AGA range cookers work differently from standard ovens. They don’t rely on fans or direct heat from an element. Instead, they store energy in cast iron and release it gradually through radiant heat.
This creates a unique and consistent cooking environment that many owners wouldn’t swap for anything else.
A Heat Storage System
At the heart of every AGA is a heavy cast-iron core surrounded by high-quality insulation. Once heated, the cast iron retains energy and distributes it evenly throughout the ovens and hotplates.
The cooker stays warm at all times, maintaining steady temperatures without constant adjustment.
This is what makes an AGA different from a conventional oven that cycles on and off as it heats.
Radiant Heat Cooking
Instead of cooking through hot air, an AGA cooks using radiant heat. The cast iron absorbs energy and radiates it gently into the food, cooking it from all sides.
This type of heat keeps food moist and prevents it from drying out, giving roasts a crisp outside and soft interior.
It’s also what makes baking in an AGA so even and reliable.
Ovens with Distinct Temperatures
Most AGAs have multiple ovens, each set to a different temperature zone:
- Roasting oven: around 230°C
- Baking oven: around 190°C
- Simmering oven: around 140–160°C
- Warming oven: around 60–90°C
These temperatures are maintained by the heat balance within the cooker rather than a thermostat cycling on and off.
Once the AGA is fully up to temperature, it holds heat remarkably steadily.
Hotplates and Their Function
On top of the cooker are two main hotplates — the boiling plate and the simmering plate. The boiling plate provides fast, intense heat for searing and boiling, while the simmering plate delivers gentler warmth for sauces or slow frying.
The plates are insulated with heavy lids that help retain heat when closed.
Keeping the lids down whenever possible helps reduce energy use and maintain oven temperature.
Fuel Types
Over the years, AGAs have been produced in a variety of fuel types:
- Solid fuel (early models)
- Oil
- Gas
- Electric (modern and converted versions)
Regardless of fuel, the principle remains the same: energy is stored in cast iron and released gradually through radiant heat. Electric AGAs now use advanced control systems, allowing individual zones to be turned on and off when needed for greater efficiency.
Why It Feels Different
Because of its radiant heat, an AGA creates a naturally warm environment in the kitchen.
The exterior panels stay warm but never dangerously hot, and the ovens retain moisture, producing distinctive cooking results that differ from fan-assisted ovens.
Caring for Your AGA
For the system to work efficiently, insulation and calibration are important.
If your AGA is running too hot or struggling to reach temperature, it could be a sign that the insulation or burner needs attention.
Regular servicing helps preserve its balance and keeps cooking performance consistent.
For servicing, re-enamelling or electric conversion, contact Smart Range. We work across Surrey, Kent, Sussex and London.
