Kitchen Appliances Guide
Everything you need to know about choosing, sizing and fitting kitchen appliances — from ovens and hobs to refrigeration and dishwashers.
Ovens
The oven is the centrepiece of any kitchen. Understanding the different types, fuel sources and installation options ensures you choose one that suits your cooking style and your kitchen layout.
Single Oven
The most common choice for average households. A single built-in oven sits within a tall unit or below the hob and typically offers 60–75 litres of capacity.
- Ideal for: 1–3 person households
- Standard width: 60cm
- Typical capacity: 60–75L
- Installation: Built-in or under-counter
Double Oven
Two separate cavities — a main oven below and a smaller top oven/grill above. Perfect for families who cook multiple dishes simultaneously.
- Ideal for: Families of 4+
- Standard width: 60cm
- Main cavity: 65–80L, top cavity: 30–45L
- Installation: Tall housing unit required
Fan (Convection) Oven
A fan circulates hot air for even cooking at lower temperatures. Most modern ovens are fan-assisted. Reduces cooking time by around 10–20%.
- Even heat distribution across all shelves
- Lower temperatures needed (−20°C vs conventional)
- Ideal for batch baking and multi-shelf cooking
Microwave Combination Oven
Combines microwave, grill and conventional oven functions in one unit. Space-saving and versatile, popular in smaller kitchens.
- Typical capacity: 25–45L
- Can replace separate microwave and oven
- Installation: Built-in niche or on worktop
Steam Oven
Injects steam to retain moisture and nutrients. Popular in premium kitchens. Can be standalone or combined with a conventional oven.
- Ideal for: Health-conscious cooking
- Retains more vitamins and minerals than conventional
- Requires plumbing or manual water tank
Range Cooker
Freestanding large-format cooker with dual ovens and a wide hob. A statement piece available in gas, electric and dual-fuel configurations.
- Widths: 90cm, 100cm, 110cm, 120cm
- Multiple burners/zones (5–7)
- Installation: Freestanding, no housing unit needed
Built-in ovens at eye level are ergonomically superior — no bending to check on food. If using a double oven in a tall unit, position the main oven at waist-to-eye height and use the top cavity for grilling.
Hobs
Your hob is used every day, so choosing the right type and size is critical. The main options are gas, electric ceramic, induction and solid plate — each with distinct advantages.
Induction Hob
Uses electromagnetic fields to heat the pan directly — not the hob surface. Extremely fast, energy-efficient and safe to touch. The fastest-growing hob type in the UK.
- Fastest heating: boils water in ~2 minutes
- 90%+ energy efficient vs 40% for gas
- Requires induction-compatible cookware (magnetic base)
- Easy to clean — spills don't burn on
Gas Hob
Traditional open flame for instant heat control. Favoured by professional cooks for visual flame feedback. Requires a gas supply and appropriate ventilation.
- Instant and precise heat control
- Works with all cookware types
- Requires gas supply (natural gas or LPG)
- More difficult to clean around burners
Ceramic Electric Hob
Smooth glass surface with radiant electric elements underneath. Easier to clean than gas. Slower to heat and cool than induction, but no special cookware required.
- Works with all flat-bottomed cookware
- Smooth surface, easy to wipe clean
- Slower heat response than gas or induction
- Zone indicator lights show residual heat
Gas-on-Glass Hob
Gas burners mounted on a smooth glass surface — the best of both worlds. Easier to clean than traditional gas, with the responsive heat control of an open flame.
- Glass surface easier to clean than enamel
- Full gas performance and control
- Requires gas supply
Domino Hobs
Compact 30cm modular hobs designed to be combined side by side. Mix and match — e.g. induction + gas + teppanyaki — for a custom cooking station.
- Each unit: 30cm wide
- Combine 2–3 units in a wider cut-out
- Great for kitchen islands
Hob Sizes Guide
If you value precision and speed, induction wins hands down. If you cook with woks, require an open flame or already have a gas supply, gas remains a brilliant choice. Dual-fuel range cookers (gas hob + electric oven) are a popular compromise.
