Published Jul 10, 2025 3 min read

Oven symbols can be confusing, especially if you are not sure what each one means. These small icons show different cooking functions like baking, grilling, or defrosting. Knowing what they mean helps you cook better and save time. In this simple oven symbols guide, you will learn how to use each mode the right way. 

Thinking of buying a new oven? With the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan, you can choose your preferred model from 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India. Whether you are shopping for a compact oven or one with advanced features, simply use the Easy EMI Loan of up to Rs. 5 lakh to make your purchase. You can convert the total cost into Easy EMIs that fit your monthly budget comfortably. Select models even come with zero down payment, so you can bring your oven home without paying anything upfront. 

Check your loan eligibility online in minutes to plan your purchase smartly, even before visiting the store.

Microwave oven symbols – what do they mean

Modern microwave ovens come with a range of features, often shown through small icons or symbols on the control panel. These microwave oven symbols are designed to make cooking easier, helping you choose the right setting for reheating, defrosting, grilling, or baking. However, many users find these icons confusing. This simple guide will help you understand what each symbol means, so you can use your microwave more confidently and effectively. Whether it is the fan symbol for convection or the zigzag lines for grill mode, knowing these symbols can improve your cooking experience.

You can also learn more about helpful microwave oven features and cooking modes.

What are the symbols for cooking

Microwave ovens use different symbols for cooking to show specific modes and features. These small icons help you choose the right setting depending on the dish you are preparing. Whether you want to reheat last night’s dinner, bake a cake, or grill vegetables, knowing what each symbol means can make your cooking process much easier and more accurate.

Here is a simple table that explains the most common microwave cooking symbols and their uses:

SymbolMeaningBest used for
Fan with heat wavesConvection modeBaking, roasting, and even cooking
Zigzag lines (top)Grill modeGrilling sandwiches or browning cheese
Snowflake or dropDefrost modeThawing frozen meat or vegetables
Steam symbolSteam cookingGentle, healthy cooking with moisture
ThermometerAuto temperature or preset modeCooking with pre-programmed settings
Dish with arrowsReheat modeWarming up pre-cooked meals
Single wave lineLow microwave powerMelting chocolate, softening butter

 

These symbols might look different across brands, but their meanings are usually similar. Always refer to your oven’s manual for clarity.

What are the different oven settings

Modern ovens come with a variety of settings, each designed to help you cook specific types of food more efficiently. Understanding these oven settings can make everyday cooking easier, whether you are baking bread, roasting vegetables, or grilling meat. Each mode uses a different combination of heat sources, fans, and timers to achieve the best results.

Here are some common oven settings and how they work:

  • Convection mode: Uses a fan to circulate hot air evenly, ideal for baking and roasting.
  • Grill mode: Direct heat from the top, perfect for toasting or browning.
  • Defrost mode: Circulates air without heat to gently thaw frozen food.
  • Microwave mode: Uses microwaves for fast cooking or reheating.
  • Combination mode: Mixes microwave and convection functions for faster baking or roasting.
  • Preheat setting: Heats the oven to the desired temperature before cooking begins.

Using the right setting helps save energy, time, and ensures evenly cooked meals every time.

What do different oven symbols mean

Oven symbols are small but important icons that show which cooking mode your oven is using. Each symbol has a specific purpose—some use heat from the top, others use fans to spread the heat evenly. Understanding what these symbols mean can help you cook more efficiently and avoid overcooked or undercooked food.

Here are a few common oven symbols and what they mean:

  • Convection symbol: Shows a fan, used for even baking or roasting.
  • Grill symbol: Usually a zigzag line, ideal for grilling or browning.
  • Defrost symbol: Often a snowflake or droplet, for thawing frozen food.
  • Microwave symbol: Wavy lines indicate microwave heating.
  • Combination mode: A mix of fan and waves, for faster, even cooking.
  • Reheat symbol: Used to warm up cooked food gently.

By knowing these symbols, you can make better use of your oven’s features and improve your cooking results.

