Which is better: gas or electric stoves?

For the majority of new settlers, as well as for those who simply decided to overhaul and upgrade equipment, a difficult question arises: "Which stove is better to choose: gas or electric?" Some believe that the traditional gas-fired option is a more rational choice, while others believe that more modern plug-in models are the most suitable kitchen appliances.

To thoroughly understand this, you should study all the advantages and disadvantages of both types of devices, as well as take into account the design, installation and operation of models on the modern household appliances market. All these nuances will be discussed in detail in this article.

First of all, it is rational to compare the designs and principles of operation of gas and electric devices. The first type differs in that gas is used during operation, that is, food is actually cooked over an open fire. The design of the gas unit assumes its connection to an autonomous gas source or to a centralized wire. Then the substance, entering the burner, mixes with oxygen compounds and ignites, leaving through the diffuser. On one device, as a rule, there are burners of different sizes, and the gas supply power is regulated using a special valve located on the gas distribution pipe.

In the case of a generating set, the principle of operation is different. The device is connected to the electrical network, then the current increases the temperature of the tubular electric heater to a certain value. Heat controls are located on the front panel of the household appliance. Among them there are both electronic and mechanical models (depending on which class the device belongs to). The maximum temperature indicator is determined by the power of the unit, as well as the materials from which the heater is created. The higher the conductivity readings, the faster cooking is done with electrical equipment.

If we consider options for gas stoves, then a number of indisputable positive characteristics can be distinguished.

• Such a unit is more economical than any other household device. Using it, you will only pay for gas, which is inexpensive. This option is especially beneficial for those who love to cook and spend a lot of time on this hobby.
• Gas-fueled devices are also cheaper in themselves than electrical analogs. This option is better if you have budget constraints for repairs.
• Gas devices have a very convenient system for adjusting the flame supply, which allows you to accurately measure the desired fire strength.
• Since the containers of ingredients are on an open fire, food will cook quite quickly. A more powerful heat is supplied from an open flame.
• You can also use containers made of many materials, even if there is some damage or burn on the bottom of the containers. The stove will not suffer from this.
• Take into account also that the coefficient of efficiency for such stoves is from 60 to 70%, while for analogs it is several times less.
• Such household equipment is not afraid of the lack of electricity. You can safely continue the cooking process, even if there are temporary interruptions in the light.

But cooking equipment that runs on gas, in addition to its many advantages, also also has negative characteristics.

• The most serious of these is the explosiveness of the gas on which these stoves work. Carelessness in operation can lead to a serious tragedy, since a gas leak can easily provoke a large-scale explosion.
• Also, careless use can lead to a fire inside the building. Open flames can easily ignite towels and other flammable materials.
• Ovens of such devices, as a rule, are not equipped with an oven adjustment system on the hob.
• During the operation of such a stove, gas compounds are thrown into the air, which may not have a very pleasant smell, and soot may also form. Such a plate obliges to use the hood and regularly replace its filters.

The electric analogue of a gas stove also has a number of positive characteristics.

• Operational safety and easy connection. It is enough to connect the device to electricity, and it will work for a long time without endangering the life and health of the owners.
• Ovens in such models are distinguished by their ability to automate work, it is also possible to change the temperature inside the cabinet and prepare complex dishes.
• Due to the absence of open flames, the electric stove does not form any soot.
• During the use of such units, no compounds are released into the air, so there is no need to often turn on the hood.
• Modern models of electric household appliances for cooking are distinguished by a variety of designs, elegance and unusual design.

Also, electric stoves are characterized by a number of disadvantages.

• The cost of the devices is quite high.
• Moreover, such units are uneconomical in the process of use, since they absorb quite a lot of electricity, especially if you often cook. As a result, the utility bill can increase significantly with the purchase of this "device".
• The operation of the device is completely dependent on the health of the electricity. If you experience interruptions in the light, you will not be able to cook.
• In the process of creating a dish, there is no way to quickly change the temperature of the hotplate.
• The device heats up rather slowly (just like it cools down).

When choosing a kitchen appliance, you need to take into account several nuances. These include the features of the room in which the stove will be installed, the budget for purchasing the device, the frequency and purpose of using the stove, and the interior of the kitchen.

In terms of benefits, the gas unit is undoubtedly in the lead. But now the choice often depends on the characteristics of the house. Some modern new buildings now do not use the gas network, therefore, if you live in such an apartment, you can choose only the electric unit.In a private house, especially if it is used seasonally, it is much more profitable to install equipment that runs on blue fuel, since it is more economical. It is enough to stock up on one bottle for the whole season.

The price of the stove is determined, in addition to the main source of work, also by a number of additional functions that it can be equipped with. Stoves with an oven will be more expensive, so it makes sense to buy them only if you intend to use an oven. A gas appliance without an oven will cost you the cheapest option, and an electric stove with an oven, a grill function, and a temperature control system will be the most expensive option.

If you think about safety in the apartment, then it is better to install an electric, and not a gas stove, which will not create gas leaks. Otherwise, with careless operation, there is a risk of endangering not only your own life, but also the lives of the inhabitants of neighboring apartments. In a private home, in the event of a leak, the scale of the disaster may be smaller, but you should still be as careful as possible when using gas-powered equipment.

For both gas appliances and those that operate from the mains, there are rules for safe operation.

• Do not allow children or the elderly to operate the equipment. This is especially true for gas devices. Inadvertently, people can turn on the gas or forget to turn it off, which is fraught with tragedy.
• Read the instructions supplied with the device before using it.
• Check the surface of the slab regularly. Also, do not allow liquid or crumbs to drip into the cooking zones. Clean the unit at least once a week with special means that do not scratch the surface.

For information on which stove is better to choose for the kitchen, see the next video.