Cooker Hoods & Extraction
Extraction removes steam, grease and cooking odours from your kitchen. The right extractor depends on your hob position, ceiling height and whether you can duct to the outside.
Chimney Hood
The classic wall-mounted extractor with a chimney stack running up to the ceiling. Available in stainless steel, glass and painted finishes.
- Position: Above hob on a wall
- Widths: 60cm, 70cm, 90cm
- Ducted or recirculating options
Island Hood
Ceiling-mounted extractor designed for kitchen islands. Hangs above the hob as a centrepiece. Often a design statement in open-plan kitchens.
- Hung from ceiling joists
- Requires ceiling ducting
- Typically 90cm–120cm wide
Integrated / Built-in Hood
Concealed inside a cabinet above the hob with a pull-out visor. Completely hidden when not in use — ideal for minimalist kitchens.
- Hidden in overhead unit
- Visor extends when cooking
- Less powerful than chimney hoods
Downdraft Extractor
Rises from behind or beside the hob, pulling steam downward. Ideal when overhead extraction isn't possible (e.g. under a roof lantern or skylights).
- Motor rises when activated
- Suits island and peninsula hobs
- Ducting runs under the floor
Extraction Rates
Extraction power is measured in m³/hr (cubic metres per hour). As a guide:
- Small kitchen: 300–500 m³/hr
- Medium kitchen: 500–700 m³/hr
- Large kitchen / range cooker: 700–1000+ m³/hr
- Multiply kitchen volume × 10 for minimum extraction
Ducted vs Recirculating
Ducted: Vents air outside via a duct — most effective. Requires route to external wall or roof.
Recirculating: Filters air through charcoal and returns it to the kitchen. No ducting needed but less effective — charcoal filters need replacing every 6 months.
Refrigeration
Modern kitchen refrigeration goes far beyond a basic fridge-freezer. From American-style side-by-sides to fully integrated wine coolers, there’s a solution for every kitchen size and lifestyle.
Integrated Fridge-Freezer
Concealed behind a cabinet door matching the rest of the kitchen. The most popular choice for fitted kitchens as it creates a seamless look.
- Standard widths: 54cm or 60cm
- Split ratios: 70/30 or 50/50
- Frost-free recommended for convenience
American-Style Fridge-Freezer
Side-by-side fridge and freezer in a large freestanding unit. Typically features ice and water dispensers. Makes a statement in larger kitchens.
- Typical width: 90cm
- Capacity: 500–700L total
- Often includes water/ice dispenser (plumbing required)
Wine Cooler
Temperature-controlled storage for wine at the optimal 7–18°C. Available as undercounter integrated units or freestanding towers.
- Single zone (one temperature) for serving
- Dual zone (two temperatures) for cellaring + serving
- Capacities: 12 to 200+ bottles
Drawer Refrigeration
Refrigerated drawers that integrate beneath worktops — popular in islands and as secondary storage. Keep drinks, snacks or fresh produce at point of use.
- Standard heights: 30cm or 45cm
- Width: 60cm typically
- Can be combined: 2× drawers in one unit
Since 2021, appliances use the A–G EU energy label. An A-rated fridge-freezer uses significantly less electricity than older A+++ models. Look for at least a C or D rating as a minimum — the running cost difference over 10 years can be hundreds of pounds.
Dishwashers
A dishwasher is one of the most-used appliances in any kitchen. Key decisions are size, integration level and the wash programme features you actually need.
Fully Integrated
Door panel matches your kitchen units. No visible controls from the front — buttons are on the top edge of the door. The cleanest look for fitted kitchens.
- Standard width: 60cm (13 place settings)
- Controls on door top edge
- Requires cabinet door panel
Semi-Integrated
Has a matching panel on the lower portion of the door but visible controls at the top. A popular mid-ground between integrated and freestanding.
- Controls visible at top of door
- Partial panel to match units
Slimline Dishwasher
45cm wide rather than 60cm — ideal for smaller kitchens or single/couple households. Holds around 9 place settings.