Tips for using oven settings

Using the right oven setting can make a big difference in how your food turns out. Whether you are baking a cake or grilling vegetables, understanding the correct function ensures better results and saves time. Here are some simple tips to help you use your oven settings more effectively:

  • Preheat your oven before cooking to ensure even temperature.
  • Use convection mode for even baking and roasting across multiple trays.
  • Choose grill mode when you want a crisp, brown top layer.
  • Switch to defrost mode for gentle thawing without partially cooking the food.
  • Use low heat settings for melting or softening ingredients like chocolate or butter.
  • Always refer to the symbol guide on your oven panel to select the right mode.
  • Clean your oven regularly to prevent odours and uneven heating.

These small adjustments can help improve taste, texture, and energy efficiency.

Conclusion – make the most of your oven by understanding its symbols

Knowing what your oven symbols mean can truly change the way you cook. Instead of guessing or relying on trial and error, understanding these icons allows you to pick the right function for each dish. Whether you are baking cookies, roasting vegetables, defrosting meat, or grilling sandwiches, selecting the correct setting ensures better taste, texture, and even energy savings.

From convection mode that spreads heat evenly, to grill functions that help you get that perfect golden finish—each mode is designed to make cooking easier and more efficient. This knowledge also helps extend the life of your oven, reduces food wastage, and gives you greater control in the kitchen.

If you are planning to upgrade or replace your existing appliance, a convection microwave oven is a smart and space-saving choice. It combines the power of traditional heating with modern technology, giving you versatility in a single unit. 

You can now explore the latest offers on electronics and home appliances, including microwave ovens, and enjoy attractive prices and seasonal deals across categories.

Get microwave ovens on Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv

Bringing home a feature-packed microwave oven is now easy and budget-friendly with Bajaj Finserv’s flexible financing options. Follow these simple steps to shop smartly and convert your purchase into Easy EMIs:

  • Explore models on Bajaj Mall: Browse through a wide selection of solo, grill, and convection microwave ovens on Bajaj Mall. Compare features like capacity, power levels, auto-cook menus, and design to find the right fit for your kitchen.
  • Visit a partner store: Once you have shortlisted your preferred model, visit any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 Indian cities. Check out the product in person and speak to in-store experts for added guidance.
  • Choose the Easy EMI Loan option: At checkout, opt for the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan. Get financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh and convert the cost into monthly instalments. Select microwave ovens may also be available with zero down payment.
  • Check your loan eligibility online: Make the process smoother by checking your pre-approved loan limit online. Simply enter your mobile number and OTP to know how much you can borrow—before stepping into the store.
  • Use the EMI Network Card for purchases up to Rs. 3 lakh: If you already have the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, you can easily split payments of up to Rs. 3 lakh into manageable EMIs—without any paperwork or delays.

Frequently asked questions

How to buy microwave ovens on EMIs?

Yes, you can purchase a microwave oven with Bajaj Finserv's Easy EMI options.

If you are an existing user of the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card:
• Explore a wide range of microwave ovens on Bajaj Mall.
• Select your preferred model and visit a nearby Bajaj Finserv partner store to check it in person.
• Use your EMI Network Card to convert your purchase into Easy EMIs with affordable monthly payments.
• Bring home your new microwave oven without delay.

If you do not have the card, begin by checking your EMI Network Card eligibility and take the first step towards owning your favourite appliances on Easy EMIs.

What do common oven symbols on display mean?

Common oven symbols indicate functions like convection, grill, defrost, or reheat. Each symbol helps you select the right setting for cooking. Knowing what these icons mean ensures better results and energy efficiency while using your microwave or built-in oven.

Are oven symbols the same for all brands?

No, oven symbols may vary slightly across brands. While most symbols follow a standard logic—like fans for convection or lines for grill—it is best to refer to the product manual. Understanding each icon helps you use the appliance correctly and avoid confusion.

How to identify convection and grill oven symbols?

The convection oven symbol usually shows a fan, while the grill symbol appears as wavy or zigzag lines. These oven symbols help identify the cooking mode, making it easier to choose the correct setting for baking, roasting, or grilling.

Why should you understand oven symbols before cooking?

Understanding oven symbols helps you cook food correctly and safely. It ensures better control over temperature and timing, reduces energy waste, and improves cooking results. Knowing each symbol also helps prevent misuse of the microwave or oven settings.

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