Mini oven is a multifunctional indispensable assistant in the kitchen, which has modes of warming up, grilling, toaster, defrosting, or can simply be used as an oven. This device is suitable for both home use, especially in the absence of a built-in oven, and for use in "field" conditions, for example, when going to the dacha.
Volume of
This is the main characteristic, which should be guided by those who need to choose a mini-oven. There are models with very different parameters, from 8.5 to 40 liters. The size of the equipment largely depends on the volume. If a mini-oven is needed for warming up, as well as cooking hot sandwiches, then small models with a capacity of 8.5 liters are quite suitable. In addition, they are compact and mobile, respectively, ideal for use in the country or for kitchens that are small in size.
But many buyers choose the models of medium size, the volume of which varies from 14 to 24 liters. They are suitable for baking and other dishes. This volume allows you to prepare a dinner or dinner for 3-4 people. For a large family it is better to buy a three-dimensional mini-oven.
Power
The higher such a characteristic as power, the more functional the electric oven is. Due to this, the cooking time is reduced, and the possibilities of the device are expanded. But the energy consumption and the load on the network are increasing. Those who have problems with wiring in the house, mini-ovens with high power are not recommended, since it is not a fact that it will be possible to fully use the device. Optimum models with an average power of about 1000 watts.
Modes of operation
Before choosing a mini oven, you need to look at the availability of different modes of technology. Their presence can greatly simplify the cooking process. The number of modes depends on how many heating elements are in the oven. There may be one or two, upper and lower. In the latter case, they work both simultaneously and in turn. In other words, a mini oven is equipped with an upper or lower heat, as well as a uniform heating.
In addition, the device can have a defrosting mode. He enjoys well-deserved popularity among housewives, as it saves time. There are mini ovens with convection. This function is the work of a small fan, which distributes the air flow evenly during cooking around the whole dish. Convection is especially convenient for those who are fond of cooking baking, since it allows not only to shorten the time of the process, but also to make the product more tender and airy.
Additional functions of
Almost all models are equipped with an electronic timer. This convenient function will allow the hostess not to worry about turning off the dish in time, as the device will automatically shut down after the required time. There are mini-ovens, the top cover of which is removed. They can be used as a brazier in case there is a lower fever.
Interior coating
Proper care of the equipment is important. To do this, pay attention to the interior coating of the mini-oven. It should be a material that is not only resistant to high temperatures, but also perfectly tolerating mechanical damage, scratches. It is desirable that it can easily remove grease and other contaminants. Thus, the inner surface of some models is covered with a special polymer material Durastone, which has non-stick characteristics and is resistant to damage.
There are models equipped with a lower pull out tray, so it will be convenient to remove the crumbs. In addition, droplets of fat will flow here. The pallet is suitable for washing in a dishwasher. The doors of the mini-oven can be equipped with a patch made of heat-insulating material or made of double tempered glass. This is done to avoid burns while using the equipment.
Control methods
The control can be electronic or mechanical. In the first case, the modes are switched on a special touch panel. On the one hand, such models are convenient and easy to manage. On the other hand, their cost will be higher than that of analogues. Mechanical control is a rotary switch, which sets the time or the desired temperature.
Appearance
The design of the mini oven for many users is not the least. It depends, for the most part, on the preferences of the housewives. In stores, this household appliance is found not only in various designs, but also in a variety of colors. So, the mini-oven panel can be made either in classic white or black, as well as in bright colors or in a restrained gray scale.
When buying a mini oven in the first place, of course, you should proceed from the budget that you expect to spend on equipment. After the amount has been determined, calculate the volume required for the purposes with which the electric oven will be used. Today, there is a wide range of equipment of this kind on the market, so if you know what you want, then there will not be any special problems.