- Width: 45cm
- Capacity: 9 place settings
- Same height as standard units
Key Features to Look For
- Half-load setting — saves water and energy
- Delay timer — run overnight on cheaper electricity
- Intensive zone — extra power for bottom rack pots
- Third rack / cutlery tray — more loading flexibility
- AutoDos — auto-dispenses detergent capsules (Bosch/Siemens)
- Noise level — look for under 44dB for open-plan kitchens
Washing Machines & Tumble Dryers
In many UK homes, the washing machine lives in the kitchen. Integrated options keep the look tidy while modern washer-dryers save space when a separate utility room isn’t available.
Integrated Washing Machine
Sits behind a kitchen cabinet door for a seamless look. Standard 60cm width fits a standard base unit. Requires plumbing connections at the rear.
- Standard width: 60cm
- Load: 7kg, 8kg, 9kg, 10kg
- Integrated door panel required
Washer-Dryer Combo
Washes and dries in one unit — ideal where space is tight and a separate utility room isn’t available. Drying capacity is typically half the wash capacity.
- Wash 8kg / Dry 4–5kg typically
- No extra space required
- Longer cycle times than separate appliances
Heat Pump Dryer
Uses a heat pump rather than a heating element — up to 50% more energy efficient than vented or condenser dryers. More expensive upfront but significantly cheaper to run.
- A+++ energy rated
- No external venting required
- Gentler on fabrics than vented dryers
Major Appliance Brands
The UK market offers appliances at every price point, from budget supermarket own-brands to German engineering icons. Here’s a guide to the key players and what they’re known for.
Miele
German engineering at its finest. Built to last 20+ years. Outstanding after-sales service. Best for ovens, dishwashers and washing machines.
AEG
Swedish-owned, manufactured in Europe. Excellent build quality, strong in induction hobs and ComfortLift ovens. Part of the Electrolux group.
Neff
Part of BSH Group. Famous for the Slide&Hide oven door and CircoTherm fan system. Popular with kitchen designers for premium fitted kitchens.
Gaggenau
Ultra-premium German appliances. Used in Michelin-star restaurant-inspired home kitchens. The benchmark for luxury performance.
Smeg
Italian design-led appliances in bold retro colours. Popular for statement fridges and range cookers. Strong aesthetic, reliable performance.
V-Zug
Swiss premium brand. Best-in-class steam ovens and combi-steam appliances. Often specified in ultra-high-end new builds.
Bosch
Part of BSH Group. Outstanding reliability, great value. The most trusted mid-range brand in the UK. Excellent dishwashers and ovens.
Siemens
BSH sibling to Bosch with a slightly more premium positioning. Home Connect app integration, excellent hobs and ovens.
Samsung
Korean tech giant with strong refrigeration and range cooker offerings. American-style fridge-freezers and smart appliances with Wi-Fi connectivity.
LG
Strong in American-style refrigeration and washing machines. InstaView fridge-freezers (see inside without opening) are a standout feature.
Rangemaster
The UK’s best-known range cooker brand. Wide range of styles and fuel types at accessible prices. Strong resale value.
Zanussi / Electrolux
Reliable workhorse appliances at mid-range prices. Part of the same group as AEG, with many shared components.
Hotpoint / Indesit
Whirlpool-owned brands offering budget-friendly options. Good for rental properties and budget renovations. Wide availability of spare parts.
Beko
Turkish-owned brand offering impressive energy efficiency at low prices. Good warranties, growing reputation for reliability.
Hisense
Chinese electronics giant now one of the fastest-growing appliance brands in the UK. American-style fridge-freezers at very competitive prices.
Installation Guide
Getting the installation right is as important as choosing the right appliance. Here’s a breakdown of what’s involved for each main appliance type.
