opening and press it into place. Secure the new gasket using the clips or fasteners. If your gasket doesn’t come with new clips or fasteners, reuse the ones you removed earlier.
5. Check the gasket: Ensure that the gasket is securely attached around the entire perimeter of the oven door. Then, close the oven door and check for a proper seal. The gasket should create a tight seal around the door to prevent heat loss.

2. Clean the door and hinges

Sometimes, dirt, grease, or debris can accumulate around the door and hinges, preventing it from closing correctly. Therefore, try cleaning the area thoroughly to ensure no obstructions and see if your oven door will shut again. If preferred, you can also pay for professional oven cleaning.

Assuming you’re cleaning the oven yourself, below is the cleaning process we recommend you follow. Remember to turn the oven off and allow it to cool down before you begin:

1. Sweep or vacuum the area around the oven to remove any loose debris, crumbs, or dirt.
2. Mix warm water and a small amount of washing-up liquid or a mild kitchen cleaner in a bowl.
3. Dampen a soft sponge or cloth with the cleaning solution and wipe down the exterior of the oven door. Pay attention to areas with grease splatters, fingerprints, or other stains.
4. Gently clean the rubber gasket around the oven door. Use a soft cloth or an old toothbrush to remove any dirt or debris, being careful not to damage the gasket.
5. Use paper towels to dry all surfaces thoroughly, then test to see if the oven door closes.

3. Check for obstructions

If your oven door won’t close, there could be various obstructions causing the problem.

Therefore, look for any objects or debris that may be preventing the door from closing and remove them. You must ensure nothing is blocking either the hinges or the door itself.

Here are some common obstructions to check for:

• Cookware or oven racks: Check the oven racks for cookware that might be obstructing the door. Pans, baking trays, or other items can protrude and prevent the door from closing.
• Obstruction in the door hinges: Inspect the hinges on the oven door for any debris, food particles, or other obstructions. Clean the hinges carefully to ensure they can move freely.
• Buildup of food or grease: Food or grease buildup around the edges of the oven door or on the gasket can interfere with proper closure. Clean these areas thoroughly.
• Misaligned rubber gasket: If the rubber gasket around the oven door is misaligned, damaged, or has food debris stuck to it, it can prevent the door from closing properly.
• Foreign objects in the door latch: Check the door latch for any foreign objects hindering its operation. Clean the latch area to ensure it can engage properly.

4. Adjust the door hinges

The hinges on your oven may be misaligned, causing the door to close at an awkward angle and not fit properly within the frame.

Close the oven door and observe how it aligns with the oven cavity. Adjustments may be necessary if the door is not closing evenly or is misaligned.

The specific process for adjusting door hinges will vary depending on your oven model, so it’s crucial to consult your user manual for precise instructions. However, here’s a general guide that may help:

1. Locate the hinge adjustment screws: Open the oven door to access the hinges and locate the hinge adjustment screws on each side. These screws are usually found on the hinge itself or the oven frame.
2. Loosen the adjustment screws: Use a screwdriver (usually a Phillips-head type) to loosen the hinge adjustment screws by turning the screws anti-clockwise. You may need to loosen both the upper and lower screws on each hinge.
3. Adjust the door: With the screws loosened, make adjustments to the door position. If the door needs to move up, lift it slightly, or if it needs to move down, lower it. If it needs to tilt to one side, tilt it accordingly. This is often easier with the help of a friend or family member.
4. Tighten the adjustment screws: Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments, tighten the hinge adjustment screws by turning them clockwise and secure the door in its new place. Ensure the door remains in the desired position as you tighten the bolts.
5. Test the door closure: Open and close the oven door to check if it now closes evenly and aligns properly with the oven cavity. If needed, make further adjustments by repeating steps two to four until your oven door closes correctly.

5. Inspect the latch

All oven doors have a latch mechanism designed to secure the door during operation, especially when the oven is in use and generating high temperatures.

The latch ensures the oven door is tightly closed, preventing heat from escaping and enhancing the appliance’s safety.

If your oven door won’t shut, the latch might be broken. Check the latch mechanism to ensure it is functioning correctly and replace it if needed by following these steps:

Note: Before attempting any repairs, ensure that the oven is turned off and has cooled down completely to avoid burns or injuries.

