Oven and hob deals

Buying advice

First check whether the oven and hob work independently of each other. Standalone appliances can be placed freely in the room, for example the oven at eye level in a tall cabinet, while a coupled set is controlled from the oven and has to sit directly underneath it. For the oven, besides the usable cavity volume, the available heating modes matter most: fan heat for several trays at once, top and bottom heat for cakes, plus a grill or steam support depending on your needs. For the hob, the zone layout shapes everyday use, so look at whether two zones can be combined into one roasting area and how flexibly large pots can be positioned. Also check the connection: induction and many electric hobs need a high-power circuit, which can mean electrician costs when replacing an old unit.

Simple built-in ovens with fan heat usually cost roughly between 250 and 450 euros and are perfectly adequate for everyday baking and roasting. In the range of about 450 to 800 euros you get comfort features such as pyrolysis, telescopic rails, a meat probe or more convenient display operation. Above that you find appliances with steam functions, app connectivity or automatic programmes, which tend to start at around 900 euros. Ceramic hobs are often available from about 200 euros, induction usually starts at around 300 to 400 euros, and full-surface induction with free pot detection is considerably more expensive. Cooker sets from well-known manufacturers such as Bosch, Siemens or AEG are often found in the mid three-digit range.

A deal is worthwhile when the price is noticeably below the usual market level of recent weeks; a price history overview helps you more than a crossed-out reference price. Previous-year models are often interesting because little changes technically and remaining stock is sold off, recognisable by slightly different type numbers. Larger promotional periods tend to be late autumn and the turn of the year. Factor in follow-up costs: delivery, connection by a qualified electrician, disposal of the old appliance if needed, and suitable cookware when switching to induction. Also compare the energy efficiency class and the consumption figure, and check the installation dimensions of your kitchen before you buy.

What to look for

• Pyrolysis cleans the oven almost by itself at very high temperature, but costs extra and uses electricity.
• Induction heats faster and more efficiently than ceramic glass, but needs pots and pans with a magnetic base.
• Cooker sets of oven and hob are often cheaper, but tie you to one brand.