Range cookers are often seen as energy-consuming, unsustainable, and outdated. Yet in the heart of every home - the kitchen - design, function, and sustainability must come together seamlessly, with the cooker at its core.
To challenge the myths surrounding heat storage cookers, PuRe speaks with Guy Goring, Managing Director of Everhot, the Cotswolds-based pioneer of electric heat storage range cookers, to explore the common misconceptions, past, present, and future of this hot kitchen essential.
© Everhot
What is the history behind heat storage cookers?
"Traditional heat storage cookers were designed in an era when energy was cheaper and more plentiful. They offered little insulation and relied on a single heat source to power the entire cooker.
The innovation behind the Everhot design was to give each cooking zone its own heat source, providing superior temperature control and independence. Enhanced insulation not only improved efficiency but also simplified installation – there's no longer any need for a fireproof hearth or ventilation gaps.
Everhot cookers simply plug into a standard 13-amp socket, eliminating the need for hardwiring or a 32-amp supply. Their low energy demand integrates perfectly with renewable energy sources. While competitors have replicated aspects of our solar compatibility messaging, the way Everhot cookers generate and manage heat means they can run effectively on a typical 4kW solar array – consuming, on average, just 0.6kWh."
Are they suitable for all year-round use?
"Unlike traditional heat storage cookers, an Everhot can be adapted for year-round use. While some owners of older AGAs or Rayburns turn them off entirely in summer and rely on a separate cooker, an Everhot eliminates that need – it can be tailored to suit any season.
Earlier this year, we launched our Wi-Fi–enabled control system that adds flexibility to everyday use, but its benefits are particularly noticeable as the seasons change. Our customers tend to set their cookers to full power during the cooler months to enjoy the warmth in the kitchen, the type of cooking tends to reflect the season too with more warming slow cooked hearty meals on the menu. As the weather warms up you don't need to compromise on great cooking, the versatility of our cookers with our Eco settings, induction hobs and Wi-Fi control mean you can enjoy your cooker year round, even in the summer."
Some associate range cookers with continuous energy use, what is your response to this?
"Owning a range cooker doesn't have to mean high running costs. While traditional heat storage cookers have a reputation for being expensive to run, Everhot models use less than half the energy of an AGA. In fact, we successfully challenged AGA's claim to have the lowest running costs with the Advertising Standards Authority.
With Everhot, you can enjoy the aesthetic and performance of a classic range cooker – sustainably and affordably. Our cookers were designed to harness renewable energy and minimise energy consumption, using a gentle, consistent trickle of electricity throughout the day.
We are continually improving the efficiency of our cookers – enhancing insulation and refining control systems to reduce energy use, while maintaining the comforting warmth and exceptional cooking performance Everhot is known for."
© Everhot
Is British heritage and local manufacturing important today?
"We've always championed sustainable, local manufacturing. Every Everhot cooker, stove, heater and grill is hand-built by individual technicians – there's no assembly line. Processes such as linishing and enamelling are still carried out by hand.
UK manufacturing is vital to us, and most components are produced in-house. This allows us to implement design improvements swiftly and ensure every product meets our exacting quality standards. Many of our craftspeople have been with us for decades – some even working alongside family members. Our longest-serving team member joined in the mid-1990s and is still making a meaningful contribution today."
What is the future of heat storage range cookers?
"A heat storage range cooker is not a relic of the past, but a sophisticated, efficient centrepiece for today's well-insulated, modern homes. It's a long-term investment designed to last a lifetime.
As lifestyles evolve and the focus on energy efficiency intensifies, flexible, integrated appliances will become increasingly important. Everhot's ability to evolve with modern living patterns ensures it remains a relevant and desirable choice.
While modern appliances like air fryers have their place, nothing matches the quality of food – or the sense of home – created by a heat storage range cooker. It's more than just a cooker; it's the heart of the home."
© Everhot
More information:
Everhot
[email protected]
www.everhot.co.uk
+44 (0) 145 389 0018
United Kingdom
