These simple cookers also encompass a collector, storage and controls. The collector is a glass or heat-resistant plastic cover that lets sunlight inside. Storage occurs because insulation prevents heat from escaping. Storage is also provided by the food itself, which absorbs heat. Controls for a solar oven are the reflectors.
Reflectors help control the temperature by concentrating the sun's rays onto the cooking area.
Temperatures can also be adjusted by repositioning a solar oven in relation to the sun. If lower temperatures are needed, the oven can merely be pointed a bit away from the sun's direct rays. In Arizona's abundant sunshine, solar ovens can reduce a home's cooling needs. Each time you use your conventional oven during the summer months, you are also having to use additional electricity to cool and dehumidify an air conditioned home. Solar ovens not only use no electricity or natural gas, but they don't heat-up the house.