Oven Temperature Converter
Convert oven temperatures between Celsius, Fahrenheit, and Gas Mark. Includes a full temperature chart and fan oven (convection) adjustment guide.
Oven Temperature Conversion Guide
Recipes from different countries use different temperature scales. American recipes typically specify Fahrenheit, British and Australian recipes often use Gas Mark as well as Celsius, and most European recipes use Celsius exclusively. Understanding how to convert between these is essential when cooking from international recipes.
The fan oven adjustment
Fan ovens (convection ovens) circulate hot air around the food, cooking it more evenly and efficiently. As a result, fan ovens run approximately 20°C (around 35–40°F) hotter than conventional ovens at the same setting. When converting a recipe designed for a conventional oven to a fan oven, reduce the temperature by 20°C or follow the manufacturer's recommendation.
Oven temperatures can vary significantly from the dial setting — often by 25°C or more. If you bake regularly, an oven thermometer is a worthwhile investment for under $15. Place it inside during preheating to verify your oven's actual temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert Gas Mark to Celsius?
The standard conversion is: °C = (Gas Mark × 25) + 135. So Gas Mark 4 = (4×25)+135 = 235°C. However, the industry standard table is slightly different at the extremes, so refer to the chart above for the most accurate values for each gas mark.
What temperature is a moderate oven?
A moderate oven is typically 180°C (350°F / Gas Mark 4). This is the most common temperature for cakes, cookies, and most baked goods. "Slow" or "low" ovens are around 140–160°C (275–325°F), and "hot" ovens are 200–230°C (400–450°F).
Should I use a fan oven for baking cakes?
Fan ovens are excellent for baking most things, but delicate cakes can sometimes develop uneven tops due to the airflow. For light sponge cakes, some bakers prefer conventional mode. For biscuits, bread, pastry, and roasting, fan mode produces superior results. Always reduce the temperature by 20°C when switching from conventional to fan.