Examining the Differences Between Cooking With Electric, Induction, and Gas Ranges

When it’s time to think about getting a new cooking appliance ,you really need to evaluate the differences between cooking with electric, induction, and gas ranges. Some people are set in their ways of what oven is best for them. But to make the best choice for yourself, you need to learn about all of these types of ranges.

Ways of Heating

This is the most obvious difference between cooking with an electric, induction, or gas range. Because they all use different methods of heating, you will find that cooking on each range will be a little different.

For example, when you cook with induction, you are not only relying on electricity but also magnetic fields. This means that for induction cooking, metal coil exists below the glass surface. This coil produces a constantly changing magnetic field all around it when the power is turned on. Then when you set the correct cookware on it, the heat penetrates the pot and cooks food with the actual pot itself. You are not longer simply heating it from the bottom, but the entire pot becomes the cooking vessel.

So when you cook with induction, you are going to have a cool surface cooktop, which is different from gas and electric. But you are also going to have the fastest time for heating up your food.

Electric ranges work with a coil that is heated with electricity, which then heats up your food from the bottom. You can get an electric range with either a glass top surface or the traditional coil, but they both work with electric in order to produce heat.

Gas stoves have an electronic ignition system, which is why you hear clicking when you turn on your burner. This serves as the pilot light, which then gets ignited in order to produce the flame. It’s important to note that with an electric stove, you don’t have as much direct control over the temperature. A gas range allows you greater control over the temperature you are using, and provides a very even cooking temperature.

What You Can Cook With

Not every cooktop can take the same type of cookware. For example, if you have an induction stove, you need to be sure to have pots and pans that are magnetic. If you aren’t sure if your current cookware fits the bill, simply hold a magnet to it to see if it sticks.

As a rule of thumb, cast iron, stainless steel, and magnetic stainless steel all work. Some ceramic-clad and enameled pots may work, but you should test them out first. Generally, aluminum, glass, and copper pans are not compatible with an induction cooktop.

With an electric stove, you can generally use most pots and pans. However, if your electric stove has a glass top, you want to be sure to read your manufacturer’s suggestions for cookware. For example, many will tell you to stay away from using cast iron pans, because they can scratch the glass surface. Additionally, some will tell you to also use pots and pans that have a flat bottom for the best cooking experience.

Lastly, gas ranges can use any kinds of pots and pans, but the best type of cookware to use on gas ranges is copper. That is because copper is a great heat conductor and will allow you to have the most control over the heat and distribute heat evenly. Cast iron pans also shine on this type of stove; because of their weight, they can also do a great job of retaining heat and allow for even cooking.

Everyone has a specific type of range to which they’re attracted. Whether you want a stove that can allow you to use all sorts of pots and pans, the fastest heat time, or the most consistent heating, you’ll be sure to find the perfect range for you. To learn more about how to take care of your range, please contact us.