Is a Convection Oven Worth It?

Convection ovens use a fan and exhaust system to circulate hot air, leading to more even cooking and shorter cook times. However, they’re typically more expensive than traditional ovens, causing some homeowners to ask whether they’re worth the extra cost. 

If you’re in the market for a new oven, keep reading to learn the benefits and drawbacks of convection ovens, who can benefit from them, and how to know whether it’s a worthwhile investment for you.

What Is a Convection Oven?

Like we mentioned before, convection ovens circulate hot air using a fan and exhaust system. Conventional ovens, on the other hand, only heat food from the top and bottom. 

The only difference between a standard convection oven (sometimes called fan-assisted) and a traditional oven is the addition of a fan. True convection ovens (sometimes referred to as European) feature a third heating element in addition to the fan, further enhancing the benefits of convection cooking. 

Benefits of a Convection Oven

Convection ovens are designed to improve cooking performance, making it quicker and easier to make your favorite foods. Whether you’re baking a sweet treat, roasting a Thanksgiving turkey, or warming up some leftovers, they’re known for creating delicious confections.

The benefits of convection ovens include:

• More even cooking: Circulating air throughout the oven while cooking prevents hot and cold spots. 
• Faster cook times: Convection cooks food more quickly, so you don’t have to wait as long to chow down. 
• Energy efficiency: When you don’t have to cook your food as long, you use less electricity, which is good for both your wallet and the planet. 
• Better baking and roasting: Achieve crispier crusts, evenly browned meats, and flakier pastries. 
• Versatility: They work for roasting, baking, reheating, broiling, and more.

Drawbacks to Consider

Despite their benefits, convection ovens may come with some drawbacks, as well. There’s a learning curve involved with getting used to them, and you may have to adjust recipes, temperatures, or cook times. 

Additionally, they’re not ideal for every dish — they can dry out delicate baked goods like custards and cakes. However, most models allow you to turn the convection feature off; it’s just a matter of figuring out the right settings for each recipe.

Another significant drawback for many homeowners is that convection ovens typically come with a higher upfront cost. You can expect to pay at least a couple hundred dollars more for a convection model than you would for a conventional oven. However, if you use your oven a lot, the energy savings of convection cooking may make up the difference in the long run. 

Repairs and Maintenance

With more features and parts, you can typically expect convection ovens to require more maintenance than conventional ovens. Common issues include:

• Fan not working or making noise.
• Uneven heating despite the convection feature.
• Temperature calibration problems.
• Electrical or control board issues.

At the first sign of problems, it’s essential to seek professional appliance repair services to keep your oven running smoothly. Don’t wait until a minor issue turns into a major malfunction. 

Who Should Invest in a Convection Oven?

Convection ovens are great for home cooks who frequently bake, roast, or meal prep, along with families who want faster cook times and energy savings. They’re also ideal for people who often entertain guests and need reliable, consistent results.

Basically, if you’re replacing your old oven and your budget allows for it, upgrading to convection is definitely something to consider. If you don’t cook or bake very often, a standard oven is probably sufficient. 

If you mainly want a convection oven for its ability to give you crispier food, consider getting an air fryer (or a toaster oven with an air fryer mode) instead and continue to use a conventional oven for baking. Air fryers also use convection to cook, but they heat up much faster because they’re a fraction of the size, making them more convenient (and cost-effective). 

If you decide to invest in a convection oven, remember that regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential for keeping it in proper working order for years to come. 

Oven Maintenance and Repairs by Appliance E.M.T.

No matter what type of oven you have, you can trust Appliance E.M.T. for expert appliance maintenance and repairs in Weber and Davis counties. We have experience working with a wide range of brands and models, and we’re always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done right. 

Contact us today for maintenance, repairs, and expert advice for choosing or upgrading your home appliances.