Gas or Electric Stoves?

Sometimes your stove can just be an unused appliance since we all rely on those microwaves so much these days. But the right stove can make a big difference in meal preparation. Here are some basic differences.

1. Cleaning

Traditional stoves were hard to clean. Generally, you had to take them all apart just to get at the mess. Newer electric stoves come with easy clean glass solid tops, eliminating this problem. Gas stoves require a little extra effort as you must clean the burner grate and the area underneath.

2. Cost

Electric stoves either traditionally or the new easy clean are generally less expensive to purchase than gas units. If your house has only an electric outlet for the stove and you would like to purchase a gas stove, you would have an additional cost to install a gas line to the unit (if you have a gas provider in your area). This cost will depend on how far from the gas meter the stove is located. Qualtire Plumbing & Construction does provide free estimates for gas lines and services such as these. Operational costs are fairly comparable.

3. Convenience

Gas will get hotter faster and also cool down faster. Electric sometimes takes a little more getting used to as it heats slower and cools slower. When you are cooking with electric and are through, you need to remove the pan from the burner as it stays hot. Gas stoves will cool as soon as you shut the gas off so pans don’t have to be removed immediately. Professional cooks, as I’m sure you’ve noticed if you watch the cooking shows, often prefer the gas stove.

4. Preference

Since there are pros and cons to each, it really just boils down to what you like and are comfortable with. Appliances are an important part of updating that kitchen, and stainless steel is still quite popular whether you choose a gas or electric stove.

Being out of town some this past month, I haven’t written as many kitchen remodel blogs as I had intended so I’m going to continue with kitchen remodeling ideas into September. If anyone has any specific topics you would like to discuss or have me address, please let me know. We’re always here to answer your questions and give you the best advice we can. You can call us at 602-246-0656 or email us at info@qualtire.com. Qualtire Plumbing & Construction has been your Phoenix plumbing and remodeling company since 1964.