Dual Fuel

A dual fuel freestanding cooker combines the best of two worlds, gas burners on the cooktop for responsive, flame-control cooking, and an electric oven below for consistent, even baking and roasting. At Bing Lee we stock dual fuel freestanding cookers from brands including Smeg, Falcon, Westinghouse and more. Our FAQs below explain how they work and whether one is right for your kitchen.

FAQs

1. What is a dual fuel freestanding cooker?

A dual fuel cooker is a freestanding appliance that uses two different fuel types for the cooktop and oven. Typically this means gas burners on top and an electric oven below. Some dual fuel models pair an induction cooktop with a gas or electric oven, though this is less common. The appeal is that you get the best cooking performance from each fuel type without needing to compromise.

2. Why would I choose dual fuel over a single-fuel cooker?

Many cooks feel that gas gives them better control and responsiveness on the cooktop. You can see and instantly adjust the flame, which is particularly useful for stir-frying, charring and simmering delicate sauces. Electric ovens, on the other hand, produce a more consistent, dry heat that is better for baking cakes, bread and pastries. By combining both, you get a cooktop that responds the way a gas hob should and an oven that performs the way a good electric oven should.

3. How do I choose the best dual fuel freestanding cooker for my kitchen?

You will need both a gas connection and a dedicated electrical circuit for a dual fuel model. If your kitchen has both, the next step is deciding on the width and the features you want. Consider the number of burners, oven capacity, fan-forced function and whether you want a pyrolytic cleaning option. Check that the specifications match your kitchen's gas type (natural gas or LPG). For more guidance on choosing the right oven, check out our buying guide with expert tips to help you compare oven types.

4. Does a dual fuel cooker need both a gas line and electrical connection?

Yes. The gas cooktop connects to your household gas supply (natural gas or LPG via bottle), and the electric oven connects to a dedicated electrical circuit. Both connections need to be made by the appropriate licensed tradesperson - a gas fitter for the gas hose and a licensed electrician for the oven's power connection. Factor these installation costs into your budget when comparing dual fuel models to single-fuel options.

5. What sizes are dual fuel freestanding cookers available in?

Dual fuel cookers are most commonly available in 60cm and 90cm widths. The 60cm size is the standard choice for most households, while the 90cm model is favoured by those who cook for larger groups or want more burners and a bigger oven cavity. A 90cm dual fuel model typically has five or six gas burners and an oven with considerably more capacity than its 60cm equivalent.