Convection Vs Conventional Ovens: Which Is Best For Your LA Home

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel or shopping for a new oven in Los Angeles, choosing between a convection and conventional oven is a decision that can shape how you cook every day. From preparing family dinners in the Valley to hosting dinner parties in West LA, having the right oven makes a world of difference. But what exactly are the differences between convection and conventional ovens—and which one fits your lifestyle and cooking needs? At Waadt Appliance in Los Angeles, we help homeowners across Southern California navigate these decisions every day. Here’s what you need to know about convection vs. conventional ovens, and how to choose the best option for your LA home.

Convection Vs Conventional Ovens: Which Is Best For Your LA Home

What Is a Conventional Oven?

A conventional oven, also known as a radiant oven, uses heating elements at the top and bottom to cook food. The heat rises naturally and surrounds your dish, relying on the oven's stationary air to do the work. Conventional ovens are familiar to most home cooks. They are typically easier to operate and more straightforward when it comes to following recipes. They’re a great choice for everyday baking, roasting, and broiling.

Pros of Conventional Ovens:

• Simple to use – no need to adjust cooking times or temperatures

• Ideal for baking cakes, custards, and other delicate items

• Generally more affordable than convection ovens

• Widely available in various sizes and designs

Cons of Conventional Ovens:

• Can create uneven heat distribution

• Hot and cold spots may require rotating dishes for even cooking

• Slightly longer cooking times

• May not be as energy-efficient

What Is a Convection Oven?

A convection oven adds a fan and exhaust system to the standard oven setup. The fan circulates hot air evenly throughout the oven, cooking food faster and more evenly. Many newer models even allow you to toggle the convection fan on or off, offering flexibility between both cooking styles. This technology is especially helpful when roasting meats, baking cookies on multiple racks, or preparing meals that benefit from uniform heat distribution.

Pros of Convection Ovens:

• Cook food more quickly (typically 25% faster than conventional)

• Even heat distribution – great for baking multiple trays

• Better browning and crisping – ideal for roasting vegetables and meats

• Often more energy-efficient due to reduced cooking times

Cons of Convection Ovens:

• Can dry out more delicate baked goods

• May require recipe adjustments (lower temps and shorter times)

• Typically more expensive than conventional ovens

• Some models may be noisier due to the fan

Comparing Cooking Results

Baking

• Conventional ovens shine when baking cakes, muffins, soufflés, and other items that benefit from a stable, moist heat. Many professional bakers prefer conventional ovens for precise control over delicate baked goods.
  
  

• Convection ovens are better for cookies, pastries, and pies where browning and even baking on multiple racks is needed.
  
  

Roasting

• Convection ovens are superior when roasting meats and vegetables. The air circulation helps render fat and crisp skin while keeping the inside juicy.
  
  

Reheating

• Convection ovens reheat food faster and more evenly, making them great for busy families or frequent entertainers.
  
  

When Is a Convection Oven Worth It?

Convection ovens are becoming increasingly popular in homes throughout Los Angeles, especially in neighborhoods where high-end kitchen appliances are expected—like Brentwood, Beverly Hills, and Pacific Palisades. If you love to cook, entertain frequently, or want to make the most of your time in the kitchen, a convection oven is a smart upgrade.

They're also ideal for:

• Busy families who prepare large meals

• Health-conscious home cooks looking to roast instead of fry

• Home bakers making batches of cookies, pastries, or artisan bread

When a Conventional Oven Might Be Best

Conventional ovens are a great choice for LA homeowners who:

• Prefer traditional recipes that don’t need convection adjustments

• Bake delicate goods frequently

• Want a reliable and cost-effective oven

• Live in smaller spaces where a basic oven is more practical

These ovens are especially suitable for apartments or smaller homes in areas like North Hollywood, Echo Park, or Silver Lake, where simpler appliances often make more sense.

Style and Design Considerations for LA Homes

When designing your kitchen in Los Angeles, appliances aren’t just about function—they’re part of your home’s style and value. Convection ovens often come in sleek, modern finishes and smart-enabled options, which appeal to tech-savvy homeowners or those planning a high-end remodel. Conventional ovens, on the other hand, may be more compatible with vintage or traditional kitchens. They’re easier to maintain and typically match with other basic appliance sets. If you’re outfitting an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) or a rental property, a conventional oven might offer the simplicity and affordability that tenants or short-term renters appreciate.

Energy Efficiency in the California Climate

In a state like California, where sustainability and energy costs are key concerns, it’s worth noting that convection ovens use less energy over time. Because they cook food faster and at lower temperatures, convection ovens can reduce your carbon footprint and help save on utility bills.

For homeowners looking to build an eco-friendly kitchen or qualify for certain energy rebates, a convection oven with an ENERGY STAR® rating may be a worthwhile investment.

Smart Oven Features to Consider

Today’s ovens—both conventional and convection—can come with a variety of smart features that enhance convenience and precision. Some popular options include:

• Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control

• Built-in cooking sensors

• Digital displays and programmable settings

• Voice assistant integration (e.g., Alexa or Google Assistant)

For tech-friendly homes in Los Angeles’ Silicon Beach, incorporating smart appliances into your kitchen may even add resale value to your property.

So, Which Oven Is Best for Your LA Home?

Choose a Convection Oven If:

• You roast and bake frequently

• You entertain large groups or cook in large batches

• You’re looking for faster, more efficient cooking

• You’re upgrading a high-end or modern kitchen

Choose a Conventional Oven If:

• You prefer classic baking without adjusting recipes

• You value simplicity and lower upfront costs

• You don’t often cook in large batches

• You’re furnishing a rental or a compact kitchen space

Come to Waadt Appliance Today for Our Selection of Conventional Ovens in Los Angeles, California

At Waadt Appliance, we help Los Angeles homeowners find the perfect oven for their kitchen and lifestyle. Whether you’re a busy professional, an avid home chef, or someone simply looking for a dependable appliance, we offer a curated selection of both conventional and convection ovens from top brands.

Visit our showroom in Van Nuys and explore premium models from GE, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Bosch, and more. Our experienced team can walk you through the features, help you compare options, and make sure you find an oven that fits both your cooking style and your space.

Stop by Waadt Appliance today and discover why LA homeowners have trusted us for over 90 years. From selection to service, we’re here to make your kitchen the heart of your home.