What temperature should the oven thermostat be set to when inspecting ovens?

Setting the oven thermostat to 300°F when inspecting ovens is appropriate because this temperature is a standard threshold used to evaluate the performance and accuracy of the oven's heating capabilities. It allows for a reliable test of how well the oven can maintain a consistent temperature over time. This is particularly important in inspections because it provides insight into the oven's functionality and ability to evenly cook food where various recipes often assume an oven temperature around this range.

Using 300°F as a benchmark also aligns with common baking and cooking practices, so it helps to simulate typical conditions in which an oven is used. This makes it easier to determine not just if the oven can reach the temperature but also if it can hold it consistently, which is a crucial factor for effective cooking.