Should You Go with Gas or Electric?
What’s a better choice, gas or electric? If you’re redesigning your home or shopping for a new home, what type of appliance hookup is best?
You might not always have a choice. But if you do, or if you’re open to converting your fuel source, a renovation project is a great time to consider the pros and cons of gas and electric. Always remember that if you need expert consultation, our friendly, knowledgeable SESCOS technicians are standing by to help.
Gas Ovens and Stovetops
Pros: There’s a reason that most chefs and home cooks prefer cooking with gas. A gas stovetop gives you immediate, fully controllable heat and keeps the rest of the kitchen relatively cool because it doesn’t emit much power. Gas stoves tend to be more energy-efficient than electric ovens and stovetops.
Cons: On the downside, gas stoves are a pain to clean. You have to clean the vent, hood, grease trap and the burners. They’re also more dangerous. Gas leaks are no joke. They can cause respiratory problems, illness, and dangerous fires.
Electric Ovens
Pros: Unlike chefs, bakers prefer electric stoves. Electric ovens produce more even temperatures and are easier to use. They’re also a breeze to clean, especially the glass-topped models. You don’t need a vent or a range hood and you won’t spend time scrubbing greasy, dirt-caked burners.
Cons: Electric ovens have the disadvantages of slower cooking time and less control when you’re cooking on the stovetop. They’re also less energy-efficient than gas ovens.
Gas Dryers
Pros: Gas dryers are dependable and long-lasting, and they’ll save you money on your energy bill. Gas dryers consume very little energy. They’re also fast, drying clothes in half the time that electric dryers take. This is better for your clothes, your budget and your time.
Cons: Their initial cost is higher, and design selections are limited. If you want to use a gas dryer you need to make sure there’s an available gas line to your home or business. If there isn’t one, you’ll have to pay to install it, which adds to your cost.
Electric Dryers
Pros: Electric dryers have a small price tag and they come in a wide variety of styles and designs. They can be installed anywhere, although you’ll need an outside vent for the heat.
Cons: Compared to gas dryers, they will cost you a bundle in utility bills over the long term. Their long drying time can be tough on your clothing, so if you use one, it’s a good idea to hang-dry your favorite garments whenever possible.
Electric Fireplaces
Pros: Easy to use, electric fireplaces add warmth to a room and help you cut your heating bills. They are energy-efficient and cost less to run than gas fireplaces do.
Cons: They don’t have that “real fire” feeling, although newer designs do an excellent job of capturing the look of flames.
Gas Fireplaces
Pros: They give a more realistic fire-like ambiance than electrics do because they produce actual flames.
Cons: They are much more expensive to run than electric fireplaces. They’re also hot to the touch and definitely more dangerous than electrics.
Making the Choice
As you can see, the answer isn’t always clear-cut. You’ll have to find the right mix of convenience, costs and design considerations.
If you’d like expert help on installing and servicing appliances, let SESCOS lend a hand. We can help you make an informed decision when it comes to renovating and upgrading your appliances. Give us a call and let us put the power of knowledge and experience to work for you.