Are Gas Cooktops Really Better Than Electric?

By Author: Stitch Rojas
Total Articles: 165
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It is a well-known fact that a remodeled kitchen can greatly increase the resale value of any home. Even if one is not planning to sell his or her abode anytime soon, it is still a wise decision to update one's kitchen in order to take advantage of increased cooking efficiency, heightened visual appeal, and long-term financial savings. For instance, if a kitchen possesses old and outdated appliances, new replacements would grant innumerable boons on the home owners.

The biggest draw of gas cooktops are their ability to provide an instant flame. It is very easy to control a gas cooktop because the user can visually see the flame and adjust it with just a turn of a knob. Due to the flame, gas cooktops allow for even heat distribution as well as higher cooking temperatures than electric cooktops can provide. Cooling of the burners is also quicker with gas cooktops since the heat stops instantly when turned off. Gas cooktops can be supplied with either propane or natural gas. What type of gas is available usually depends on the location of the home. Since most gas cooktops today have an electric ignition, they also require ...
... an electric circuit as well as the gas supply.

Another good note to the gas version, is whether using natural gas or propane, gas cooktops come in handy in the case of power outages. Nothing is more aggravating than a power outage in the middle of cooking dinner. Some gas models come with downward draft ventilation. This provides the placement of the cooktop on kitchen islands, or for areas without vent hoods.

Electric cooktops come in several styles such as induction, coil, and smooth top surfaces. For fast and easy clean-up, the smooth top surface provides no groves or burners to clean. Smooth top surfaces are easy to maintain, but not maintenance free. Selective cookware is essential for these as they are easily damaged. Scaring may occur if non-coated cast iron cookware is used, and pitting may occur on the surface if sugar substances spill over and is not wiped up immediately.

Coil surfaces provide a variety of cookware usage, but clean-up can be difficult. Induction cooktops are among the newest electric models, and rate considerably more efficient in instant heating and temperature regulating capabilities. They produce no cool down time, thus the surface is instantly cool when the heat is turned off. Also, induction cooktops provide an easy to clean surface. The downfalls include a specific type of cookware to be used. This cookware must have an iron content. If a magnet sticks to the bottom of the pan, then the cookware will work with the induction surface.

Considering user preference, electric and gas cooktops provide desirable qualities to aid the consumer in preparing meals. As technology improves, so do the appliances we buy. Electric and gas appliances come in a variety of styles. Electric cooktops are noted to be more energy-efficent and easy to clean. With gas cooktops, some things are for certain. Instant heat, a variety of cookware applicable to use, and dinner will continue cooking should the lights go out. Also, according to consumer preferences, cooking results seem to be clearly different between the two options.

Angela Price is an interior decorator and home staging expert. For more information on gas cooktops, visit http://www.dacor.com.