Initial oven use: 'burn in' to remove chemicals

Posted on 17/07/2024

Initial Oven Use: 'Burn In' to Remove Chemicals

Why It's Important to Perform a 'Burn In'

When you purchase a new oven, it's crucial to perform a 'burn in' process before you start cooking food in it. The 'burn in' helps in removing manufacturing residues, oils, and chemicals that can emit unpleasant odors and potentially harmful substances when heated. This practice ensures that your new oven operates properly and is safe for food preparation.

What is a 'Burn In'?

A 'burn in' is a process of running your empty oven at a high temperature for a specific duration to eliminate any residual materials left from the manufacturing process. This practice is similar to seasoning cast iron cookware before initial use. The high heat burns off chemical residues, new oven smells, and any protective coatings applied during manufacturing.

How to Perform a 'Burn In'

1. Ensure the oven is empty: Remove any packaging, plastic ties, and racks if instructed by the manufacturer.


2. Ventilation: Open windows and turn on exhaust fans to provide proper ventilation, as the process may produce some smoke and strong odors.


3. Set the temperature: Preheat the oven to a temperature between 400?F and 550?F, as recommended by your oven's user manual.


4. Run the oven: Allow the oven to run at the high temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.


5. Cool down: After the 'burn in' is complete, turn off the oven and let it cool down with the oven door open.

Common Signs That the 'Burn In' is Working

During the 'burn in' process, it's normal to observe certain signs indicating that the procedure is working:

• Smoke: Don't panic if you see some smoke; it's just the residues burning off.


• Odor: A strong chemical or burnt smell is also common and should dissipate after the process.


• Discoloration: Some slight discoloration inside the oven can occur but is usually temporary.

Pros and Cons of Performing a 'Burn In'

Pros:

• Health Safety: Removing chemical residues ensures you're not ingesting harmful substances.


• Better performance: Your oven benefits from optimal performance without any unwanted odors or contaminants.


• Durability: Properly preparing your oven can enhance its longevity.

Cons:

• Time-consuming: The process can take up to an hour or more.


• Odors and smoke: The initial 'burn in' can produce irritating smells and smoke, necessitating good ventilation.

Tips for a Successful 'Burn In'

• Follow the manual: Always refer to your oven's user manual for specific 'burn in' instructions.


• Use a timer: Set a timer to avoid running the oven longer than necessary.


• Stay safe: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby just in case, and stay home during the process to monitor it.

Conclusion

Performing a 'burn in' is a crucial step when you first use a new oven. It helps in eliminating residual manufacturing chemicals and ensuring that your appliance is safe and ready for food preparation. Though it may produce some initial discomfort with smoke and odors, these are temporary and well worth the peace of mind and enhanced safety. Always follow your manufacturer's guidelines for best results.

Takeaways

• Always conduct a 'burn in' before using your oven for cooking.


• Ensure proper ventilation during the process.


• Follow manufacturer instructions closely.