Our guide to buying the best dual fuel cooker
Dual fuel cooker buyers guide
So, you’re buying a new cooker and you have a big decision to make- gas or electric? Why not combine the best of both worlds and opt for a dual fuel cooker? Favoured by professional chefs, dual fuel cookers use both gas and electric fuel in different parts of the appliance. Gas is used to heat the hob because it provides instant and controllable heat. Electricity heats the oven as it provides a more even temperature, which is particularly beneficial for keen bakers. Since this is such an important appliance, finding the right dual fuel cooker for you is essential. Our handy buyer’s guide will help you to select your perfect model.
Things to consider when buying a dual fuel cooker
Gas and electrical supply
As a dual fuel cooker uses both gas and electricity, you’ll need to think about the supply in your home. Given that a dual fuel cooker uses gas, it will need to be fitted by a Gas Safety engineer, while a qualified electrician should carry out any changes to your home’s electrical systems.
Size
Dual fuel cookers come in a range of sizes from 60cm to 90cm and even 100cm and beyond. The most common size for dual fuel cookers tends to be a slimline 60cm model. This will usually get you a four-burner hob as well as a double oven or oven and grill as standard. These are perfect for the average family kitchen, or a kitchen where space is at a premium. Bigger families or those who really love entertaining may want to check out a larger option, such as a 70cm Smeg dual fuel mini range cooker. This style has five cooking hobs and a larger sized double oven. Consider how much cooking space you feel would suit your needs, but be aware that the larger size usually carries a larger price tag.
Style
As it is often viewed as the centrepiece of the kitchen, you want your cooker to look good. Our range comes in a whole array of colours and styles. Choose from the standard black, silver or white options. Alternatively, you can jazz things up and make a bold statement with a spicy jalapeno red dual fuel cooker or a country classic cream option.
Some of the Smeg range’s ultra-modern, sleek stainless-steel finish can complement other appliances in a contemporary kitchen. Alternatively, you can bring more of a country cottage feel with the curvy edges and creamy colours of some of the models in the Rangemaster Classic collection. For an entirely different look, Zanussi make a monochrome lover’s dream with a white hob and black oven.
Budget
The range of features and technology available in a dual fuel cooker will affect the price but be prepared to pay anywhere from £620 to £2700 for a dual fuel cooker from a trusted and well-known brand name.
Special features
Special features vary from model to model so consider what your household may benefit from, such as Bluetooth connectivity or a self-cleaning oven.
Fan oven
Most electric ovens have fan technology to help distribute the heat evenly. This is great for bakers, who need a consistent, even temperature to achieve the best results. Consider how much you use your oven and what for before selecting a dual fuel cooker. You may want to make sure the bigger part of the oven is fan assisted if you are a keen chef or baker.
Catalytic liners
Some dual-fuel cookers have catalytic liners covering the inside surfaces of the oven to make cleaning easier. The liners soak up dirt and grease and once a month, a self-cleaning cycle heats the liner to loosen grime so it can be wiped easily away.
Pyrolytic cleaning
This self-cleaning function is sometimes available on dual fuel cookers towards the higher end of the price range. It means the oven has a special function which heats it to a very high temperature to burn food debris into ash making it easier to wipe.
Fascia cooling system
Some models include this special safety feature which provides peace of mind for families with young children. A special cooling fan keeps the fascia of the cooker, including the control buttons and knobs, cool when the oven is on.
Easy clean enamel
Many dual fuel cookers use easy clean enamel surfaces that are easier to wipe clean, as the name suggests.
Lid/Lid with auto shut off
Some of the range style dual fuel cookers have a lid that can reduce noise and also give a pleasing aesthetic when not in use. Some have an auto shut off feature when the lid is down.
Telescopic shelves
Special sliding racks ensure that the shelves that are easy to move in and out of the oven in one fluid movement. Telescopic shelves help you to remove trays and dishes easily and safely.
Bluetooth technology
Some (usually higher end) models allow you to use Bluetooth technology to set the clock and timer on your dual fuel cooker remotely.