One of the first things new AGA owners notice is that the ovens don’t have temperature dials. Instead, each oven maintains a specific heat level based on its position in the cooker. Once you know which oven is which, cooking becomes far easier and more intuitive.
Understanding the Layout
Most AGAs are built around the same principle: constant heat stored in cast iron and distributed evenly through different ovens.
The number of ovens depends on the model. A two-oven AGA has a roasting oven and a simmering oven, while four- and five-oven models add extra options for baking and warming.
The Main Ovens
Roasting Oven – The Hottest Oven
Located at the top right on most models, the roasting oven runs at around 230°C. It’s perfect for roasts, bread and other high-heat dishes.
The heat comes mainly from the top and sides, giving food a crisp, even finish.
Baking Oven – Medium Heat
Usually below or beside the roasting oven, the baking oven maintains a steady temperature around 190°C. It’s ideal for cakes, pastries and general oven cooking. Many owners also use it to finish dishes started in the hotter oven.
Simmering Oven – Low, Gentle Heat
Typically at the lower left, the simmering oven stays around 140–160°C. It’s used for casseroles, slow-cooked meats, puddings and meringues.
Because of its even, radiant heat, it can cook tender dishes for hours without burning.
Warming Oven – Low Holding Heat
Found on some four- or five-oven AGAs, the warming oven maintains a gentle heat of 60–90°C. It’s ideal for keeping plates or food warm before serving.
Hotplates
Above the ovens are two main hotplates:
- Boiling Plate: The hotter plate, used for searing, frying and boiling.
- Simmering Plate: Slightly cooler, used for gentle heating, sauces and melting.
Each plate has an insulated lid to trap heat when not in use. Keeping these lids down whenever possible helps maintain oven temperatures and efficiency.
Cooking by Oven, Not Dial
An AGA is designed to be simple. Rather than adjusting temperatures, you use the correct oven or plate for the task. Food can also be moved between ovens during cooking to control browning or heat.
For example, a pie might start in the roasting oven to brown the pastry, then move to the baking oven to finish evenly.
Tips for Remembering
- Top right: Roasting – the hottest.
- Bottom right: Baking – medium heat.
- Bottom left: Simmering – gentle heat.
- Far left (on larger models): Warming – holding temperature.
Once you’ve learned which oven does what, cooking on an AGA becomes instinctive.
For servicing, refurbishment or conversion, contact Smart Range.
We provide expert AGA services across Surrey, Kent, Sussex and London.
