What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Gas Stoves?

Advantages of a gas stove include energy efficiency, precise temperature control, immediate heating and cooling, lower operating cost and the ability to work without power. Disadvantages of a gas stove include more safety hazards and a usually higher initial cost than an electric stove.

A gas stove is considered a greener option than an electric stove because it creates instant heat and utilizes instant heat control. More recent gas stoves that use electric ignition can reduce gas use up to 40 percent in comparison to those that use traditional pilot lights.

The temperature of a gas stove can be adjusted very precisely, which may enable better cooking results. Gas stoves also provide consistent heating for uneven or warped pans, while electric stoves cannot provide even heating for such pans.

A gas stove heats up immediately so that cooking can be started faster than with an electric stove. A gas stove also cools immediately, so cookware does not need to be removed from the burner after turning off the flame.

A gas stove costs less to operate than an electric stove. Additionally, a gas stove can be lighted with a match so that it cooks during power outages.

However, a gas stove usually costs more than an equivalent electric stove. Gas stoves also have more safety hazards than electric stoves, because natural gas is very flammable and harmful to inhale. A ventilation hood is important to use with a gas stove, because it helps remove the hazardous fumes.