If you’re like many RVers, you’ve probably learned the hard way that pizza just isn’t the same in a microwave. I don’t know about you, but no RV Trip is complete without an oven-baked pizza. But for that crispy crust and melted gooey goodness on top, you are going to need a proper oven. Which, can be a conundrum, if the RV oven was last thing you think when buying a new model. So, do yourself a favor: Think about your RV on the front-end — before you buy your next RV.
We all know that in space is more precious than gold in an RV. Creature comforts get weighed in the balance. Even so, let me share a few tips to help guide you find that right balance — one that will keep bellies full and hearts warm. (Because not all RV ovens are created equal!)
So, I think we’re adequately preheated now. Here’s what to look for in an RV oven.
Start with RV Oven Size
Size is going to be a huge factor in the type of oven you choose. If you go too big, you could be sacrificing precious countertop space. (Or maybe that farmhouse style sink you always dreamed of.) Decide which is going to bring you more joy: a bigger sink to clean the dishes, or an oven to bake brownies in? A typical RV oven and combination range is about 21-inches wide. That varies of course, depending on the space in — and specific type of — RV). Another factor is the attention given to amenities by manufacturers.
Not everyone wants to do a lot of baking inside. (Although almost everyone wants to cook a pizza at some point!) So, for some folks, a propane cooktop or induction top will do just fine. (Maybe they’re ordering their pizza.) But for the rest of us, let’s explore some size options.
- 21-inch range. A 21-inch RV range will generally yield 1.8 cubic feet of baking space. That is quite a squeeze compared to a residential oven. But a roast chicken will fit just fine — or a loaf of bread, pizza, and cookies. (Not all at once though.)
- Convection oven microwave. If you can’t find an RV with the space for an oven, consider a convection oven microwave. The difference between a microwave and a convection oven microwave are the heating elements. Traditional microwaves use electromagnetic waves to cook their food. Convection microwaves have an additional heating element and fan to circulate heat throughout the cavity. If you activate the convection setting on your microwave, your food will cook similar to a convection oven. The convection feature will basically transform your microwave into a little convection oven. (So, maybe you can have your cake and eat it too! Albeit, a slightly smaller cake.)
Hot Model: For an oven with a whopping residential size, and a four burner range, check out the Palomino Puma 403 LFT.
Look for Autoignition
This newer feature on ranges and ovens is very enticing. If you have ever spent an extended period of time in an RV, you are probably familiar with the time wasted looking for the stove igniter. (Or maybe that’s just us!) Autoignition for an RV oven is a luxury that will save you time — and countless stove igniters.
Personally, when I finally do find the ignition tool, it’s usually low on fuel. I end up frantically trying to ignite a spark before the propane floods the element. The anticipation gets me every time, like a twisted game of jack in the box. I never know if my eyebrows are going to get singed when the waiting is done. The autoignition switch is one of those little luxuries that can change your daily experience in an RV. Don’t discount it.
Hot Model: Jayco’s 2024 Greyhawk Class C line come equipped with a Furrion range and autoignition switches.
Go for a Glass Oven Door
If you are looking at a range new enough to have the autoignition feature, then it will likely come with this feature as well: a glass oven door. In the past, RV oven doors were solid metal, and you needed to open them to see what was happening inside.
Smaller ovens come with a difficult task of temperature regulation. Opening the oven door releases precious heat, making heat regulation even more difficult than it already is. This can create hot spots in your cooking, as the propane flame has to reignite to regulate the heat. The clear glass with oven lighting gives you the opportunity to check on your cooking without having to open the oven door.
Check for a Range Hood
I would have thought this was obvious. Believe it or not, a range hood above a propane stove isn’t always required in the RV industry. Codes, corner cutting, and price cuts have a way of stopping short of the obvious sometimes.
If you have a propane oven or stove, you should have a ventilation hood no more than four feet above your cooktop. New research is pointing to the long term health effects of cooking indoors on a gas or propane stove. If you are going to do it, better to have proper ventilation at all times.
Hot Models: Some models, like Jayco’s Eagle half-ton fifth wheels, have ventilation available underneath the microwave. This is a good solution for safe cooking, while utilizing the space for an additional appliance. Other models, like Jayco’s 2025 Jay Feather, have a separate Furrion ventilation hood installed above the range. Both options offer proper ventilation, with modern and efficient RV ovens.
Inspect — or Add — Safety Features
Propane ovens come with a few extra recommended safety precautions.
- LED nobs for the burners and the oven will let you know right away if your flame is lit. This feature comes with most auto ignition switches.
- Flame Failure Devices are worth considering if there isn’t already one installed. It will stop the flow of gas to the burner if your flame has gone out for whatever reason.
- Get a combination smoke alarm that detects propane leaks and other potentially fatal leaks.
Shopping
Searching for anything in the RV industry can be overwhelming. But don’t stress. With today’s technology and your resourcefulness, you can find the perfect combination for your kitchen needs. Just open your laptop, pop in a pizza, and start your research. Your family will thank you. (And, if they don’t say it out loud, know that it’s in their hearts … somewhere.) Your work in the kitchen is what brings harmony to the whole experience.
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