Electric vs. Gas Ovens

If you’re buying a new oven, you’ll first need to decide between gas vs electric model. If you already have a gas oven, you’re more likely to get another one to replace it, in part because you’re used to it and also because you have the connection already in place. It’s not a foregone conclusion, however, with more homes transitioning from gas appliances to electric ones for use inside the home.

This decision is not just about cooking preferences; it also involves considerations of efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. Appliances Online has compiled this handy guide to help you understand the differences between the efficiencies of these types of ovens.

Electric ovens are overwhelmingly the most popular choice in Australian homes, due to their efficiency and ease of use. They heat up quickly and have an even heat distribution, ensuring food is thoroughly cooked.

Electric ovens tend to be more energy-efficient than their gas counterparts. According to the Australian Government’s Energy Rating initiative, modern electric ovens use less energy than gas and in many areas of the country can be cheaper to operate in the long run.

Electric ovens typically have a drier heat than gas ovens, because electricity doesn’t generate any vapour as a byproduct during the cooking process. Today, steam ovens allow you to achieve and maintain a controlled amount of moisture without burning gas.

Gas ovens, on the other hand, offer instant heat and give you greater temperature control. Professional chefs often favour this level of control, as well as the moist heat produced by gas flames that can be good for roasting meats. When the gas in the oven burns, it produces water vapour as a byproduct of combustion. This water vapour creates a moist cooking environment. In the same way that they heat up more quickly, gas ovens usually cool down faster than electric ones.

However, gas ovens are less energy-efficient than electric ovens. They generally require a larger amount of energy to heat up and maintain the desired temperature than electric ovens. Despite this, gas ovens can be a more cost-effective option in areas where gas prices are lower than electricity. The cost of gas varies significantly across the country, with customers in WA paying up to a third less than those in Vic, for example.

Natural gas ovens and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) ovens offer unique advantages. Natural gas ovens are connected directly to a household's natural gas supply, providing a constant and reliable source of fuel.

LPG gas ovens, on the other hand, are powered by propane or butane stored in portable tanks in outdoor areas. LPG gas ovens are often used in homes that are not connected to a natural gas line.

For those who prefer roasting and baking with electricity, but enjoy the flexibility of frying, simmering and boiling on an open flame, freestanding dual fuel ranges offer this combination of electric oven and gas cooktop.

As more complex appliances, dual fuel ranges usually have higher upfront purchase and installation costs compared to standalone gas or electric cookers, as they require both gas connections and electrical hardwiring.

When considering the environmental impact, electric ovens are generally considered more eco-friendly. They produce fewer greenhouse gases compared to gas ovens. However, this largely depends on how the electricity is produced. If the electricity comes from renewable sources, such as solar or wind, then an electric oven can be a more sustainable choice.

In terms of energy efficiency, electric ovens have a slight edge over gas ovens. They use less energy and can therefore have lower operating costs. However, the choice between a gas and an electric oven will ultimately depend on your personal preferences, cooking needs, and the energy prices in your area.

At Appliances Online, we offer a wide range of both electric and gas ovens, as well as electric models with gas stovetops. Our team is always ready to assist you in making the best choice for your kitchen.

Choosing between an electric and a gas oven is a significant decision that can impact your cooking experience and your energy bills. We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights to help you make an informed choice.