Types of AGA Cookers: Finding the Right One for Your Home | 2025 Edition
If you are choosing between different types of AGA cookers, this guide covers power sources, heat control, sizes, top surfaces, installation, and running costs. The aim is simple. Match a model to the way you cook and the home you live in.
Power Sources
Electric
Electric AGAs are the most flexible option for modern homes. Most do not need a flue, which opens up placement in kitchens without a chimney. Ovens and hotplates can often be heated independently, so you only warm the zones you plan to use. Many models include timers, quick heat up modes, and holiday settings that cut energy use while you are away. If you want weekday speed, look for versions with an induction zone on top that can boil water quickly for pasta or tea.
Gas
Gas AGAs deliver steady, predictable heat with a familiar feel. They suit homes with mains gas and can also work with LPG where natural gas is not available. A suitable flue is required, either a conventional chimney or a balanced flue routed through an external wall. Annual servicing by a qualified engineer keeps the burner clean and efficient. Many owners like the balance of traditional heat storage with simple controls and robust day to day performance.
Oil
Oil powered AGAs are common in rural properties that do not have mains gas. They provide strong, even heat and steady cooking results. You will need a safe oil tank, regular filter changes, and yearly servicing by an oil technician to keep the burner and nozzle in good order. A correct flue is essential, and good ventilation helps the appliance run cleanly. If you already store oil for heating, this route can be convenient.
Solid Fuel
Solid fuel AGAs are part of the brand’s heritage. They burn coal or similar fuels and require hands on tending, ash removal, and a swept chimney. They offer authentic character but are not as convenient as electric, gas, or oil. Most new buyers choose a controllable electric model for ease of use while keeping the same style of radiant cooking.
Heat Style and Control
Traditional Heat Storage
Classic AGAs keep a heavy cast iron core at cooking temperature all the time. The stored heat is released gently and evenly. That means no preheating and very consistent results. The roasting oven runs hottest, the baking oven is moderate, the simmering oven is low and gentle, and a warming oven keeps food ready to serve. Many owners value the background warmth in the kitchen, especially in cooler months.
Independently Controlled Electric
Modern electric AGAs offer the same cast iron and radiant heat but with more control. You can heat a single oven or plate for a quick meal, then switch it off when you are done. Timers can bring an oven up to temperature before you start dinner. This style keeps the AGA feel while helping you manage running costs and daily routines.
Sizes
- Compact about 60 cm wide. Ideal for small kitchens and city flats. Expect core AGA features in a footprint similar to a standard cooker.
- Mid size roughly 90 to 110 cm. Often two to three ovens with two hotplates. A strong choice for family kitchens that want roast, bake, and simmer capability at the same time.
- Large 150 cm and above. Three to five ovens and generous top space. Suits open plan homes, keen bakers, and regular entertaining. Some ranges accept a companion unit to add capacity later.
Top Surfaces
Boiling and Simmering Plates
The classic AGA layout places a high heat plate on one side and a gentler plate on the other. Use the boiling plate for searing steaks, flash frying vegetables, and bringing pans to the boil. Use the simmering plate for sauces, porridge, custards, and toasting directly on the surface with a trivet. Keep the lids closed when not cooking to retain heat.
Induction Zones
Induction brings instant response and easy wipe clean surfaces. It heats the pan directly rather than the air around it. This is handy for quick breakfasts, late night tea, or tasks that need precise control such as melting chocolate. Induction pairs well with the hotplates, giving you speed during the week and classic radiant cooking when you have time.
Gas Burners
Some models or companion units include traditional gas burners. Visible flame control is useful for stir fries and wok cooking. If you like the look of enamel lids but prefer open flame for certain dishes, this mix can be a good fit.
Quick Comparison
| Type | Install | Control | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric | No flue in most cases | Independent zones, timers | Flexible daily cooking |
| Gas | Flue required | Steady heat | Homes with mains gas or LPG |
| Oil | Flue and oil store | Strong, even heat | Rural properties |
| Solid fuel | Chimney and fuel storage | Manual tending | Heritage kitchens |
Installation and Venting
- Electric usually needs only the correct electrical supply and typical room ventilation. No flue means more freedom on placement, which helps with kitchen layouts and islands.
- Gas and oil require the right flue type and clearances. Balanced flues often route through an external wall. A site survey confirms siting, wall construction, and terminal positions.
- All models are heavy and need a level, load bearing base or plinth. Plan space for safe delivery, and allow clearance to open lids and doors comfortably.
Running Costs and Everyday Use
Always on heat storage gives instant cooking and a warm kitchen. It suits households that cook often and enjoy the comfort it brings. Controllable electric trims costs by heating only what you need. Good habits help. Keep lids down when plates are idle. Match dishes to the right oven so you do not waste high heat on low tasks. Batch cook stews, bread, and tray bakes to make full use of stored heat, then reheat gently in the warming oven.
Which Type Suits You
- Small space compact electric with induction. Simple install and quick daily cooking.
- Family kitchen mid size with three ovens and two hotplates. Easy to juggle roasts, sides, and dessert.
- Entertaining large model or a companion unit for extra ovens and hob space when guests arrive.
- No mains gas electric or oil. Choose electric for fine control and timers. Choose oil if you already store oil and prefer a set and forget routine.
FAQ
Which AGA is most economical to run? Controllable electric models are usually the easiest to tailor. Heating only the zones you need and using timers cuts consumption without losing the AGA cooking style.
Do I need a flue? Electric models usually do not. Gas and oil do. A survey will confirm the exact flue type and terminal location for your home.
Can I mix induction with hotplates? Many electric AGAs offer both. Use induction for fast tasks and the plates for steady radiant heat.
How often should an AGA be serviced? Electric models need minimal routine checks. Gas and oil should be serviced once a year by qualified engineers to keep them safe and efficient.
Can I switch an AGA off in summer? Many owners run only selected zones or use induction during the hottest weeks. Independently controlled electric models make this easy.
Thank you for reading! If you want to find out more about AGA you can read all our related blogs here. If you're just getting started finding out about AGA we recommend starting with our Introduction to AGA blog.
