How to take care of the oven

Taking care of your oven not only helps keep it clean, but also prolongs its lifespan and improves its efficiency. Here are some tips for good maintenance:

1. Regular cleaning

Consistent cleaning is key to keeping your oven running well and preventing grease or food residue from building up that can affect its performance. Depending on the type of oven you have, do a superficial cleaning after each use or a deeper cleaning every so often.

Cleaning after use: If your oven has spills or splatters, clean it while it's still warm (but not hot). Use a damp cloth or sponge with mild detergent.

Deep cleaning: Every 1-3 months, do a deep cleaning using methods like baking soda or oven-specific products.

2. Avoid spills during cooking

Use trays to prevent food from spilling directly onto the oven surfaces. If something spills, it's best to clean it quickly to prevent it from burning and sticking to the walls.

3. Use the right cookware

Make sure you use oven-safe cookware and containers. The wrong cookware, such as plastic or wood, can damage the interior walls. Always choose glass, metal or ceramic cookware that is heat-resistant.

4. Don't overheat the oven

Avoid heating the oven more than necessary, as excessive heat can damage internal components and wear down door seals. Check the temperature recommendations for the food you are cooking.

5. Check the door seals

The oven door seals are essential to keeping heat in. Check periodically for wear or looseness. If you notice any cracks or damage, replace them to prevent the oven from losing heat.

6. Unplug the oven when not in use

If your oven is electric, it is good practice to unplug it when not in use, especially if you are not using it for long periods. This not only saves energy, but also protects against potential electrical overloads or problems.

7. Proper ventilation

Always make sure your oven is well ventilated. If possible, leave space between the oven walls and the walls of the kitchen to prevent overheating and ensure proper air circulation.

8. Avoid excessive use of oven sprays

Some oven sprays can leave sticky residue that, over time, can build up and create stains that are difficult to clean. If you use these products, be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

9. Get professional maintenance from time to time

If your oven is very large or has a complicated self-cleaning system, it is advisable to have it checked by a professional from time to time. This will ensure that everything is working properly and prevent unexpected failures.

10. Keep heating elements clean

If you have an oven with visible heating elements, be sure to keep them clean and free of grease. Dirty heating elements can affect heat distribution, resulting in uneven cooking of food.

11. Take care of the thermostat

If you notice that your oven's temperature is not accurate, this could be an indication that the thermostat is failing. Preventive maintenance can save you problems in the long run.

12. Use the self-cleaning mode (if it has one)

If your oven has a self-cleaning cycle, use it according to the manufacturer's instructions. This process burns off grease and residue at very high temperatures, which can be very effective, but make sure not to do it too often, as the intense heat can wear down the oven's components.

Additional tips:

• Close the door properly: Make sure the door closes properly, as air leaks can affect the oven's energy efficiency.

• Don't use the oven for storage: Avoid storing utensils or products inside the oven, as this can damage them or prevent proper air circulation.

• Monitor temperatures: Don't leave the oven on longer than necessary, and always adjust the temperature to the recommendations of your recipes.

By following these tips, your oven will be in better condition for longer, allowing you to enjoy a more efficient kitchen with fewer problems.