How to Compare Electric and Gas Ovens

The right oven can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

A new oven represents a substantial investment for most homeowners. One of the biggest decisions a buyer must make when shopping for an oven is whether to choose an electric or gas-powered model. While both gas and electric ovens offer their own advantages and drawbacks, the choice between the two is largely a matter of personal preference. When comparing these two technologies, consider factors like connectivity, energy costs, programming options and cooking functions.

Instructions

1. Consult a professional contractor to ask about connectivity options. Inquire about the possibility of running gas lines to your home, as well as the cost of this process. You will also need an appropriate venting or exhaust system for a gas stove. If you plan to install an electric stove, you'll need a contractor to install a dedicated circuit capable of supporting the electric demands of a stove.

2. Compare operating costs for electric versus gas stoves. Call local electric and gas suppliers and ask for unit pricing. In some areas, electricity costs much less than gas, while the opposite is true in other regions. According to the "American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy," gas is typically more efficient than electricity for cooking, but the difference in cost is usually fairly negligible in most areas.

3. Choose your stove based on your cooking patterns. According to "Choice," gas stoves provide moist heat to keep meat and baked goods from drying out, while electric stoves tend to be fairly drying. Gas stoves without a fan assist may cook unevenly, while those with a fan can help distribute heat more evenly throughout the oven. Electric stoves provide even cooking, but require time to warm-up, while gas ovens warm up more quickly.

4. Consider programming options. Gas stoves typically feature simple temperature knobs. They may have a basic push-type timer, but offer relatively few programming options. Electric stoves, on the other hand, allow users to program cooking times, temperatures and other operations for smoother and easier cooking. They may even be programmed to switch off automatically or change the temperature mid-way through cooking. If these features are important to you, focus on electric oven models.

5. Find an oven that fits your budget. According to "Consumer Search," gas stoves tend to be more expensive than electric models, especially once the cost of installation and gas connections are added. Buyers will find a much wider selection of electric ovens, with a broader range of features to choose from, while gas ovens tend to be less widely available.

References

• American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy: Efficient Cooking
• Consumer Search: Wall Ovens
• Choice: Buying Guide for Ovens
• Consumer Reports: Cooktops and Wall Ovens