Understanding Oven & Range Technologies (Convection, Air Fry, Self-Clean)

Thu Aug 28 2025

Appliances

When you're shopping for a new oven or range, you'll quickly notice there’s more to consider than just size and style. Today’s ovens are packed with innovative cooking and cleaning technologies that can save time, improve results, and elevate your experience in the kitchen.

In this guide, we’ll break down some of the most popular oven cooking technologies, including convection ovens, air fry features, self-cleaning functions, steam clean, and even smart oven features, to help you choose the best oven for your needs.

Convection Oven Benefits: Even Baking & Faster Cooking

If you’ve ever had cookies that baked unevenly, you’ll love what convection has to offer. A convection oven or convection range uses a fan to circulate hot air throughout the oven cavity. This creates more consistent heat and eliminates cold spots, resulting in:

Even browning and baking on all racks
Shorter cooking times
Energy savings by cooking at lower temperatures

Convection technology is ideal for roasting meats, baking pastries, and cooking multiple dishes at once. Many models let you toggle convection on and off, so you have the flexibility to choose the best setting for every recipe.

Air Fry Oven vs. Air Fryer: What’s the Difference?

With the rise in popularity of air fryers, many modern ovens now come with a built-in air fry function. But how does it compare to a countertop air fryer?

Air fry ovens use high-heat convection with increased airflow to create crispy textures without deep frying.
They offer more cooking space than standalone air fryers perfect for families or entertaining.
No need for extra appliances cluttering your counters.

If you love crispy fries, wings, and roasted veggies, a range with air fry capability is a great way to combine function and convenience in one appliance.

How Does a Self-Cleaning Oven Work?

A self-cleaning oven might sound too good to be true, but it is such a helpful feature to have in a new oven or range. This feature uses high heat (usually around 800–900°F) to burn off baked-on food and spills. Here’s what to know:

Traditional self-cleaning ovens run a high-temperature cycle that turns residue to ash.
You simply wipe away the ash once the cycle is complete and the oven cools.
The process takes 2–6 hours, depending on the model and level of soil.

Pro tip: Always remove the oven racks before running a self-cleaning cycle unless they’re labeled as self-clean safe.

Steam Clean Oven: A Gentle Alternative

For lighter messes and quicker cleanups, a steam clean oven offers a faster and gentler solution. Here’s how it works:

Add a small amount of water to the bottom of the oven.
The oven heats the water to produce steam, loosening grime and grease.
After the cycle (usually around 30 minutes), wipe the cavity clean with a cloth.

Steam cleaning is energy-efficient, doesn’t produce odors, and is a great option for frequent upkeep between deep cleans.

Smart Oven Features: Modern Convenience

If you're upgrading your kitchen, consider the benefits of a smart oven or smart range. These appliances offer several helpful features that make cooking and appliance maintenance easy. Some of the unique features they can offer include:

Remote preheating and monitoring via smartphone apps.
Voice control integration with Alexa or Google Assistant.
Automatic updates and diagnostic alerts.
Recipe guidance and cooking suggestions.

Smart ovens are especially helpful for busy households, frequent entertainers, and anyone who wants to simplify mealtime with technology.

Choosing the Right Oven for You

If you are ready to shop for a new range or oven, here are a few things to consider.

Cooking habits: Do you roast often, bake large batches, or love crispy foods? A convection oven with air fry may be ideal.
Cleaning preferences: Hate scrubbing? Look for models with both self-clean and steam clean options.
Kitchen space: Wall ovens, freestanding ranges, and slide-ins all offer different configurations.
Tech comfort level: If you're tech-savvy, a smart oven might be a game-changer.

Explore the Best Oven Features at Cullen’s Home Center

At Cullen’s Home Center, we carry a wide selection of wall ovens and ranges from top brands complete with convection, air fry, self-clean, steam clean, Wi-Fi capabilities, and more. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or replacing an older appliance, our experts will help you find the perfect fit for your cooking style and space.

Stop by our appliance store in Alexandria, MN or contact us today to learn more about the latest oven cooking technologies that make mealtime easier and more enjoyable. While you’re here, browse our selection of refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers, range hoods, cooktops, and more.

FAQ: Oven and Range Technologies

Do I need a separate air fryer if my oven has an air fry feature?

In most cases, no. Ovens with built-in air fry functions offer similar results with more cooking space. They’re great for larger batches and eliminate the need for an extra countertop appliance.

How often should I use the self-cleaning feature on my oven?

It depends on how often you cook and how messy your oven gets. Many homeowners run a self-clean cycle every 4–6 months or after major spills. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Is steam cleaning as effective as traditional self-cleaning?

Steam cleaning is best for light messes and quick maintenance. For deep, baked-on grime, traditional high-heat self-cleaning is more effective.

Are smart ovens worth it?

Smart ovens are great for busy households. Features like remote preheating, voice control, and app notifications offer convenience and peace of mind—especially if you’re often multitasking.