Gas vs Electric Stove

Range/Oven - Gas

How it Works

The gas range uses open-flame stovetop burners: each burner has a heavy cast iron frame above it to support pots and pans. These gas stoves regulate heat with valves activated by dial knobs. Depending on the model, the knob may double as an ignition switch or there may be an automatic striker or pilot light ignition source.

Ranges usually include an oven for baking, roasting and broiling. Some ovens use a fan to distribute heat for even cooking.

The gas range is connected by pipe to a propane tank or to a natural gas line, and should be installed by a licensed technician.

What Can Go Wrong?

Control valves regulate the flow of gas in each burner: when those valves fail, the corresponding burner will no longer work. Failure of such a valve may leave the burner in a set position.

Any impact to the stove top may damage the burner housing and cause a gas leak.

Environmental Impact

Although the gas range is more energy efficient than the electric stove because gas heats the food quicker, the carbon footprint is generally the same: they each produce about 160 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO₂) per month.

Tips & Tricks

Maintenance Tips

Avoid placing a gas range where vibrations occur: vibration can loosen the gas line connectors and eventually cause a gas leak.
Have your gas connection inspected regularly by a qualified professional.
Inspect the seal around your oven door. Any damage to this seal may allow heat to escape, reducing energy efficiency.

Loss Prevention Tips

Make sure that the oven’s electrical fan is spinning freely: noise may indicate a faulty bearing.
Make sure that liquid contents in the oven are covered to avoid splatter which can reduce heating efficiency, damage components or start a fire.

Energy Conservation Tips

The gas range is more energy efficient when the system is kept clean. Inspect and clean areas that may be splattered on while cooking.