Buying A New Range? Differences Between Gas And Electric

When the time comes to purchase a new oven, do you know whether you want a gas one or an electric one, or would you prefer a combination? If you have never used both types, you may have no idea which to choose, but here are some factors you may want to think about as you decide which to get.

Your Current One

When replacing an oven range, you may want to consider the type you currently have. Choosing the same type will make installation easier and cheaper, and this is one of the first factors to consider. If you are building a new home and must make the decision, you can look at the other options.

The reason it is easier to choose the same type as what you have is because the right power is already there. If you have an electric oven and want to switch to gas, you may have to hire a company to run a gas line to your new appliance. If you already have a gas stove, the line would already be there.

Cleaning

One of the top benefits offered by electric stoves is that they are so easy to clean. An electric stove is smooth and flat, and you can simply wipe it clean when needed. A gas stove is much different than this. You will have to remove the trays from it before you can clean it, and you will have to clean the trays as well as the actual stove.

Cleaning the inside of the oven is about the same for both types, and both generally offer built-in self-cleaning features.

Energy Usage and Costs

When comparing the costs to operate each type of range, you will find that gas stoves and ranges are generally cheaper. This is because gas is usually cheaper than electricity, and gas tends to operate more efficiently than electric. Heat powered by gas generally cooks food faster than heat powered by electricity.

One thing to consider is that both types of ovens cost about the same price; however, you may be able to purchase electric ranges for slightly lower prices than gas ones.

Safety

One feature a lot of people consider as they shop for new ovens is safety. Here are some of the factors to consider as you compare the safety of a gas oven vs. an electric one:

• Gas stoves have pilot lights that are always on – this may cause the appliance to be warm or hot in certain areas at all times.
• Gas stoves have flames – when you turn on a gas stove, it cooks and heats up food with a flame. A flame is not present in an electric stove or oven.
• Gas is combustible – many insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner's insurance policies for homes that are gas-free. This is because gas in a home can burst or lead to fires, whereas electricity is not considered combustible.

Cooking and Baking Results

If you have never cooked on an electric stovetop, you may have trouble adjusting to the way this works. Electric stoves are very different than gas ones, and it may take a while for you to get used to the differences. Gas stoves tend to heat up faster and cook things a little bit quicker though.

When it comes to the way electric ovens and gas ovens bake, there is also a difference. Electric ovens usually distribute the heat more evenly, and this is one of the main reasons professional bakers prefer electric ovens over gas ones.

If there are features you like about both, you could always choose a combination range. You can purchase ranges with electric ovens and gas stoves, or you can find them with gas ovens and electric stoves.

Comparing these features will help you select the right type for your needs. As you shop, you may also want to look for other features that are important to you, such as size and color. Be sure to visit an appliance dealer in your area for more information.