Gas or electricity?

It is it only a matter of saving?

The use of induction hobs and glass ceramics is gaining terrain on the classical gas cooking. Aesthetics, safety and elimination of direct flames are principles that make people to gravitate towards an electrical solution. But it is it only a matter of saving? In this article I review the pros and cons of induction cookers, ceramic hobs and gas hobs in Spain, and put on the table the most interesting option, both for convenience and for the pocket.

The initial investment. The appliances

Anyone thinking about reforming the kitchen may have considered to remove the traditional gas stove and to opt for an electric cooker with the idea of stopping paying for an additional source of energy such as piped gas (or butane). But, is it a good choice?

To start it is necessary to take into account the cost of the appliances; ie the initial investment which must be assumed.

Today, you can find a gas hobs from 75 euros, while electric vary in price depending on whether they are induction or ordinary ceramic hobs. Both types far outweigh the cost of gas version. To get an idea, an economic model offered by major retailers starts from around 134 euros if it is an electric ceramic hob (with four burners) and 219 euros in the case of induction (three burners).

But not only should we be concerned about the cost of the hob itself. In the case of opting for the induction type, the kitchenware must be added and that alone could be substantial depending on the number of pots and pans in the household.

The best option

However the installation of induction cookers has grown considerably despite its price. This is because, among its virtues stand out as being the fastest to heat food without emitting waste heat. Therefore, less power is required, less dedication time in the kitchen and also it is quite safe in case someone touches the ring burners on an oversight. Not only that, they have been credited with being easy to clean and maintained, much more than gas.

However, if the doubts are between installing a gas cooker or vitro, other aspects should also be taken into account. Gas is more dangerous, since a flame factor is added into the kitchen. Also, it requires periodic inspection to avoid possible leaks. However, it is also true that it is the option that implicates less energy consumption and cheaper energy as it heats up faster than the hob.

Vital information. The cost of energy.

At the moment, to opt for induction is to go for the most expensive option, but it offers better working conditions on the day to day basis. Apparently the cost is amortized in a few months. But is this a fact or the cost of electricity will play against?

In September 2016, the cost of electricity (consumption) stood at 0.141033 euros / kWh for the regulated price rate, while natural gas is 0.047624 euros / kWh. Both rates require a fixed rate which it is paid whether any power it is consumed or not and it is quite significant the difference in the overall cost of energy consumed specially in the electricity bill.

The butane gas bottle now is sold for 11.27 euros (final price). This, if translated to kWh, would be 0.070880 euros / kWh, with the particularity that there would be not added other fixed costs. That is, it would be the cheapest option at this time.

Ceramic, induction or gas: which one shall we go for?

 After seeing all of the above, it is concluded that there is not a better choice; it depends on the type of consumer. However, to determine which model is cheaper it is advisable to take into consideration the various factors dealt here: the time saved in cleaning, the maintenance factor to the cost of tariffs for electricity and piped gas.