Is it easy to convert my electric stove to a gas one?

Considering every professional kitchen is equipped with gas and not electric stoves, you’d have to think that there are some pretty awesome benefits for your cooking skills on gas stoves as opposed to electric ones… But have you ever really considered the switch? If you have an electric stove at home but want the speed and control that gas can offer you then you probably want to convert, but how easy is it?

What are the benefits of gas?

So, what are the benefits of gas over electricity? This is a relevant point and one that many people ask, especially considering the increased social awareness of environmental issues when it comes to electricity usage.

So, why gas? There are two major components that are generally considered – cost and the environment.

When it comes to price, gas is often cheaper than electricity. It is as simple as that, however, not every area has access to a natural gas grid so it isn’t always an option.

The second is the environmental component, as gas is a greener option than electricity. It is an all-natural source of energy and an eco-friendly choice, which is a big plus for a lot of people and a major reason to opt for gas.

Gas vs electric oven – why convert?

You are probably asking why you should convert to a gas stove, oven or cooktop – why change? Some of the benefits of gas stoves, compared to electric stoves, include :

• Cost: Although electric stoves are generally cheaper initially, they are more expensive to run than their gas counterparts over the long term
• Cleaning: Gas stoves are generally more durable than electric ones, however, they can be trickier to clean due to multiple parts as opposed to a flat heating surface
• Performance: Performance is an aspect that is made up of lots of different things, with both an electric and gas stove having benefits. Although gas stoves provide instant heat more consistently and respond promptly to temperature changes, once heated up an electric stove provides better heat distribution but their coils and plates take a while to heat up/cool down – a gas stove generally cooks things quicker though
• Safety: Given the open flame of a gas stove, you would think that more accidents occur from gas stoves, however, this generally isn’t the case. Although you must always be careful around an open flame, the flat surface of an electric stove can stay hot for many minutes after being turned off, and it is easy to lean on it and burn yourself

Both gas and electric ovens that are wired into main systems must be installed by a qualified and appropriately licenced gas fitter or electrician, complete with a compliance certificate confirming all necessary regulations were complied with and testing completed.

What are the different gas options?

There are two different gas options – natural and LPG – to consider when looking at converting your electric oven :

• Natural gas is provided on a similar grid to electricity
• LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas, is in a tank that you need to either refill when empty or replace with a new tank

Although natural gas is easier in many ways, not all areas have a natural gas grid so LPG is the only option available. Speak to your local gas fitter who will be able to assist you with the availability of both options to your location.

Converting your cooktop from electricity to gas

Despite some common misconceptions, the conversion from electricity to gas is quite an easy one, regardless if you have reticulated gas to your door or not. Your fully qualified gas fitter will be able to assist with all your questions and concerns regarding the conversion, and the best way to go about converting your kitchen stove from electric to gas.

If you currently have reticulated gas in your home, it is as simple as laying a pipe to the kitchen and connecting it. If you do not have reticulated gas already, you will need to have gas cylinders installed, however, both options can be quite straightforward and inexpensive when done properly.

If you are still unsure, that’s perfectly understandable. If you need some more information contact the team at Fallon Solutions on 1300 762 260 and we can discuss all the steps to converting your current oven to gas today. Or even complete our gas fitting enquiry form.