Considerations for Installing a Double Oven

Installation Challenges

Double ovens are not plug-and-play appliances. Installing one often requires significant kitchen modifications.

Standard kitchen cabinets typically don’t accommodate double ovens, so you might need custom cabinetry or extensive carpentry to create a proper fit.

Refer to the installation specifications for the model that you’re considering to determine what modification you may need to make.

Double ovens also require dedicated electrical wiring to handle their higher power demands. This may necessitate hiring an electrician to upgrade your wiring or breaker box, adding to the overall installation cost.

For older homes, this upgrade might not just be a preference—it could be a necessity.

Additionally, double ovens are larger and heavier than single ovens. Transporting and securing them during installation requires careful planning and, often, professional help.

Replacement Difficulties

Replacing a double oven is not as straightforward as swapping out a single oven. Over the years, appliance manufacturers have introduced different dimensions, meaning newer models may not align with your existing cabinet cutout.

If your current double oven fails and the exact size is no longer available, you could be left with two undesirable options:

• Refitting the cabinet space to accommodate a new model, which could involve significant costs.
• Downgrading to a single oven, leaving an awkward gap in your cabinetry that must be covered or filled.

Standardization issues in the appliance industry further exacerbate this problem, leaving homeowners scrambling for solutions that often come with a hefty price tag.

High Costs

Double ovens are expensive. On average, they cost significantly more than single ovens, both in upfront price and installation fees.

Expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for a quality unit. Add in professional installation and possible electrical upgrades, and the total cost can easily surpass $7,000.

This isn’t an appliance you buy on a whim. For many households, the price outweighs the benefits, especially considering alternative solutions like convection microwaves or air fryers that can mimic double oven functionality at a fraction of the cost.

Availability Issues

Despite their appeal to certain homeowners, double ovens remain a niche product. This limited demand means fewer options available in the market. If you’re particular about brand, features, or aesthetics, your choices might be disappointingly narrow.

Supply chain challenges and the specialized nature of double ovens can also lead to longer wait times for delivery. Some models might even be discontinued, forcing you to settle for something less than ideal or postpone your purchase.

Space Consumption

Double ovens take up substantial kitchen space, which can be problematic in smaller or already crowded kitchens. They eliminate valuable storage areas (such as drawers or cabinets) that would otherwise occupy their footprint.

This loss of storage can require additional modifications to the kitchen layout, further increasing the cost and complexity of installation. For many homeowners, the trade-off simply isn’t worth it.

Final Thoughts

While double ovens can be a dream come true for serious cooks or frequent entertainers, they are not without significant disadvantages. From challenging installations and costly replacements to high prices and limited availability, this appliance demands careful consideration.

If you’re contemplating a double oven, start by evaluating your kitchen layout, budget, and cooking needs. In many cases, other solutions—like a combination wall oven and microwave or a convection oven—can deliver similar functionality without the associated hassles.

Take your time, do your research, and make an informed decision. When it comes to appliances, practicality should always trump impulse.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average lifespan of a double oven?

Ovens typically last 15 to 20 years, making them one of the most durable household appliances. Factors such as oven type (gas vs. electric), usage frequency, maintenance habits, and brand quality can influence their lifespan, with gas ovens often outlasting electric ones due to fewer issues with electrical components.

Can you use both ovens on a double oven at the same time?

Yes. You can use both ovens in most double ovens at the same time. Refer to the owner’s manual for limitations if any for your exact model. Some double ovens have shared features such as an oven timer that can only be used for one oven at a time.

Do double ovens need two outlets?

No. Almost all double ovens need only one outlet for a gas or electric model. Most electric double wall ovens are directly hardwired through a junction box to a single dedicated circuit, bypassing the need for a 240-volt electrical outlet.

Do double ovens heat evenly?

Yes. Both ovens in a double oven heat evenly in the same heating mode. Some double ovens only have one convection oven and the second oven is a conventional oven so the convection oven in that duo will cook food faster and more efficiently because of the convection fan airflow.