Going Electric: How Much Could You Save From Ditching Gas Stoves?
Cooking has been a part of the human experience since immemorial, with people forming connections over a good meal. And it all begins with the magic made in the kitchen. But how complete would your kitchen be without the essential stove?
Stoves can be categorized into two: gas stoves and electric stoves. These cooking must-haves are integral to your culinary journey and prowess. Both have their own benefits and leverages, making either more suitable for specific people. What makes these two stoves different, and why going electric might be better for you in the long run?
What are gas stoves?
Gas stoves are powered by fuel, creating their characteristic open flame when turned on. Both the stovetop and oven use fire to heat and cook food. The stovetop flame’s size usually shows the heat’s intensity, letting users adjust the temperature to their cooking needs. The flame repeatedly goes on and off for the oven to regulate the cooking temperature.
Home cooks and chefs commonly use gas stoves or ranges. About 40 million households in the USA use this type of stove, making up over 30 percent of the total homes in the country. The heat emanating from an open flame is a factor that some people consider when cooking since they find it easier to use.
What are electric stoves?
An electric stove characteristically features a flat and even cooking surface, usually made from a combination of ceramic glass. Unlike gas stoves that ignite an open flame to generate heat, electric stoves rely on metal coils to heat your choice of cookware. The same components are also responsible for generating heat inside the oven, creating a well-regulated temperature.
With its sleek finish, an electric stove can often be found in modern-style homes. Although they don’t create as much dramatic flare as an open flame, they still assist you with your culinary needs.
Comparing Gas Stoves and Electric Stoves
There has been an ongoing debate about which stove is better for cooking. Although both stoves have pros and cons, their unique characteristics make one better than the other according to a cook’s individual needs. Here’s a rundown of the differences between gas and electric stoves so you can compare and contrast them:
Costs
Gas stoves are notably more expensive than electric stoves. The unit alone can already be pricey, but installing a gas hookup can also increase the cost. Although the federal government will not ban gas ranges, some local governments currently ban gas line installations in new construction projects. This situation could make it challenging to change their current range to a gas stove in the future.
The heat of the stovetop
Gas ranges are excellent for immediate heat adjustment. This characteristic makes it easier for cooks to react fast when they see the meal they’re preparing burning or cooking too slowly. On the other hand, electric stoves create an even and immediate heat transfer. The metal coils allow retaining heat longer than an open flame.
The heat of the oven
Fast preheating is a feature that gas ranges have over electric stoves. This feature allows cooks to put their dishes in the oven quickly. However, electric stoves offer dry oven heat, making it ideal for browning dishes.
Ease of cleaning
Electric stoves are easier to clean because of their smooth surface. You won’t have to remove iron grates in case there’s spillage while cooking. You only have to get a rug and clean the stove.
Benefits of Using Electric Stoves
Although gas stoves are traditionally used and sometimes preferred by home cooks, shifting to a cleaner cooking appliance, like an electric stove, can benefit you in the long run. As discussed, electric stoves can be more effective than gas ranges in specific aspects. Other advantages of using this alternative include:
Cost efficiency
Gas ranges are expensive to buy and install. That isn’t the case with electric stoves. All you need is an outlet that keeps your unit running.
Energy efficiency
Gas ranges consume more energy than electric stoves do. While the latter does use energy, it produces heat using an electromagnetic field underneath its glass surface. Its ability to retain heat reduces your need for power, which could help reduce your utility bills.
Safety
Electric stoves eliminate any risks that come with open flames and gas ranges, such as methane leakage. There are also fewer chances of residents suffering from the effects of indoor pollution, which is the cause of 12.7 percent of cases of childhood asthma in the USA.
Serviceability
It’s relatively easy to find companies that can service your electric stoves should they need repair or maintenance. And if you need parts like Kenmore electric stove parts, they’re readily available in the market. You won’t have to wait too long to get your electric stove back in action.
Environmentally friendly
Since these stoves run on electricity, they are much more suitable for individuals who want to make their lifestyle greener and more sustainable. With your home being free of methane emissions and gas range pollution, you can contribute to creating a more eco-friendly system.
Make Things More Electric at Home
Going electric can be the shift you need for a more cost-efficient and greener lifestyle. With these small but meaningful integrations, you can make your home more sustainable and safer for you and your family. Make that shift; you’ll thank yourself later.