1. Order a replacement latch: Identify the model number of your oven and order a replacement door latch from the manufacturer or a reliable supplier. You must make sure the replacement latch is compatible with your oven model.
2. Remove the old latch: Locate the screws holding the latch in place and remove them, then carefully detach the latch from the door. Some latches may have electrical wires connected for features like self-cleaning in pyrolytic ovens. If so, carefully disconnect them, too.
3. Install the new latch: If your replacement latch comes with instructions, follow those for installation. Generally, you’ll need to attach the new door latch to the oven door using the screws you removed earlier and reconnect any wires if your latch is electrically operated.
4. Test the door latch: Close the oven door and test the new latch to ensure it engages properly. If there are any issues, double-check the installation and make adjustments if necessary. If you’re still experiencing problems, you might need to adjust the hinges.

6. Tighten screws and bolts

If your oven door isn’t closing, check all screws and bolts on the oven door are tight. Loose screws can contribute to misalignment and prevent the door from shutting properly. Fortunately, a quick tightening with a screwdriver should solve the problem.

Here are the key screws and bolts involved in the opening and closing of your oven door that you should check:

• Hinge screws: Oven doors are usually attached to the oven body with hinges. These hinges have screws that secure them to the oven frame to hold the door in place.
• Hinge adjustment screws: Some oven doors have hinge adjustment screws that allow you to adjust the position of the door. Check these are screwed in tightly.
• Latch screws: The door latch mechanism is often secured with screws. If these screws are loose, it can affect the proper engagement of the latch.
• Frame bolts: The oven frame may have bolts that secure it to the cabinet or kitchen structure. If these bolts are loose, it can cause the oven to shift, affecting door alignment.
• Handle screws: The handle of the oven door is often attached with screws. If these screws are loose, it may affect the overall stability of the door.

7. Replace damaged springs or hinges

If you find any damaged hinges or springs, you may need to replace these parts. Consult your oven user manual or contact the manufacturer for information on obtaining replacement parts compatible with your oven, then follow these steps:

Note: Before attempting any repairs, make sure you’ve turned the oven off and given it time to cool down. Consider seeking professional assistance if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process.

1. Fully open the oven door to access the hinges and springs.
2. Identify the broken springs and hinges. Hinges are typically attached to the oven frame, while springs are often connected to the door or hinges.
3. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws or bolts securing the broken hinges or springs.
4. Attach the replacement hinges and springs, following the same steps in reverse removal order. Refer to the user manual for your oven if at all unsure.
5. Ensure that all screws are tightened securely, using a screwdriver or pliers as needed.
6. Open and close the oven door to test the functionality of the new springs and hinges. The door should move smoothly and close securely.

8. Replace the oven door

In some cases, you will need to replace the entire oven door with a new one. Identify the model number of your oven and order a replacement door from the manufacturer.

You can then unscrew the old oven door and attach the new one in its place.

Before replacing the oven door, considering whether you’re better off buying a whole new oven is worthwhile.

Here are some factors to think about:

• Cost of replacement parts: Compare the cost of the replacement door and any necessary parts (hinges, springs, etc.) to the cost of a new oven. If the replacement parts are expensive, investing in a new appliance might make more sense.
• Age of the oven: Replacing the door may be a cost-effective option if your oven is relatively new and in good overall condition. However, ovens don’t last forever. If the oven is old and experiencing multiple issues, it might be better to invest in a new model.
• Extent of damage: Consider the extent of the damage to the oven door. If the damage is limited to the door itself and the hinges, and replacement parts are readily available, it may be worth replacing the door.

9. Seek professional help

If your oven door still won’t close after following these troubleshooting steps, it’s best to consult with a qualified appliance repair technician.

You should also reach out to a professional repair company if you’re uncomfortable trying to fix the problem yourself.

Besides, professional repairs are more likely to result in a lasting solution to extend the lifespan of your oven.

When contacting a professional, provide them with information about the make and model of your oven, as well as a clear description of the issue.

This will help them come prepared with the necessary tools and replacement parts if needed.

Hannah

Hannah is a freelance content writer and self-proclaimed foodie. When Hannah isn’t sitting tapping at her laptop, you’ll probably find her in the kitchen. As an ex-chalet host, she’s used to cooking four-course meals for 10+ people and loves feeding friends and family whenever possible.

The post Oven Door Won’t Close – Causes and Solutions appeared first on Chef's Pick.

We’ll explore all the common issues that might be to blame and step-by-step solutions right here.

By the end, you’ll be armed with insights into power supply, oven controls, oven timers, heating elements, gas supply, ignitors, thermostats, temperature sensors, and the elusive control board, all of which can be responsible for your oven not heating up. Keep reading for all you need to know!

What Can Cause an Oven to Not Heat Up?

