Is your current stove ruining your roast, scorching your salmon, or burning your brownies? Perhaps it’s time for a replacement.

Fortunately for you, this one’s close to a no-brainer. You’ve had nothing but electric stoves over the years, so now you’re going to replace with a new model that fits your décor and has a few more gadgets. Right? Uh, maybe not so much – at least not until you consider the pros and cons of staying the course or switching to gas.

Gas stoves require a gas line to operate. If you don’t already have a gas line to your home, adding one (assuming there’s a gas main on your street) could be cost prohibitive. Electric stoves, on the other hand, pose no such obstacle.

Costs can vary greatly. Gas stoves tend to be a bit less expensive than their electric counterparts. What’s more, utility costs are up to 30% lower with gas, giving it both a short- and long-term edge over electric.

Consider overall energy efficiency. While a gas stove might cost less to purchase and operate, it’s not necessarily the more energy efficient option. Of the energy produced, only about 40% is transferred to food with a gas range, versus about 74% with electric. Want to be even more energy-efficient? Consider an induction cooktop, with up to 90% of the energy applied to cooking, thus very little waste.

Response to temperature changes. Overall, gas stoves offer better control over temperature settings than electric stoves. With the turn of a knob, flames spread around the bottom of a pot or pan and can be adjusted. Electric stoves take a little while longer to heat up, change temperatures, and cool down. If you’re an avid chef, you may want to choose gas over electric for improved charring, flambeeing, and toasting.

Safety first. Because there is no open flame, electric stoves are generally considered safer than gas. Where there’s an open flame, there’s a chance for a dish towel or article of clothing catching fire. Also, if someone accidentally turns the knob on a gas stove just enough to release gas without igniting, carbon monoxide poisoning can ensue.

Not an easy choice, is it? Well, here’s one more thing to consider. Whether you choose gas or electric, there’s always a chance of a kitchen fire. And that’s one more reason to ensure your home is properly covered by smoke and CO detectors – not just in the kitchen, but throughout your living spaces. Contact Now Security Systems today for a free in-home security consultation and proposal.