Upgrade Oven/Stove
New energy efficient electric cooking options save 20-30% more energy and provide more control and features than ever before. Switching from a gas oven or stovetop to an efficient electric range has big positive impacts for your health and the planet.
Your Impact
Action Steps & Tips
Introduction
Newer, energy-efficient electric induction and convection cooking options have huge benefits. They save energy and money, cook faster, are safer to use and easier to clean.
Switching from a natural gas powered range to an electric range is much better for your health. When you burn natural gas at home for cooking, it not only creates climate pollution, it also creates air pollution that can cause asthma and other health problems. Burning natural gas creates harmful nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, high levels of benzene and other harmful pollutants. Scientists have found that nearly 13% of all childhood asthma is caused by gas stoves.
If you love cooking on your gas stovetop, you might be surprised at the performance of your new electric range. An electric induction cooktop provides better heat control than a gas range and heats up quicker, boiling water up to 40% faster. Electric cooktops reduce heat in the kitchen and burning hazards by only heating the pot and the food. Top chefs find induction cooktops to be more efficient, precise, safe and flexible than either gas or conventional electric options .
Efficient electric induction and convection ranges:
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Save energy and money. An electric induction stovetop is 3 times more efficient than a gas stovetop!
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Don’t create harmful indoor air pollution
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Reduce climate pollution
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Are high performance, including responsive heat control and advanced features
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Are safer to use and most are ADA compliant
New efficient electric stoves and ovens are far better for your health and the planet!
1When to upgrade
Electric induction stovetops are up to three times more efficient than gas. Electric convection ovens are 10% more efficient than gas ovens. This means efficient electric cooking appliances can provide solid savings on your energy bill.
Since they have a significant upfront cost, the best time to upgrade will depend on the age of your current range, how much you cook and available rebates and credits.
Cost. A new efficient electric induction and convection range starts around $1,000 and can go up to $3,000 or more. On average, they cost from $200-$1,000 more than a comparable gas or radiant electric model today, however, prices are coming down as they are becoming much more popular.
If you have a gas range currently, most electric induction ranges will require installation of a 240 volt outlet (like a dryer outlet). This can add a one time additional cost. Check with local electricians for an estimate. You may also need to purchase new cookware that is compatible with an induction cooktop. See below for more information.
Rebates. There are rebates and credits available for new electric induction ranges depending on where you live. Check the resources below or with your local utility or state energy program for more information on what is available in your area.
If you’re interested but not ready for an upgrade yet, add this action to your list and schedule it out for later!
2Choose a new efficient electric cooking appliance
Stovetop: Go induction. All induction cooktops will have the same benefits of faster heating, safer cooking and responsive controls. A few settings to look for:
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Power levels: look for at least 10 and preferably 15 or more power settings. This makes cooking anything a bit easier.
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Temperature control settings that let you maintain a target temperature like a simmer.
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Simple, easy to use features and WiFi connectivity are also a plus
Oven: Go Convection. Convection ovens use a fan to circulate the hot air around the oven during cooking, distributing the heat evenly, reducing the energy use and shortening cooking times. Convection ovens use about 20% less energy than regular ovens, saving you 20% on your bill. It also saves you time with shorter cooking times. Another good option to look for is a self cleaning oven.
Range vs separate appliances. Choosing a range is not the only option! There are now great stand alone induction cooktops and separate wall ovens. This can provide flexibility in how you use your kitchen space, allowing for different sizes for each appliance and even the convenience of having handy drawers and cabinets under your cooktop. You will also not need to replace both your stove and oven if one breaks. The benefit of a range? It generally costs less to purchase and install. The best option for you will depend on your kitchen set up and your preferences.
Cookware. Induction ranges require cookware that will respond to the magnetic heating element, so you might need to purchase new cookware. You probably have a few pots and pans that will work, but might need to replace a few as well. If a magnet sticks to the bottom of your pot, it will work. Look for labels on new cookware that say "induction ready." Cast iron and most stainless steel will work; clay, glass, copper and all aluminum cookware will not work.
3 Install the new range & recycle your old one
Most retailers will include installation costs for your new electric induction range if you have the proper outlet.
The steel and aluminum in your old oven can be recycled. Check with your retailer to see if they offer a recycling service. Be sure to confirm with the company, your city or your county that the appliances are not disposed of at a landfill. Visit the Recyclenation.com website and search for “large appliances” for a list of local recycling centers that accept appliances.