There could be several reasons why your oven is not heating up. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the problem.

1. Power supply issues

Both gas ovens and electric ovens require electricity to function. Electric ovens rely on electricity to power all components, including the heating elements and control panel.

While gas ovens generate their heat using gas rather than electricity, modern gas ovens need power for the ignitors, gas valves, thermostats, and clocks to function.

Therefore, power supply issues could be the reason your oven isn’t heating up. To check that your stove is connected to electricity, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. Make sure that the oven is properly plugged into a functioning power outlet.
2. Check for tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses in your electrical panel.

2. Wrong oven controls

Once you have confirmed your oven has power, double-check the oven settings you have selected on your display panel.

In many cases, the reason your oven isn’t heating up is due to no fault in the appliance—it’s due to the user accidentally using incorrect oven settings.

Sometimes, it’s easy to overlook this basic step, especially if you have a multifunctional oven. So, double-check that the following oven controls are appropriate for your cooking needs:

1. Ensure that you have set the oven to the desired temperature.
2. Make sure you have selected the correct cooking mode (bake, grill, fan, bake, etc.).
3. If you have a double oven, check the temperature and cooking mode are turned on for the same oven compartment.

3. Incorrect timer settings

In some ovens (particularly those with advanced features), the timer is crucial in determining when the oven turns on and off. It essentially acts as a scheduler for the oven’s operation.

For example, the timer and clock are involved in the following features:

• Delay start functionality: Many modern ovens have a delay start function that allows you to set a specific time for the oven to begin heating. If the timer is not set correctly, the oven may not start heating until the scheduled time.
• Automatic shut-off: Some ovens have an automatic shut-off feature that turns the oven off after a set period. If the timer is set for a short duration, the oven may shut off before reaching the desired cooking temperature.
• Cooking programs and modes: Certain cooking programs or modes in advanced ovens might be linked to the timer. For example, a timed cooking program may require the timer to be set for the oven to operate.

Therefore, your oven may not heat up if the timer or clock is set incorrectly. Follow these troubleshooting tips to see if the clock/timer could be responsible for the problems you’re having:

1. Check that the clock on the oven is accurate and matches the real time.
2. Check if your oven has a timer function that might be accidentally set to turn off the heat prematurely.

4. Faulty heating element

Electric cookers have heating elements that are responsible for converting electrical energy into heat.

Most ovens have two heating elements, typically located at the bottom of the oven (bake element) and sometimes at the top (broil/grill element).

These elements glow red when activated, generating the heat necessary for cooking. However, heating elements can burn out or develop faults over time and fail to produce heat as needed.

If your oven isn’t generating heat, it could be a sign that one or both of the heating elements are broken and need to be replaced.

Here is some general troubleshooting advice to see if this is causing the problem:

1. Turn the oven on and visually check that the heating elements glow red.
2. Visibly inspect the heating element to ensure no signs of damage, such as visible breaks, burns, or irregularities.

5. Gas supply issues

In gas cookers, the proper functioning of the appliance depends on a steady supply of gas.

The gas is the fuel that burns to produce fire and heat the oven’s interior to the desired temperature. The size of the flame is controlled by the amount of gas released.

If the oven is not heating up, there might be issues with the gas supply. Either your oven has no gas or is not receiving as much as it needs to get to your chosen temperature.

To check for gas supply issues, follow these steps:

1. Check that you cannot smell gas when the oven is on, which could indicate a gas leak.
2. Locate the gas supply valve (typically located behind or beneath the oven) and ensure that the lever is in the open position.

6. Malfunctioning ignitor

Gas ovens aren’t solely reliant on gas—to be functional, they also need an igniter that lights the gas.

Most modern gas ovens have electrical ignitors that rely on electricity, whereas older gas range cookers might have a pilot light that needs to be lit for the oven to turn on.

If the igniter is faulty, it may not ignite the gas, and your oven won’t ever reach temperature. Here are some steps you can take to see if the ignitor is broken or faulty:

1. Inspect the igniter and make sure there are no cracks or other signs of damage.
2. Ensure the ignitor is glowing when the oven turns on.
3. Check that there is a minimal delay between turning on the oven and the gas igniting.

7. Thermostat or temperature sensor issues

The thermostat in an oven is responsible for setting an accurate oven temperature, ensuring that the oven reaches and maintains the desired temperature for cooking.

Modern ovens are also equipped with temperature sensors that monitor the internal temperature.

Both the thermostat and temperature sensor work together to regulate oven temperature. When you turn on your oven, the thermostat is set to match the designed cooking temperature.

