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Gas vs Electric Ovens: Weighing the Pros and Cons
2 minute read • Last update May 2024
Unlike gas or electric stoves, ovens have a closed compartment with heating elements, providing a controlled space for baking, roasting, and broiling. Some appliances integrate both a stove and an oven (into what’s commonly known as a range). Not sure which model to choose? Here’s a comprehensive list of gas oven vs electric oven pros and cons and some FAQ answers to help guide you.
What is a gas oven?
The inside of gas ovens feature a visible burner or igniter at the base, typically near the back. This is the component responsible for generating the flame that provides the heat.
Pros
- When gas combusts, it produces moisture, enhancing the texture and moisture retention of many baked goods.
- Gas heat dissipates almost immediately once turned off, meaning your kitchen cools down again quickly.
Cons
- Because they produce small amounts of carbon monoxide, proper ventilation is essential.
- The open flame can pose safety and health risks, especially in households with small children.
What is an electric oven?
Besides the fuel source, there are few visible differences between a gas and electric range. However, there are a few practical differences to consider.
Pros
- Electric ovens offer precise temperature control, which can be helpful for complex recipes.
- A standard electric or gas range is 30 inches wide, making placement easier for electric models where supply lines are not a concern.
Cons
- Electric ovens typically have longer preheating times, meaning it’s harder to produce energy savings.
- Electric coils hold heat, so it takes longer to adjust and stabilize oven temperatures when switching between high and low heat.
How to tell if you have an electric oven vs a gas range
You’ll see a visible flame inside a gas model when the oven is on. Whether it’s installed using a power cord or gas line is also a telltale sign. Plus, in the case of a range, the surface of an electric model will be flat, whereas gas burners are raised.
Electric vs gas oven: which is better for cooking?
The answer depends on what type of cooking you’re doing. If you ask a trained chef, many say they prefer gas because it helps them achieve high heat faster. However, bakers tend to prefer electric models because they distribute heat more evenly and are easier to clean and maintain. Either way, for most home cooks, the practical difference tends to be negligible.
Which is the most cost-efficient oven?
Calculating the overall cost-efficiency of an electric oven vs gas oven includes accounting for initial purchase, installation, and energy efficiency. As with stoves, gas ovens, and ranges are typically more expensive to buy and install but cheaper to operate in the long run. So, to get the best deal, you’ll need to carefully weigh the pros and cons of a gas oven vs an electric oven against your budget and the utility rates in your area.
Affordable energy plans from BKVE
Wherever your gas oven vs electric oven research takes you, choosing a trustworthy and reliable utility provider is vital.
At BKV Energy, we specialize in delivering straightforward energy plans at affordable prices. With simple fixed rates and no minimum usage requirements or monthly base charges, switching to one of our plans could save you up to $500 per year.
Contact us today to learn more and find the right plan for your household.
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