If you're in the market for new kitchen appliances, then space, budget and your cooking habits are probably already top of mind. But another key factor is good value, so do consider your long-term plans before buying.

"Buying a cooking appliance involves really big decisions," says David Gilmore, General Manager of Emilia Glem. "It's an installation that becomes part of your house and the one appliance that can add value to your home."

Whether you're simply upgrading appliances or overhauling the kitchen, you'll want an oven and cooktop that promise years of service. If you plan to sell your home anytime soon, you might invest in stylish high-end units that will appeal to buyers. And an energy-efficient model is always a good idea.

Hot options
The first decision when buying a new oven is, gas or electric? Australians have traditionally preferred electric, but there are pros and cons to both fuels.

"Gas is a moist heat, so it's great for cooking things like roasts," says Gilmore. "Electricity is considered better for cooking things like pastry."

Some electric ovens now offer such a broad range of options, they're referred to as multifunction appliances. These features can include fan-forced operation, pre-programmed cooking modes and the option to use top/bottom/rear heating elements separately.

The next big decision is whether to go for an all-in-one freestanding range or to install a built-in oven and a separate cooktop. "There's a certain warmth and style to a cooking range," says Gilmore, "and it's also easier to find a bigger oven in a freestanding unit." Built-in ovens, on the other hand, offer a slicker, more modern look and greater flexibility in putting together different components.

Sizing up the options
What size of oven to buy is also an important consideration. Standard single ovens are 60cm, with compacts from 45cm and bigger models up to 90cm.

"Some of the new 60cm models have become bigger inside, offering 66-litre capacity as opposed to 56-litre," says Diane Pollitt, Sales Consultant at appliance retailer Designer Homeware. "That's good if you want to fit in a big roast and a tray of vegies."

If space in the kitchen is tight, look for compact models. "A lot of people go for a 45cm combination oven and microwave," says Pollitt. "These are good as a second oven, in an apartment, or for people who don't cook a lot."

In the showroom, take time to check out the interior arrangement of ovens and consider your needs. Do you want to be able to bake two or three dishes at once, for example? For cooktops, consider the logistics of preparing meals. How many pots and pans do you usually juggle? Does the burner configuration suit you? Burners laid in a diagonal pattern may offer more space than those in the traditional square.

Finally, the proof is in the pudding bowl... or some other piece of essential cookware. "If you have a favourite pan or wok or baking dish," Gilmore advises, "take it in and see how it fits."