The Pros and Cons of Gas Vs. Electric Ovens

Choosing the right oven for a kitchen space can be a difficult decision, especially considering the vast amount of options that are available. If you're starting from scratch in your kitchen, the first step in narrowing down those options is to choose whether or not you want a gas or electric oven. While one isn't necessarily superior over the other, there are plenty of pros and cons to consider when deciding on whether to choose a gas or electric oven for your kitchen.

Gas Pros

Cooking Quality

One advantage that a gas oven has over an electric is in the quality of the cooking experience. A gas stove creates a consistent flame that can easily be adjusted and, more importantly, is easy to tell if it’s on or off. Additionally, cooking on a gas range is often more efficient, with the end result rendering food that is cooked faster with greater consistency. Also, adjustments in temperature are faster with a gas oven. However, gas burns at a hotter temperature than electric ovens, which tends to release moisture that isn’t great for roasting. Additionally, you will find the need to rotate your meals in a gas oven more often than in an electric one to prevent burning.

Cost of Gas

One big thing to consider with any oven are the costs associated. If your home is already equipped with a gas line, then a gas oven will actually cost you less to use on a daily basis than an electric one. However, if you have to run a gas line and set everything up to work with a gas-powered range, then the initial installation costs will increase accordingly.

Gas Cons

Large Price Tag

One major disadvantage to a gas oven is the initial purchasing price and installation. Gas ovens are generally more costly to purchase upfront and, as already stated, hooking one up can sometimes add even more to the price. However, once everything is hooked up and ready to go, gas ovens take less energy to cook with, and will, therefore, save you money in the long run.

Potential Health Risks

Another negative element that goes along with gas ovens is their potentially dangerous nature. Gas lines can develop leaks, which could result in toxic gas filling up your home.

Electric Pros

Style

One advantage of electric ovens is their looks. Most electric ovens come with a nice glass cooking surface that can certainly add flair to any kitchen. Additionally, these smooth surfaces are easier to clean than their gas counterparts, which require removing burners and plates to clean up spills.

Ease of Use

Another positive aspect of electric stoves that potential buyers should take into consideration is their ease of use. Power is always on with electric ovens, and with a turn of a knob or the press of a button, you’re ready to go. Further, the smooth countertop of electric stoves offers a solid place to rest pots and pans. They also tend to come equipped with extra space under the oven for storage, which gas ovens often don't have.

Small Price Tag

As previously noted, electric ovens cost considerably less than gas ovens. In addition to their lower price ranges, these ovens often come with little set-up and adjustments needed in the kitchen. They simply plug into an existing outlet and the electricity from the home powers them. No need to install costly gas lines or worry about leaks down the road.

Electric Cons

Cooking Quality

Although they might be easier to operate and are less expensive to purchase than gas ovens, electric ovens tend to cook food slower than their counterparts. This is especially true as it's sometimes hard to tell if the oven is on at the proper setting since you don’t have an open flame. However, it should be noted that electric ovens distribute heat better when baking, and the dry heat they produce is great for roasting.

Affected by Power Outages

Another major drawback of electric stoves is power outages. Depending on your location, power outages may be something you deal with on a regular basis. If that is the case, then whenever the power is down your stove won’t work. Further, it should be noted that some generators do not have the capability of powering ovens, so even a backup supply of power may not be of any help.