As with cooktops the most important consideration in choosing an oven is deciding the kind of cleaning method you want. The common choices are standard cleaning, continuous cleaning, and self cleaning units.

• Self cleaning models have high-heat cycles, with temperatures reaching as high as 1,000 degrees. The heat burns the oven soil and grime into a powdery gray ash that can be cleaned up with a damp cloth or sponge. The oven is locked during the cleaning cycle making the process relatively safe. There is also a special porcelain enamel on the inside walls of the oven and a door has a special seal to withstand the high temperatures.

• Continuous cleaning models have oven walls that have been treated with a soil oxidizing catalyst that works while the oven is at normal temperatures. This method is not always as effective as a self cleaning oven but these models are usually less expensive since the need for a high heat cycle is eliminated.

• Standard cleaning ovens must be cleaned by manually using a commercial oven cleaning product or soap and water. Some of these types of ovens have a removable door or even a removable bottom to make the cleaning job easier.

  There are now natural gas ovens available with convection heating. These models use a small fan to move the hot air around the inside of the oven to speed up the cooking process. However these convection ovens are usually more expensive than the traditional models.

  Another feature to consider when looking at gas ovens is the location of the broiler. In standard models the broiler is located in a drawer below the oven. In self cleaning ovens it sits at the top of the oven where it is within easy reach.

  The interior capacity of the oven is another decision.  You will find that units with the same outside measurements can sometimes vary significantly with the amount of space inside.  Consider how your family will use the oven to gauge how much capacity you will need.

  One thing that should not be overlooked on the oven is the door itself.  Try it out and and see if it opens and closes smoothly or if it feels overly stiff and slams shut.  Remember you will probably be doing this simple action many times.  While the door is open examine the racks and make sure they look like they can provide enough support for heavy roasts and turkeys.

Next step is getting acquainted with the stove's use and safety tips...