A:Answer Hi tcpartridge -Thanks for choosing GE! The oven generally preheats in approximately 15-20 minutes. The oven has an audible preheat signal and will signal when the oven has reached a temperature hot enough to add food, rather than when the set temperature is reached. Typically the range will signal after about 7-12 minutes, depending of the temperature you set. We test with prepackaged foods, frozen pizzas, baked goods, etc. We put the items in at the beep, and get good results. This can help save time in the kitchen, since you are not waiting longer for the preheat than necessary, in most cases. Recipes can differ, as can a food's preheat requirements. Most foods we tested don't require additional oven heating, though there are always exceptions. If you're finding a recipe isn't cooking properly, then you may want to turn on the oven a little bit before you start your food preparation to give it a little more time. You can also remove unused racks when using the oven for faster preheat, improved efficiency, and optimal performance. We are excited to hear of your interest in our smudge-proof Slate finish. Explore our Slate Appliances at: http://www.geappliances.com/ge/slate-appliances.htm - Thanks for checking with us. Enjoy! SUEatGEA
