Gas Vs Electric Range: Which One is Better for Commercial Kitchens?

If you are from the foodservice industry and looking to invest in commercial kitchen equipment, you have likely been a part of the gas versus electric range debate. While many believe gas-operated equipment is the winner, electric equipment has some die-hard adherents too. Since this would be one of the largest investments you would be making for your business, you must do your research beforehand. To start with, let's understand the differences between gas and electric ranges and then decide which one would be the best choice for your business.

Key Difference Between Gas and Electric Range

The major difference between a gas range and an electric range lies in how they are powered. Electric ranges are powered through a special electrical outlet with a high energy supply. Whereas gas ranges are connected to a natural gas line or propane hookup. Gas ranges are generally more expensive than their electric counterparts. However, the operational cost for gas ranges is way less than electric ranges. In most cases, operating costs are often a major deciding factor for many. However, it’s difficult to make blanket statements here because utility rates change from state to state. But for most states, natural gas costs less than electricity, which is why gas ranges typically cost 10 to 30 percent less to operate on an ongoing basis.

Other Factors You Should Be Considering

Now that you know how these two commercial appliances differ, let's look at the reasons why business owners invest in either of them.

Commercial Gas Ranges:

• Don't have the right electrical outlet.
  Even though electric ranges are comparatively less expensive than gas ranges, switching can be pricey if your facility does not have special electrical outlets that are required. Hiring an electrician to install one could add significantly to your costs, which is why most business owners prefer gas ranges.
• Gas ranges offer more temperature control.
  Professional chefs love cooking over an open flame because it lets you cook food quickly and evenly, which is often challenging for most electric models. Furthermore, a gas range lets you quickly control the stovetop temperature simply by adjusting the flame. On the other hand, it can take comparatively longer to heat up or cool down the coils of an electric range.
• Relatively easy to clean.
  It is easier to clean commercial gas ranges because of their removable cooking grates and ceramic caps. Grates can be wiped down, and gas burners with ceramic caps help keep spills out of the burner. However, since most electric ranges have glass or ceramic stovetops, it can be trickier to clean them.
• Expanded Cooking Techniques
  With gas ranges, you have the liberty to cut out the cookware and char or grill food directly on the stovetop. Similarly, with an open flame, you can also reach up the side of sculpted pans like woks or skillets for techniques that require you to move food around the sides of the pan.

Commercial Electric Ranges:

• Don't have gas hookups.
  If your facility does not have any gas hookups, installing a new gas line can be expensive. You might need to pay a professional to install one. In this case, an electric range would be a more economical option.
• Provide steady oven temperatures and smooth stovetop options.
  If you would be using your range for baking purposes, you would need well-regulated temperatures. Electric ovens tend to heat and cool more slowly than their gas counterparts, making them an ideal choice for bakers.
• Safety is a concern.
  As compared to gas ranges, electric ranges are generally safer. With gas ranges, there is always a risk of a gas leakage and exposure to carbon monoxide, a potentially deadly gas, if the kitchen is not adequately ventilated. But with electric ranges, you might not have to worry about these potential hazards.
• Easily Portable
  Although it is not very likely that you would be moving your range too often, yet if there need be, electric models would be easier to move. Unlike gas ranges, there is no natural gas line attached to the electric equipment, and all they require is a power socket nearby, which means moving electric appliances is less of a hassle.
• Provides Dry Oven Heat
  Electric appliances are a better choice for rustic bread to roasted chicken or vegetables as they provide comparatively drier heat than gas appliances. This allows you to create nicely browned results in a variety of dishes.
• Stovetop Space and Versatility
  Most electric ranges offer multi-ring elements that can benefit people who tend to have multiple dishes with different-sized cookware.

Conclusion

It shouldn't come as a surprise that it really depends on your individual needs when it comes to determining the right range for your facility. From your location to your business type, several factors influence the choice between a gas and electric range. But generally speaking, professional chefs prefer gas ranges for better cooktop control, durability, and lower operational cost. However, if you are looking for more cooking options, a safe user experience, and aesthetic looks, electric ranges would be the best pick for your facility.

Looking To Buy Commercial Kitchen Equipment?

Whether you love to bake, broil or roast, check out our extensive range of commercial gas and electric ranges for the best prices, quick installation, and delivery service all across the US. In case you are still not sure which range you should buy for your facility or have any other questions, feel free to contact one of our experts at ProServices Supply.