The Complete Guide Double Oven
Everything you need to know about choosing the right oven for your kitchen from sizes and installation types to heating technologies and energy efficiency.
The Complete Guide to Double Ovens
A double oven gives two separate cavities in one built-in appliance. You cook two dishes at different temperatures at the same time, or run one cavity for smaller meals. This guide covers layouts, sizes, features, and the checks that prevent fitting problems.
What Is a Double Oven?
A double oven is one built-in appliance with two separate oven cavities. The cavities sit one above the other. Each cavity has its own temperature control, so you roast in one cavity and bake in the other at the same time.
Most UK double ovens have a smaller top cavity and a larger main cavity below. The top cavity often acts as the grill and a second oven for smaller dishes. The main cavity handles larger trays and everyday cooking.
Double ovens come in two installation styles. Built-in models fit into a tall housing unit. Built-under models fit under the worktop. The cabinet cut-out and overall height differ, so matching the correct type matters during replacement.
Good to Know
A double oven is different from two single ovens stacked. Two single ovens give two large cavities. A double oven splits the space, so the main cavity often feels smaller than a large single oven.
The Changing Double Oven Market
Important: Smaller Choice Than Single Ovens
Double ovens remain popular in many UK homes, yet the choice is smaller than single ovens. Many brands focus new features on single ovens and compact ovens, so double ovens often keep simpler specifications.
If you want a double oven for a like for like replacement, match the installation type and the cut-out size first. This step avoids buying a model that does not fit your cabinet.
Why Many Renovations Use an Appliance Tower
Many modern kitchen plans use a single oven with a compact oven above or below it. The compact oven often adds microwave, steam, or combination cooking. This setup gives two temperatures like a double oven, plus extra cooking modes.
A double oven still suits many households. It keeps everything in one appliance. It suits people who prefer a separate grill cavity and two oven temperatures without adding more appliances.
Replacement Tip
Built-in double ovens and built-under double ovens are not interchangeable. Measure the niche height before you shop.
Single Oven vs Double Oven
This comparison focuses on what changes in real use. Two temperatures, cavity space, and feature choice matter most.
| Feature | Single Oven | Double Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Number of cavities | One cavity | Two cavities |
| Two temperatures at once | No | Yes |
| Grill | Built-in grill in the same cavity | Grill usually sits in the top cavity |
| Main cavity space | Often larger than a double oven main cavity. 70-80 litres | Main cavity varies, often smaller than a large single oven. Top cavity 30-35 litres and bottom cavity 48-71 litres. |
| Appliance height | About 59 cm | Built-in about 88 to 90 cm. Built-under about 72 cm |
| Feature choice | Wider range of modern features and finishes | More limited feature choice |
| Typical price range | Wide range from entry to premium | Most models sit in the entry to mid market range |
The Grill Question
Most single ovens include a grill. The grill uses the same cavity as the oven, so it does not give a second temperature zone. A double oven gives a separate space for grilling while the main cavity cooks at a different temperature.
Key Decision
Pick a double oven when two separate temperatures matter more than one large cavity and premium features.
Built-in vs Built-under Installation
Double ovens come in two configurations. The right choice depends on your cabinet space and how you want to access the ovens.
Built-in
Installed in a tall housing unit
- Common niche height around 88 to 90 cm
- Easier loading and checking without bending
- Grill height suits daily use
- Works well in tall housing layouts
- Often more choice in finishes than built-under models
Built-under
Installed under the worktop
- Common height around 72 cm
- Suits kitchens without a tall housing space
- More bending for both cavities
- Often fitted below a hob
- Capacity often lower than built-in double ovens
Installation Tip
Match the oven type to your cabinet. Built-in and built-under models use different cut-outs.
Understanding the Two Cavities
The two cavities are not identical. The top cavity is smaller and often focuses on grilling. The main cavity handles most baking and roasting.
Top Cavity vs Main Cavity
Before you buy, check how you cook at home. The top cavity suits small meals and grilling. The main cavity suits family trays and roasting tins.
Combined Capacity Considerations
Double ovens often show a higher total capacity than a single oven. The total is split between two cavities. A large roasting tray still needs to fit the main cavity.
If you cook large joints, a big roasting tin, or a turkey, check the main cavity width, height, and shelf spacing. A large single oven can offer more usable space for big items than the main cavity of many double ovens.
Important to Consider
Do not rely on litres alone. Check internal dimensions and the supplied tray sizes.
Sizes & Dimensions
Most UK double ovens are 60 cm wide. Height depends on built-in or built-under. Depth varies by model, plus space for ventilation and cable routing.
