When it comes to choosing the right kitchen appliance, understanding the different types of oven is a great place to start. Whether you’re after a single oven, double oven, steam or pyrolytic model, this ovens buying guide will help you compare options and match them to your kitchen layout, fuel type, and cooking habits.
From oven dimensions and smart tech to cooking times and energy use, this guide walks you through everything you need to know before buying a built-in oven, wall oven or compact kitchen appliance.
Explore the full range of ovens at Bi‑Rite.
Oven Types Explained in 60 Seconds
There are six main types of oven commonly used in Australian kitchens:
Oven Type |
Capacity Range |
Cooking Modes |
Install Type |
Price Band |
Single Oven |
60–90 L |
Bake, grill, fan |
Built-in or wall |
$$ |
Double Oven |
90–120 L total |
Multi-course cook |
Built-in or wall |
$$$ |
Compact Oven |
30–50 L |
Microwave, bake |
Built-in/Benchtop |
$–$$ |
Steam Oven |
30–70 L |
Steam, combi modes |
Built-in |
$$$–$$$$ |
Pyrolytic Oven |
60–90 L |
Self-cleaning cycle |
Built-in |
$$$–$$$$ |
Combination Oven |
40–70 L |
Fan, microwave, grill |
Built-in |
$$$ |
Oven Dimensions: What You Need to Know
Choosing the right oven starts with understanding standard oven dimensions. Most built-in or wall ovens in Australia follow these measurements:
- 60 cm – standard built-in ovens (595 H × 595 W × 570 D mm)
- 70–75 cm – wider cavities for larger cooking space
- 90 cm – premium, high-capacity ovens (595 H × 895 W × 570 D mm)
- 45 cm – compact ovens for small kitchens or extra functionality
Depth is typically around 560–580 mm, but always check installation specs and allow a 5–10 mm ventilation gap as per AS/NZS 60335.

Measuring Your Space: Step-by-Step
Before purchasing, measure your space carefully to avoid fitment issues.
Checklist:
- Cabinet width and height
- Oven depth with clearance
- Electrical or gas connection location
- Ventilation space at the top and back of the cavity
- Oven door swing clearance
- Proximity to other kitchen appliances
Replacing an older oven? Consider compact or combination models if the existing cavity is smaller than standard.

Gas vs Electric Ovens: Which Fuel Type Suits You?
Choosing between gas and electric ovens depends on how and what you cook.
Feature |
Electric Ovens |
Gas Ovens |
Fuel types |
10 A or 15 A circuits |
LPG or natural gas |
Heat method |
Hot air from heating elements |
Open flame, direct heat |
Cooking times |
More consistent, slower start |
Quick heat-up, ideal for roasting |
Energy use |
Steady, sometimes lower |
Cheaper if gas is connected |
Installation |
Easier (electrician only) |
Requires licensed gas fitter |
Oven options |
More brands, features, sizes |
Fewer models on the market |
Bi‑Rite stocks a range of both electric ovens and gas ovens.
Single vs Double Ovens: Pros, Cons & Who They Suit
Single ovens are perfect for everyday cooking, while double ovens give you more flexibility for multi-dish meals.
Feature |
Single Oven |
Double Oven |
Capacity |
60–90 L |
Up to 120 L total |
Energy use |
~2.5 kWh per bake |
~4.5 kWh full usage |
Ideal for |
Small families, couples |
Entertainers, large families |
Kitchen layout |
Compact or galley |
L-shape, open plan |
Browse single ovens or double ovens
Pyrolytic Self‑Cleaning: Worth the Upgrade?
Pyrolytic ovens clean themselves by heating to over 400 °C and reducing food residue to ash.
- Cycle time: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Energy use: Up to 3 kWh
- Safety: Child locks, cool-touch oven doors
- Maintenance: Just wipe ash after cycle
If you hate scrubbing oven walls or using harsh chemicals, it's a game changer.
Shop pyrolytic single ovens or pyrolytic double ovens
Compact & Combination Ovens for Small Spaces
Compact and combination ovens offer big performance in a small footprint:
- Steam ovens retain moisture and nutrients
- Microwave + convection combos are perfect for quick meals
- Benchtop models suit renters or tight spaces
- Built-in compact ovens blend into cabinetry
Great for small households, secondary cooking spaces or busy weeknight dinners.
View compact ovens
Matching Your Oven to Your Kitchen Layout
Your kitchen layout and cabinetry will shape your oven choice:
- Wall ovens allow for higher installation and reduce bending
- Built-in ovens fit seamlessly into under-bench or tower configurations
- Freestanding ovens include cooktops but take up more space
- Stainless steel finishes are durable and easy to match with other kitchen appliances
- Cooking space in open-plan kitchens supports wider or double ovens
Always plan your layout around usability, clearance and appliance workflow.
Energy Efficiency, Features & Smart Tech
Today’s ovens are packed with features that reduce energy use and make cooking easier:
- Hot air fan cooking reduces cooking times
- Rapid preheat modes save time
- Meat probes prevent overcooking
- Telescopic runners make trays safer to handle
- Wi‑Fi smart ovens let you preheat or monitor meals remotely
- Steam functions for cooking and easier cleaning.
Some states offer rebates on efficient electric and steam ovens. Check your local eligibility before buying.
Installation & Compliance Checklist
Installing a new oven? Make sure to:
- Use a licensed electrician for electric ovens
- Hire a licensed gas fitter for gas installations
- Check for 15 A circuits if needed
- Maintain airflow and ventilation as per AS/NZS 60335
- Ensure safe clearances around oven doors
Keep all instruction manuals, safety certificates and warranty cards in a safe place.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Life of Your Oven
Regular upkeep will improve performance and help your oven last longer:
- Wipe spills immediately to prevent baked-on residue
- Check oven door seals for heat loss
- Use steam-clean or eco clean modes between pyrolytic cycles
- Avoid steel wool or abrasive cleaners on enamel surfaces
- Leave oven doors open slightly after use to release moisture
Shop the Best Ovens at Bi‑Rite
Looking for a great ovens offer? Bi‑Rite has a wide range of single, double, wall and built-in ovens — including electric, gas and pyrolytic models. All handpicked for performance, safety and value.
Compare on Bi‑Rite to find the perfect kitchen appliance for your space and budget.
FAQs: Quick Answers on Oven Buying
What capacity oven do I need for a family of four?
A 70–90 L single oven is usually enough. Bigger families or entertainers may prefer a double oven.
Are pyrolytic ovens safe for kids and pets?
Yes. They lock automatically and have cool-touch oven doors.
Can I replace a 600 mm oven with a 900 mm model?
Only if your cabinet cavity allows it. Wider ovens need more space and ventilation.
Do double ovens use more power?
They can, especially when both cavities are running. But they offer more flexibility for batch cooking.
What’s the difference between built-in and wall ovens?
Both are integrated models. “Wall oven” just refers to units mounted higher in cabinetry to reduce bending.