| Appliance | Connection Type | Who Installs | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Oven | Dedicated 13A or 32A circuit (depending on wattage) | NICEIC registered electrician | Most built-in ovens need a hardwired 32A connection — not a standard plug socket. Check your fuseboard capacity. |
| Gas Hob / Oven | Gas supply + flexible hose connection | Gas Safe registered engineer | All gas appliance installations must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Never DIY. |
| Induction Hob | Dedicated 32A circuit | NICEIC registered electrician | Requires a 32A cooker circuit. Cut-out must match hob dimensions exactly — check manufacturer specs. Minimum clearance from hob edge to sink/walls. |
| Integrated Fridge-Freezer | Standard 13A socket | Kitchen fitter / DIY possible | Ventilation is critical — integrated models require specific ventilation slots in the housing unit. Never block vents. Frost-free models need a drain point. |
| Dishwasher | Hot or cold water supply + waste outlet + 13A socket | Kitchen fitter / plumber | Most modern dishwashers connect to cold water only. Needs a waste connection to the sink trap or dedicated standpipe. 13A plug socket required. |
| Washing Machine | Hot + cold water supply + waste outlet + 13A socket | Kitchen fitter / plumber | Requires both hot and cold water connections (or cold-fill only on modern machines). Needs anti-vibration feet levelling. Drum bolts must be removed before use. |
| Cooker Hood (Ducted) | 13A socket + 100mm–150mm duct to outside | Kitchen fitter + electrician | Plan duct route before kitchen installation begins. Duct should be as straight and short as possible. Every bend reduces extraction efficiency by ~20%. |
| Range Cooker | Gas: Gas Safe + 13A (electrics). Electric: 32A+ circuit | Gas Safe engineer + electrician | Weight can exceed 120kg — floor must be reinforced or additional support provided. Requires minimum clearances to walls and overhead units. |
In England and Wales, replacing an electric oven like-for-like does not require building regulations notification. However, a new circuit or moving an existing circuit does require notification to Building Control or use of a Part P registered electrician. Always check with your local council for current requirements.
Smart & Connected Appliances
Wi-Fi-connected appliances now offer remote control, diagnostics and integration with smart home platforms. Here’s what to look for if you want a future-ready kitchen.
App Control
Control your oven, dishwasher or washing machine from your smartphone. Start programmes remotely, receive alerts when a cycle finishes and monitor energy usage.
- Bosch/Siemens: Home Connect app
- AEG: My AEG app
- Samsung: SmartThings
- LG: ThinQ app
Voice Control
Compatible appliances can be controlled via Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri. Preheat the oven, check if the dishwasher has finished or adjust fridge temperature hands-free.
- Amazon Alexa integration
- Google Home / Assistant
- Apple HomeKit (limited brands)
Self-Diagnosis
Premium smart appliances can run diagnostics and alert you (or even your engineer) when something needs attention — before it becomes a breakdown. Reduces repair call-out costs.
- Miele: MobileControl + AutoDos
- Bosch/Siemens: Home Connect diagnostics
- AEG: Remote diagnostics
Energy Management
Smart tariff integration lets appliances run at off-peak electricity rates automatically. With smart meters and Octopus Agile or similar tariffs, this can cut running costs significantly.
- Schedule dishwasher for overnight off-peak rates
- Monitor real-time energy consumption
- Solar panel integration for self-sufficiency
Appliance Budget Guide
Planning your appliance budget is one of the most important parts of any kitchen renovation. Below is a realistic price guide for the UK market (2024).
| Appliance | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Oven (built-in) | £200–£400 | £400–£800 | £800–£2,500+ |
| Double Oven | £350–£600 | £600–£1,200 | £1,200–£3,500+ |
| Induction Hob (60cm) | £200–£400 | £400–£800 | £800–£2,000+ |
| Gas Hob (60cm) | £150–£300 | £300–£700 | £700–£1,800+ |
| Range Cooker (90cm) | £800–£1,500 | £1,500–£3,000 | £3,000–£10,000+ |
| Cooker Hood | £80–£200 | £200–£600 | £600–£2,500+ |
| Integrated Fridge-Freezer | £300–£500 | £500–£900 | £900–£2,500+ |
| American-Style Fridge-Freezer | £500–£900 | £900–£1,800 | £1,800–£5,000+ |
| Dishwasher (integrated) | £250–£450 | £450–£900 | £900–£2,200+ |
| Washing Machine (integrated) | £250–£450 | £450–£800 | £800–£1,800+ |
As a rough guide, appliances typically account for 15–25% of an overall kitchen renovation budget. On a £20,000 kitchen, expect to spend £3,000–£5,000 on appliances at a mid-range level. If integrating a range cooker or wine cooler, budget upward from there.
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