Rethinking the oven in summer: a smarter way to cook

15/07/2025

If you live in a country with hot summers—almost every country these days—you probably choose not to use the oven in summer, even though we cannot find a reason why. Probably, you think using it will raise the temperature in your kitchen at home, or perhaps your own temperature. But here’s the twist: your oven could actually be your secret summer sidekick, even when the sun is blazing like you’re on a Mediterranean beach. And we’re here to tell you why.

Teka's NEO series oven in stainless steel finish

Modern vs. Old oven models

Let’s face it—your 15-year-old fridge doesn’t cool quite like your mate’s shiny new one. Ovens are no different. Modern ovens are packed with smart technology, better energy efficiency, and excellent insulation. That means less heat leaks out into your kitchen, and more stays where it’s supposed to—inside. Some newer models even have clever features like low-temperature cooking modes or built-in fans to keep things cool on the outside. So using your oven in summer isn’t the sweaty ordeal it used to be.

Roasting a tray of veggies in a modern oven won’t heat your entire flat. Meanwhile, with an old one, you might feel like you’ve opened the gates of Mount Doom.

Teka's NEO series oven and microwave build in column and open besides a window with urban landscape

Comfortable summer cooking

Older ovens were notorious for heating the whole room, which, fair enough, felt rather cosy in the winter. But modern ovens are designed with comfort and energy efficiency in mind. Thanks to better insulation, far less heat escapes into your kitchen (which also makes it safer, by the way). This means you can roast, bake, or grill without ending up drenched in sweat like you have just run a marathon.

Many newer models also heat up much faster, letting you cook quickly and cut down the time your kitchen is warm. A win-win. And then there’s the magic of presets. No more checking your lasagne every five minutes. Just select the right function—fish, meat, pizza, you name it—and let the oven handle the rest. You get perfect results and more time to sit back with a cold drink. Preferably in front of a fan.

Teka's NEO series oven open with ThermoSeal insulation seal

Lighter meals, smarter cooking

Summer meals tend to be lighter—think grilled vegetables, roasted fish, baked fruit, or quick flatbreads. There’s more to life than just salads, in case you hadn’t noticed. And this is where ovens with multi-function cooking modes truly shine. With precise heat control and rapid preheating, you can prepare meals efficiently while saving on energy.

Many modern ovens now include clever extras like AirFry or steam cooking modes, giving you healthier options with minimal fuss. These features are ideal for hot days when you are chasing flavour without the effort…or the heatwave.

Touch control panels and smart timers give you full command of your cooking, helping to prevent overheating both in the oven and in you. It all adds up to faster, safer, and more efficient meal prep. And don’t forget the glass doors with better lighting. You can check your food without opening the door every two minutes, meaning the heat stays in the oven, not floating around your kitchen.

Modern ovens keep the kitchen cooler (surprisingly)

Modern ovens are designed with better insulation and improved airflow. Unlike the models of yesteryear, they don’t turn your entire kitchen into a sauna. More efficient cooking comes with plenty of perks, and here’s a big one: ovens are brilliant for batch cooking. You can prepare multiple dishes at once or reheat leftovers in the same space. Less time cooking, fewer pans to wash, and more time enjoying your meal. Lovely.

White modern open concept kitchen with Teka hob, hood, oven, and microwave

Energy matters

In summer, most homes are already running fans or air conditioners to keep cool. So saving energy in the kitchen becomes even more important. Many of today’s ovens are A-rated for energy efficiency. That means you get all the cooking power without the guilt or the scary electricity bill. You can still roast your favourite dishes and keep your carbon footprint under control.

Built-in microwave and oven from the NEO series by Teka in a white kitchen

Thinking about buying an oven? Summer is the right time

Summer can be one of the best times to buy an oven. It is not exactly a seasonal product, so retailers often run promotions or discounts. Plus, installers tend to be less busy than in autumn or winter, so everything is quicker and easier. And there’s another bonus—you’ve got time to practise. Perfect your sourdough, master a Sunday roast, or become the veggie champion before the holiday season arrives.

So, if you’ve been avoiding your oven in summer, it might be time to think again. The right oven doesn’t just work in winter: it works with you, every day of the year.