A convection oven uses one or more fans to circulate air within the cooking chamber, and various factors determine an oven's purchase price. Some of the factors include the size of the appliance, the features it has, and whether it is a combination oven, such as a microwave-convection oven. Often well-known brand names command a higher price than lesser-known brands, and commercial-grade appliances are more costly than residential-grade appliances. The warranty features frequently affect the price of appliances.
Noncommercial convection ovens usually are sold as combination appliances, such as a microwave or toaster oven with convection fans. Some companies offer wall ovens or ranges with convection ovens. Generally, combination ovens are more expensive, but they offer more flexibility for the cook. Childproof safety features, such as control locks, usually raise the price.
In commercial applications, the price may range from several hundred to tens of thousands of U.S. dollars. A few of the features that raise the price include the heating technology, which may include thermal heating, microwave elements, or halogen heating bulbs. Some of these technologies allow the cook to preheat the oven faster, cook faster, and use a variety of heating techniques in the same appliance.
One of the newer technologies is the multiple pre-programmed settings that allow a cook to select a specific type of heating. This may include even baking for breads and other pastries, baking pizzas with individual upper and lower heating control, and vented cooking for meats. Although this technology is helpful for the kitchen staff, it adds to the price of a convection oven.
The size of the oven chamber and the ease of use are two other factors that can affect the price of a convection oven. Generally, non-commercial ovens have a minimal choice in the size range, but commercial ovens vary greatly. Ovens may have a single access door or double doors. One costly feature is telescoping racks that extend out of the oven when the cook opens the doors. This is a safety feature that prevents the user from reaching into the hot oven to pull the racks out.
Other features that add to the price of a convection oven include electronic touch pad controls, digital displays, and programmable controls. Less expensive ovens often have manual controls and limited displays, such as rotary dial timers and non-digital temperature gauges. Convection ovens may be full-sized ovens, half-sized, or small counter top models. The larger ovens typically cost more than the smaller ones.
Full-sized ovens may be wall models, positioned under a range, or freestanding. The price of a convection oven that is freestanding is generally higher than the wall model style. Freestanding ovens may have wheels for ease of cleaning and repositioning or may be stationary. Usually wheeled versions are more expensive. In general, extra features affect the price of a convection oven.