Choosing between gas or electric ovens can be a difficult decision. But with the help of this article, you will be able to make an informed decision for your kitchen. You will learn about some key differences in how each type of oven cooks and which one is better for the environment.
If you are in the process of designing a new kitchen or if you simply need a new oven many of us will simply default to an electric oven. Gas ovens, to many, are reminiscent of the free-standing cookers that were popular in the 70s and 80s. But in fact, gas ovens are still a viable alternative to an electric model.
Let’s look at the science first of all, which heats up quicker? Well, this is a difficult question to answer. Both types of oven heat up at the same rate when full, but because electric coils are smaller than gas flames they can be heated more quickly at low temperatures which means that you will need less pre-heating time with an electric oven compared with its gas equivalent.
If you are thinking about the green credentials of your heating (and let’s face it, we all need to become a lot greener) then the facts are that electric ovens are more efficient than gas. A good quality electricity cooker can be up to three times as energy-efficient as a standard cooker with an efficiency rating of around 80%. It’s also worth bearing in mind that the UK government want us to use less gas (gas boilers for instance will not be installed after 2030 as we move to become a carbon-neutral country).
Gas, however, tends to be a cheaper utility to buy, per unit of energy. However, the recent price hikes in the cost of fuel (of all kinds) has made the cost of all types of energy more expensive. In terms of durability, gas ovens tend to outlive their electric counterparts. Why? Quite simply there are fewer things to go wrong when it comes to a gas oven as there are fewer parts.
However, when it comes down to cooking, there is little difference between both types of oven and many people never notice any issue with the end result of cooking on gas versus an electric oven.
What about safety? Is one type of oven safer than another? It’s a no brainer really. Gas ovens are far safer than electric ones as you don’t have to worry about getting an electric shock from the appliance – always remember that switches off automatically when not in use, keeping your family safe and sound.
In conclusion, if having a more efficient energy rating is important for you then go with an electric oven. This will also future proof your choice of oven as the use of gas in the home becomes used less and gas boilers become obsolete. Buying an oven doesn’t have to be a minefield. We’d recommend you check out some of the buying guides over at www.euronics.co.uk or head to one of their stores for some friendly and expert advice.
