If you’re thinking about updating your kitchen cooktop, you’re probably wondering which type is right for you–induction cooktop vs gas cooktop.
We’re fans of both induction and gas, so we thought we might be able to provide an overview of each so you can compare your options and make the best decision for your kitchen.
In this article, we’re taking a closer look and comparing the benefits of an induction cooktop vs gas cooktop.
Induction Cooktop vs Gas Cooktop
When it comes to cooking, you may be comfortable using a gas or electric stove. After all, these have been around for years – and have been easily accessible, as well. But, now, increasing in popularity, is the induction cooktop. Although it has been around for nearly a century, it is just now making its way into kitchens everywhere.
Before you sit there scratching your head at which cooktop you should be cooking your next meal on, let’s take a look at two of the most prized cooktops.
Related: What is An Induction Cooktop?
Gas Cooktops
For many people, gas cooktops have been the preferred method of cooking for a long time. And, definitely preferred over electric cooktops.
Using propane or natural gas, cooktops allow you to turn the heat on and off with the click of a button. Unlike electric cooktops that require the burner grill to heat up, the heat source is the flame itself. When you turn it on, it heats up. When you turn it off, it does not. Although the surface can remain hot, it is not enough to continue cooking your food.
The downfall to gas cooktops is the danger that the gas poses. As with anything that involves gas, having it turned on to enter your home poses a potential safety risk should something go wrong, such as a leak.
If you’re interested in updating your current cooktop with a 30-inch gas cooktop, the HRT3003U is the perfect fit. If you’re looking for something that will allow you to cook several dishes at once, the HRT4806U offers a 48 inch cooktop complete with 6 burners and a griddle.
Induction Cooktops
Induction cooktops are quite different from gas cooktops – and electric, for that matter.
Related: Induction Cooktops vs Electric
The method in which the heat is like no other. In fact, induction cooking is done using electromagnetism.
Underneath the cooktop, you will find a metal coil. When turned on, this coil creates a magnetic field underneath the surface that begins to react with the pan upon the cooktop, creating a current. This current that the magnetic forces join to make then causes the pan to heat and the food inside to begin cooking. It may sound like a long process, but the occurrence is rather quick.
Perhaps one of the best features of induction cooking is the fact that the cooktop never gets hot. Because there is no transfer of heat, such as in electric and gas cooktops, the burner – and entire surface – of the induction cooktop remain cool to the touch.
Induction cooktops are available in several sizes to accommodate your needs. For smaller kitchens, you may be interested in the 4 burner induction cooktop. For larger kitchens, you may find this 36 inch induction cooktop with 5 burner elements fits your needs better.
Related: 5 Benefits of Induction Cooking
Induction vs Gas Cooking Pros and Cons
So, what are the pros and cons of induction cooktop vs gas?
The cooktop that you favor is going to depend highly on your cooking style and preference. Many choose to be pro-gas because, well, that is what they know. Induction cooktops are fairly new to the U.S. market, but if you speak to those in Europe who have been utilizing them for quite some time, they may have a favorable opinion for the induction cooking method.
Things to consider when deciding what is best for you would be:
- The safety features you are concerned about. For instance, if you have young children in the home, the chance of burns and leaky gas may scoot you away from gas cooktops.
- Cost is a huge factor. Gas cooktops are, of course, going to be much more affordable. In fact, there are some very basic models that can be found just about anywhere. But, if you are more concerned about quality, design style, and method, then perhaps you should consider the induction cooktop.
As evidenced above, there are benefits to both types of cooktops. It really boils down to your personal preference.
The Benefits of a Gas Cooktop
When it comes to choosing a gas cooktop, here are some benefits you may enjoy:
- The speed of heating. As discussed above, when you turn the fire on, you have heat. There is nothing that needs to heat up to get your food cooking.
- Of course, this also means you have a better chance of getting food cooked to the right temperature – at least when compared to electric cooktops.
- Because gas stoves don’t require electricity, they are available to use during power outages.
The Benefits of an Induction Cooktop
There are a few great benefits to choose a gas range, but there are also a few benefits an induction cooktop offers as well.
- Because you don’t have to worry about anythingbut your food heating up when it comes to induction cooking, it is the fastest method of cooking on the market.
- Induction cooktops are safe because they do not get hot. Little hands and paws won’t be in danger – and neither will you.
- Because the surface never gets hot, it is a breeze to clean. There is no chance for stuck on food to scrape off. Simply wipe it down with a soft cloth.
- The reduction in heat flow while using the cooktop means that your kitchen remains cool. In turn, it reduces the need for your cooling system to work overtime – cutting your overall energy costs.
Conclusion
Now that you know the differences and benefits relating to the induction cooktop vs gas comparison, which will you choose?
Take some time to consider your habits, your style, your kitchen design, and so forth. Then, take a look at was is available on the market. Find the right cooktop to meet your culinary needs – and the style of your kitchen.
Cooking can be fun, rewarding, and beneficial to your health and the health of your family. Will you choose to stick to the gas cooktop that you have always known? Or, will you become a fan of induction cooking and discover all the benefits that come with it?
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