Meanwhile, the sensor continuously measures the temperature inside the oven. This information is sent to the thermostat, which compares the real temperature with the desired temperature set by the user.

If there is a difference between these temperatures, the thermostat changes the heat output to the oven.

Therefore, if either component is dysfunctional, this feedback loop fails. The oven is unable to compare its actual temperature to the desired cooking temperature, and it might not heat up at all.

Follow these troubleshooting steps to test the functionality of these components:

1. Check the accuracy of your oven temperature using a thermometer.
2. Ensure the temperature sensor is working by testing the continuity with a multimeter.

8. Faulty control board

If your oven still isn’t working, there might be an issue with the control board. The control board manages all functions inside your oven.

If it’s defective, it may not send the correct signals to the heating elements and your oven won’t get hot.

Replacement of the control board might be necessary, but here are some troubleshooting tips to try:

1. Check the display panel for error codes indicating a faulty control board.
2. Check if the display is responsive to inputs and accurately reflects the settings.
3. Inspect the control board for damage, such as burn marks, melted parts or loose wires.
4. Test the functionality of the control board by trying different oven functions, such as bake, broil, and the clock.

How Can You Fix an Oven That Won’t Heat Up?

Fixing an oven that won’t heat up can be challenging because there are many potential causes.

Your best option is to work through our troubleshooting steps above and identify the root of the problem. You can then find appropriate solutions depending on what you discover.

For example, you might need to reconnect your oven to the power, resolve gas supply issues, reset the clock and timer, replace broken parts (heating elements, ignitors, control panels, etc.), recalibrate your oven thermostat, or fix a gas leak.

If you need new oven parts, make sure you talk to the manufacturer and order the correct parts for the make and model of your oven.

If you’re unable to identify or resolve the issue, or if you’re not comfortable with attempting to resolve the problem yourself, it’s advisable to seek the assistance of a professional appliance repair technician. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix more complex issues.

Hannah

Hannah is a freelance content writer and self-proclaimed foodie. When Hannah isn’t sitting tapping at her laptop, you’ll probably find her in the kitchen. As an ex-chalet host, she’s used to cooking four-course meals for 10+ people and loves feeding friends and family whenever possible.

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Countertop ovens are the versatile, smart big sister of the microwave, allowing you to cook everything from steak to pizzas to baked goods, such as bread.

So, if you’re wondering what the best countertop mini ovens in the UK, allow us to indulge you…

What to Look for When Buying a Mini Countertop Oven

Really, there isn’t a massive difference between one product or another, so things to consider would be the space available in your kitchen and what your budget is.

If you don’t have a stove in your kitchen, buying a countertop oven with a hotplate feature might be wise, but be mindful that you may not be able to use both the stove and oven capacity at the same time, which can be a huge inconvenience when preparing a meal.

While online reviews are subjective and can often be party to other factors that may not have been mentioned (such as general care and maintenance of the product), it can be wise to go with a product where the reviews are mostly favourable.

Countertop Oven vs Microwave: What’s the Difference?

Microwaves are designed to apply heat to food very quickly by heating the moisture within the food to cook it from the inside out. Therefore, dry foods aren’t advised to cook in the microwave.

While microwaves have their uses, they’re not designed to rely solely on for cooking whole meals.

This is where having a countertop oven will benefit you. You’ll have almost all the benefits an oven provides, but for less space and less energy-use.

How Long Do Countertop Ovens Last?

This will likely vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but also the care provided for the item determines its longevity. Poorly-cared-for products tend to have a shorter lifespan.

If well looked after, your countertop oven should last between 15-20 years. You will need to regularly and properly clean your oven, making sure the fan doesn’t get clogged with grease or food matter.

Where Is the Best Place to Put My Countertop Oven?

Space, of course, is the key issue here, but one of the useful things about countertop ovens is they provide ample choice of where they can be placed. Here are some of your possible options:

• Countertop
• Freestanding shelf
• Wall-mounted shelf
• Under cabinets

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Some of the best mini countertop ovens in the UK! Regardless of your kitchen space restrictions, you’re likely to find one just right for you.

Whether you require one with a hotplate, or just a basic oven function, there’s ample choices at your disposal.

If we had to choose just one mini oven to recommend, it would be the Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 Multifunction Oven DT200UK. As the name suggests, it’s very versatile, with 10 different functions. It’s also energy efficient and can be a good alternative to buying a regular oven, though it is a pain to clean.

