There are few hotter debates among foodies and cooks than the question of what’s better, gas or electric cook tops. Everyone has a preference, but like any choice for your kitchen there are pros and cons. (See last week’s blog where we explore the question of built-in vs. free-standing appliances.) Of course some of us don’t have a choice—without a gas hookup, electric cook top it is. When you do have the option, there are things to consider. Gas stoves are often cited for their superior ability to heat solid foods such as meats, while electric cook tops receive praise and are considered better for boiling liquids as the result of a more even application of heat across the bottom of a pot. Safety is another consideration; gas hookups require professional installation and maintenance to ensure safety. Even electric cook tops can have safety concerns, for example a smooth electric cook top can be mistaken for a countertop surface and if there is no visual (i.e. light) indication that the heating element is on a burn can result. 

If you’re concerned about energy efficiency of one model over another, there are differences but they are slight. Gas burners provide heat instantly, as opposed to electric cooktops which take time to heat up and cool down; in general this makes gas more energy efficient than electric. New stoves which use an electric ignition (versus the old-fashioned pilot light which burns continually) are the most efficient, but considering that only about 5% of a home’s energy output is used during cooking, concerns about which model is more energy efficient aren’t as crucial as with other appliances like refrigerators or washing machines.

If you don’t have a personal preference and you are trying to decide whether to buy a gas or an electric cook top, discuss the issue with a professional. Our team at K&N Sales can help you choose the right stove for your home—stop into our showroom and see us today.