Are you looking to buy a new set of appliances for your new home? Or do you wish to replace your old and malfunctioning ones?
When it comes to certain home items, there is always the debate on which ones are better: Gas appliances or electric appliances? There are different factors to consider when resolving this matter.
These include durability, price tag, and energy-efficiency. Though the energy consumption of Americans will decline this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it doesn’t mean you need to use energy-efficient appliances.
So when we put these appliances head-to-head, which of the two options will stand out? Continue reading below as we discuss the pros and cons of gas and electric appliances.
Gas Stoves: The Pros
You will commonly hear people comparing the gas range and the electric range. The comparisons can be close, depending on the factors you are looking at. But let’s first take a look at the advantages of gas stoves.
If longevity is what you’re looking for, then a gas range is your best bet. Compared to their electric counterparts, gas ranges come with fewer parts. This reduces the chances of encountering malfunctions.
Also, gas stoves are easier to clean and maintain. They also generate heat faster and distribute the batter evenly. This is one of the reasons chefs prefer gas ranges over electric stoves.
Gas Stoves: The Cons
For the cons, gas stoves are more expensive than electric stoves. This may surprise you considering that they use fewer parts. But because they are for the long haul, durability always comes with a price.
Also, you may need to spend some more on installing a gas line leading to your kitchen. Learn more about gas line installation here.
Furthermore, you still need to buy gas.
Electric Stoves: The Pros
Shifting over to the electric stoves, they also distribute heat evenly. This makes them an excellent choice if you love baking. They can also be easier to operate compared to gas stoves.
This makes them an easy favorite among newbies in the kitchen.
Like gas stoves, most of the latest electric stoves are easy to clean. This is because they don’t come with any coil burners.
They also feature smooth tops that you can wipe without much hassle. And yes, they are cheaper compared to gas ranges in terms of upfront costs.
Electric Stoves: The Cons
For the cons, they take a much longer time cooking food. If you spill some sugar on the glass top, you will have a hard time taking it off once the sugar heats. Though you can easily wipe the smooth tops, you can soil them quickly.
Another huge downside of using electric ranges is when power outages happen. Since they run on electricity, you will not be able to use them when the power goes down.
Even if you have a fairly-sized generator, it may not be able to accommodate the electrical draw your stove requires.
Gas Dryers: The Pros
As for gas dryers, you can save more money in the long run. Yes, they are pricier than electric dryers when it comes to upfront costs, but you can enjoy long-term savings in your utility bills.
Though they use less energy, they can dry up your clothes faster. Take note that gas stoves still require the use of electricity. Nevertheless, they only consume minimally, making them a more energy-efficient choice.
Gas Dryers: The Cons
The biggest downside of gas dryers is the upfront cost. Generally, they cost around $100 more compared to electric dryers. Also, they come with a different heating system.
This means you cannot convert them into an electric dryer if you wanted to.
Electric Dryers: The Pros
As for the electric dryers, they will cost you less in terms of upfront expenses. However, be mindful of the type of electric dryer that you purchase. Some require a vent going to the outside while others do not.
Hence, your choice will depend heavily on the type of laundry room that you have.
Electric Dryers: The Cons
Much like the electric stoves, you cannot use your electric dryers during a power outage. Also, they heat up much slower than their gas-powered counterparts. This means electric dryers will consume more time in drying your clothes.
Gas Grills: The Pros
Lastly, let’s take a look at the grills. Gas grills are usually bigger than electric grills. This means you can cook more food at the same time.
It also helps create that campfire flavor to your food, which the gas grills cannot do.
Also, they are easy to use. If you know how to operate a stove, then you shouldn’t have any problems firing up your gas grill. Generally, gas grills come with a dial for turning on and off.
Gas Grill: The Cons
As for the cons, gas grills don’t use pellets or charcoals. This means you need to buy gas to fire them up. Some people use propane for their gas grills. But if you have a gas line to your grill, then you don’t need to buy propane tanks.
If you are a fan of that char taste in your food, don’t expect the gas grill to give you that.
Electric Grills: The Pros
As for the electric grills, yes, they are smaller than gas grills. But what they lack in size, they make up for their mobility. You can easily move them around the yard so long as there’s an electric outlet nearby.
Furthermore, electric grills tend to maintain temperatures more efficiently. This gives you more control over the consistency of cooking that you want to achieve.
Electric Grills: The Cons
As for the cons, you need to have electricity to use electric grills. Also, don’t expect to get that authentic barbecue taste.
Gas Appliances vs Electric Appliances: The Verdict
The answer depends on your preferences. If you want something that doesn’t cost a fortune in terms of upfront expenses, then electric appliances are the way to go. But if you want long-term savings, gas appliances will give you that.
When it comes to safety, both have a few safety hazards. For gas appliances, make sure your house comes with proper ventilation. For electrical items, make sure your wiring systems are in good condition.
Invest in the Best Home Appliances
Whether you choose gas appliances over electric-ones or vice-versa, what matters is weighing the pros and cons before deciding. The same thing applies when buying other essential home items.
Check out our other blog posts for more buying guides. We compare products and provide suggestions on the best home appliances to invest in.