Clara Taylor

Clara is a freelance writer and former chef. Though she may have hung up her apron, her love of food and cooking is still going strong! When she’s not whipping up a verbal storm, she’ll be in her kitchen sipping wine and whipping up a culinary storm.

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Many double ovens feature a grill in one compartment, so you can grill something in one compartment while using the oven feature in the other.

This makes them quite versatile and good for cooking more complex dishes or preparing different food for different members of the family.

In this article we’ll look at some of the most popular and highly rated built-under double ovens on the market right now, and explain more about what double ovens are, whether or not you should choose one and what to look for when making a purchase.

Things to Consider When Shopping for a Built-Under Double Oven

Here are some things to think about when purchasing a built-under double oven.

Do you definitely want a built-under oven?

Remember that a built-under oven isn’t the same as a built-in oven. Built-under ovens go under your kitchen worksurface, whereas built-in ovens sit at eye level. This means that built-under ovens aren’t a great choice if you have back problems and find it hard to bend down.

Is the main cavity big enough?

One of the main disadvantages of double ovens is that neither of the two cavities is as large as a single oven. If you need to cook large dishes such as roasts, look for a double oven with a large main cavity.

Do you have enough space?

Make sure you measure the space in your kitchen before ordering an oven. Built-under double ovens usually measure about 59.5 cm wide x 55 cm deep x 72 cm high, and fit in a standard kitchen appliance space.

Built-Under Double Oven FAQs

What is a double oven?

A double oven is simply an oven with two different cooking spaces, or cavities. Each cavity can be controlled independently, so you can cook things at different temperatures, or just use one of the cavities if you’re cooking something small.

What is a built-under double oven?

“Built-under double oven” refers to double ovens designed to fit under your kitchen countertop. They usually measure slightly less than 60 cm wide by 60 cm deep, which is the standard size for kitchen appliances and means they will fit under the average kitchen worksurface.

Built-under ovens are a type of integrated oven, in contrast to electric cookers that feature a hob as well.

Is a single or double oven better?

This all depends on your cooking habits. Here are a few things to think about.

• Cooking large roasts? Then choose a single oven.
  If you need to be able to cook large roasts, Christmas dinners and other dishes that require a large oven space, go for a single oven. Single ovens usually have a larger capacity than either of the cavities on a double oven. This makes single ovens better suited to large roasts where you need a lot of space.
• Cooking for one? Then choose a double oven.
  If you’re cooking small dishes for one or two people, it will be quicker and more energy efficient to heat up one small oven cavity in a double oven.
• Frequent grill user? Consider a double oven.
  A common complaint among single oven owners who use the built-in grill frequently is that it smokes, since fat from the food you cook in the oven splashes onto the grill. Therefore, a double grill with a separate grill space can be a good option.

Are built-in ovens the same as built-under ovens?

No, built-in ovens are designed to be positioned at eye level, whereas built-under ovens go under the kitchen countertop.

Both are roughly 60 cm wide by 60 cm deep, but built-in ovens are slightly taller (about 85-90 cm), whereas built-under ovens are about 70-75 m high.

Can you use a built-in oven as a built-under?

No, built-in ovens are usually too tall to fit under the kitchen work surface without the door hitting the floor as you open it.

Kitchen countertop in the UK are usually 90 cm high. Built-in double ovens are usually 88 cm, so if you fitted it under a countertop the door wouldn’t be able to open properly.

Do built-under ovens have feet?

Some built-under ovens come with feet, while others don’t. Product descriptions on retailer websites usually state if an oven comes with feet.

What’s the difference between class 2 and class 4 ovens?

Ovens from Hotpoint have a class number, the most popular of which are 2 and 4.

This doesn’t have anything to do with energy efficiency classes, which are denoted by letters and plus symbols, for example A+.

It doesn’t refer to the appliance class either, which is used to differentiate between what protective-earth connection different electrical devices need.

Instead, the classes appear to simply be a naming convention created by Hotpoint to refer to the quality of the product. The higher the class number, the higher the price.

Therefore, a class 4 oven is one that Hotpoint believe to be higher quality than a class 2 oven, and it is therefore more expensive.

Conclusion

If we had to pick just one built-under double oven to recommend it would be the Belling BI702FPCT. It’s one of the most popular products on the market, and is highly rated by buyers. It’s reasonably priced, looks stylish and is easy to clean.

Chef's Pick

Chef’s Pick is your guide to the best kitchen equipment and appliances in the UK.
We help you understand the confusing world of cookers, ovens and cookware so you can get the most out of your kitchen.

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