Electric vs Gas Cooking: Which Stove is Best?

The kitchen is often referred to as “the heart of the home”. It’s a space we all frequent, whether the goal is finding a quick snack, or whipping up a delicious dinner. Often a focal point of many open plan living spaces, you also want to wisely invest in your kitchen’s look and usability.

Meanwhile, when it comes to selling a home, the kitchen is one of the biggest drawcards. It’s a significant factor in the resale value of the property. One underrated feature is the stove, or cooktop. This is an appliance we all rely on daily and it has to be functional.

Whether you’re building a new home or renovating the kitchen, there’s one question to ask yourself; is it better cooking with a gas stove, or electric oven? Are there benefits from a gas cooktop that an electric induction cooktop might not deliver?

Both have their advantages and disadvantages. They play into personal preferences, too. To help you make an informed decision, let’s weigh up the pros and cons of electric and gas cooking.

The electric stove and oven combination unit is typically a cheaper option upfront than gas counterparts (which also feature an electric oven). And if there’s no gas line currently running to your home, it’s a particularly convenient option.

Electric stove tops are very easy to clean. A basic wipe down for cooktops with coil heat elements is all you need. Meanwhile, smooth ceramic surface cooktops and induction cooktops are even easier!

Electric ovens also evenly distribute heat and and can reach high temperatures quickly. This allows for reduced pre-heating requirements.

Many top-line electric cooktops also have easy-to-use controls and functions. You’re not limited to twisting a knob between high and low. Instead, you can enjoy controlled and focused cooking temperatures.

Additionally, modern electric induction stoves deliver extra energy efficiency and cooking control. Electromagnetic energy delivers fast and precise heat for consistent cooking. Your cookware just has to have a magnetic base for energy transfer, but most cast iron, steel and many stainless steel pans work.

Electric induction cooktops are also safer as there is no exposed heating element. Among all the gas and electric options, it’s the best for carefree cooking. Recent reports also indicate that electric stoves are good for your health as there are no gas fumes within the home, reducing the impact on respiratory issues.

Traditionally, cost has been one of the biggest disadvantages on an electric stovetop. But this does depend on your local electricity and gas costs. But it is likely that you will pay more when cooking with electricity over gas, unless you can also call on renewable energy at home.

The main disadvantage of electric cooking is with temperature control. Although electric ovens can reach their set temperature relatively quickly, they don’t always respond to quick changes in temperature.

This can affect your cooking as something may not reduce to a controlled simmer. Recipes insisting on specific temperatures often benefit from gas cooktops.

The lingering heat from an electric cooktop often poses a safety hazard, too. While induction cooktops are cool to the touch, other ceramic elements retain heat for up to 30 minutes after you turn the stove off.

Meanwhile, those ultra-safe induction cooktops do come with a hefty price tag. The modern kitchen appliance is still at a premium as new technology. You will have to factor in additional upfront costs.

As mentioned previously, historic gas prices have often been far lower than electricity costs in Australia. It’s why a gas stove is typically more cost effective than an electric model. Therefore, it’s friendlier on the household budget.

Less energy usage means those dreaded quarterly bills are reduced. However, it will depend on your local gas prices and charges, so if you’re looking to convert, be sure to assess the ongoing costs.

Other benefits of gas stovetops include increased temperature control. You have instant control of the heat and can easily switch between high and low, unlike many electric stoves. Turn the flame up and there’s instant heat. Turn the stove off and the heat dissipates immediately.

This kind of control makes gas cooking the preferred option for many chefs and foodies. In fact, it’s perfect for anyone who values the ability to regulate temperature easily and immediately. You can easily grill, sear or simmer with no fuss.

Unlike electric ovens, gas stoves can also be used for cooking during a blackout – provided you have a battery ignition. It’s versatile cooking with few drawbacks.

Gas stoves aren’t completely without their disadvantages. They’re not always as easy to clean as electric stoves, especially with the need to remove the grates and grill plates. Gas cooking can often create a slightly greasy surface that needs regular cleaning.

There is also the possibility of not maximising heat and gas consumption if the pots and pans you’re using are too small for the burner. Some gas stovetops struggle to maintain consistent boiling temperatures if your pots are not the right size. Thankfully that’s a rare issue if you have a good assortment of kitchenware.

You also have to consider unique gas stove regulations. For example, gas stovetops cannot be installed by a window that can be opened, providing you with some additional planning.

Some concerns have also been raised over the presence of natural gas in homes as it can impact asthmatics and those with lung issues. Appropriate ventilation, like an exhaust fan or rangehood, often negate any problems.

So all in all, the answer to the million dollar question is… it’s up to you. What you want from your stove may be different to what the person next door wants from theirs. There’s no single definitive answer when it comes to gas vs electric stove tops.

Determining what you want from your kitchen will then help you decide on the best cooktop. It will also be influenced by existing fuel supplies to your home, cost effectiveness and more. 

Whichever option you choose, you can always chat to Mr Emergency for advice and input. Our team of licensed electricians and professional gas fitting specialists are available for round the clock services and installations. We’re ready to go if you require support with your gas cooktop or electric cooktop journey.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.