Internal Capacity Breakdown
| Double Oven Type | Top Cavity | Main Cavity | Total Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in Double Oven | About 30 to 45 litres | About 55 to 65 litres | About 90 to 110 litres |
| Built-under Double Oven | About 30 to 40 litres | About 45 to 55 litres | About 75 to 95 litres |
| Single Oven | Not applicable | About 65 to 75 litres | About 65 to 75 litres |
Measuring Tip
Measure your largest roasting tin and baking tray. Compare with internal dimensions in the product sheet.
Gas vs Electric Double Ovens
Electric double ovens dominate the UK market. Gas double ovens exist, yet model choice is limited and features are often simpler.
| Feature | Electric Double Oven | Gas Double Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Wider choice | Limited choice. (Being phase out due to air pollution and climate concerns). |
| Heat distribution | Fan cooking is common in the main cavity | Heat rises, so temperature varies more across shelves |
| Controls | Timers and clear temperature settings are common | Controls are often simpler |
| Grill | Electric element grill is common | Gas grill exists on some models |
| Installation | Electrical connection required | Gas Safe engineer required |
Gas Installation Requirement
Gas ovens require installation by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Features & Functions
Double ovens cover the everyday essentials. Feature choice is often narrower than single ovens, so check the product description and the control panel layout.
Fan cooking in the main cavity
Fan cooking circulates heat for more even results. It suits baking and roasting on more than one shelf.
Top cavity grill
The grill usually sits in the top cavity. Look for variable grill settings for small and large portions.
Conventional heat
Top and bottom heat without a fan. Many people use it for baking where they want less air movement.
Timers
Timers range from a simple minute minder to start and finish programming. Check the timer type before you buy.
Defrost setting
Some models circulate cool air to defrost food. It speeds up thawing without cooking the surface.
Catalytic liners
Some double ovens use catalytic panels on the cavity walls. They reduce grease build-up on those surfaces. Door glass still needs manual cleaning.
Features Often Missing in Double Ovens
Many modern features are rare in double ovens. If these features matter, compare with a single oven and a compact oven combination.
| Feature | Availability in Double Ovens | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Pyrolytic self-cleaning | Rare | Single ovens, some compact ovens |
| Steam cooking | Not common | Steam compact oven |
| WiFi and app control | Rare | Modern single ovens |
| Air fry mode | Not common | Single oven with air fry mode or countertop air fryer |
Feature Tip
Pick the layout first, then pick features. A double oven solves temperature clashes. A single plus compact setup often adds more cooking modes.
Installation Requirements
Installation planning prevents most problems. Focus on the cut-out size, ventilation clearances, and the electrical connection type.
Electrical Connection
Many double ovens use a fixed electrical connection. Some models are supplied with a plug. The power rating and the installation guide determine the correct setup.
| Connection Type | Typical For | What to Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed connection | Many double ovens | Cooker connection unit and an accessible isolation switch |
| Plug connection | Some models with lower power ratings | An accessible socket position that does not sit directly behind the oven body |
Always Check Specifications
Confirm the power rating and the connection method before you buy. Use a qualified electrician for fixed wiring and circuit work.
Cabinet Requirements
Double ovens rely on airflow routes defined in the installation guide. Follow the clearances at the back, sides, and base of the unit.
Colour Options
Finish choice is often narrower than single ovens. Stainless steel and black are the most common.
Stainless Steel
Popular and practical. It pairs well with many other appliances.
Black
Modern look. Check whether the finish is matt, gloss, or black glass.
White
Traditional look. Availability varies by brand.
Graphite or Dark Steel
Less common in double ovens. Compare finishes in person when colour matching matters.
Colour Availability
Finish shades vary between brands. Match brands when you want a uniform look across multiple appliances.
Price Guide
Prices vary by brand, installation type, controls, and finishes. These ranges guide budgeting for most UK projects.
Budget
£300 to £550
- Basic electric double oven
- Fan cooking in the main cavity
- Simple controls and timers
- Enamel interiors
Mid-Range
£550 to £900
- Improved displays and timer functions
- More cooking modes on some models
- Catalytic liners on some models
- Better fit and finish
Premium
£900 to £1,400+
- More built-in options
- Higher grade finishes
- Telescopic rails on some models
- Stronger control features
Worth Knowing
Installation costs sit outside the oven price. Electrical work cost varies by access and circuit needs. Get an electrician quote early when you replace an older oven.
Your Double Oven Buying Checklist
Use this checklist before you buy. It reduces fitting mistakes and avoids disappointment on capacity.
Essential Considerations
Continue Your Kitchen Journey
Browse more appliance guides and kitchen layouts to plan a kitchen that works in daily life.