Gas vs. Induction: Which Cooktop is Best for Your Kitchen Renovation?

Aside from gorgeous countertops, decorative backsplashes, custom cabinetry and upgraded hardware, the true heroes of a kitchen renovation are the pieces that help the space function smoothly daily. Whether it’s a perfectly laid-out pantry, a convenient beverage bar, or a set of innovative appliances, incorporating high-performance elements is the key to creating a space that truly fits your needs.

When designing a kitchen, a high-performing cooktop or range is absolutely essential—but home chefs are often very divided when it comes to choosing between a gas or induction model. Both have pros and cons that are worth exploring before making the investment in such an integral kitchen appliance.

Gaining Ground: The Induction Cooktop

For years, range options were limited to gas or electric, but recently a third option is becoming more and more popular—the induction cooktop. More energy-efficient, induction cooktops consist of a glass surface with heating coils that use electromagnetic energy activated by the iron in your pots and pans. As a pan makes contact with the surface, the iron particles excite, generating heat. This method differs from traditional gas or electric models because there is no heat transfer from the burners to the pan—which means that the cooktop itself is always cool to the touch, and you never have to wait for the burner to heat up before you begin cooking. Some benefits of this latest method in cooking technology include:

• Precise Heating. Induction cooktops heat—and cool—much faster and more precisely than alternate methods, which means home chefs can enjoy a more even heat in the pan and a reduced risk of overcooking.
• Safety. Because induction cooktops don’t have exposed heating elements, the risk of burns and fire hazards is significantly lower. This is often a major benefit for families with young children. In addition, the air quality is better when using the induction method due to the lack of gas fumes.
• Energy Efficiency. Thanks to the elimination of heat transfer between the burner and pan, induction cooktops won’t give off excess heat in the kitchen—so no need to crank up the AC as you make dinner on a hot summer day.
• Ease. An induction cooktop’s glass surface is so easy to clean because it stays cool during the cooking process—so no burned-on spills to scrub.
• Discrete. Another benefit of induction cooktops is that they can be hidden beneath countertop surfaces so that they are hidden when not in use. With an under-counter induction cooktop, there’s no need to disrupt the clean lines of a gorgeous quartz counter surface with an appliance. For homeowners who enjoy a streamlined, contemporary design aesthetic, this is the ideal kitchen appliance solution.  

While there are so many benefits to switching to an induction cooktop, there are a few drawbacks worth considering as well:

• Price. Compared to gas or electric options, induction cooktops are expensive, with prices starting around $1,000, more if you choose to hide the appliance beneath the counter. It’s worth noting, however, that because induction uses less energy overall, you can expect to save money down the road.
• New Cookware. For the best results, you’ll likely need to replace your cookware to ensure an even heat. Stainless steel works well, but check for an “induction safe” indication before you buy.
• Maintenance. Unless they’re hidden beneath a countertop, induction cooktops are glass and therefore have the potential to scratch. Best practice suggests choosing pots and pans with smooth bottoms, refraining from sliding your cookware across the surface, and staying away from abrasive cleaners.
• A Learning Curve. A product like this that offers a precise and even heat requires very specific pan placement, which can be tricky to get the hang of at first. If the pan isn’t perfectly centered or sitting evenly on the cooktop’s surface, the system can turn off before cooking is complete. In addition, the quick heat means that food can overheat faster than expected. For you home chefs who are accustomed to cooking over a gas flame, we recommend watching a few tutorials to learn best practices.

Tried and True: Cooking with Gas

Gas cooktops, the preferred method for amateur and professional chefs alike, have a reputation for a superior cooking experience. Fast heat, easy-to-adjust temperature control, and an extremely durable surface make gas worth the investment for many homeowners, but the list of pros doesn’t stop there:

• Versatility. A gas cooktop has a lot of range (no pun intended) when it comes to preparing favorite meals. From searing and simmering to boiling and grilling, gas does it all consistently well. Gas cooktops can handle a variety of cookware as well, so whether you prefer stainless steel, nonstick, or cast iron, you can expect a great culinary experience.
• Less Expensive Overall. Gas is traditionally less expensive to operate than electric, and compared to an induction cooktop, the unit itself may have a smaller price tag upfront. That said, many luxury gas cooktop brands rival or exceed the cost of induction cooktops, so depending on your preferences, this may or may not be the case.  
• Easy-to-Control Temperature. Gas cooktops are famous for having great temperature control and relatively fast heat, making it easy to monitor and adjust dishes as you make them.
• Available in a Power Outage. Any homeowner who has lived through an extended power outage has come to appreciate their gas cooktop. Even when the electric igniter doesn’t function, a gas cooktop may be lit manually with a match or butane lighter, making it possible to prepare hot food during an extended power disruption. Of course, if you’d like to avoid extended power disruptions, be sure to ask us about installing a whole home generator. 😉 

However, for all of the benefits gas has to offer, there are a few drawbacks that may cause homeowners to consider other options:

• Safety. One of the biggest concerns with a gas cooktop is the potential for carbon monoxide buildup if your space isn’t properly ventilated. Grease buildup, if not properly cleaned, is also a hazard.
• Cleaning Challenges. With so many nooks and crannies around the burners, cleaning a gas cooktop is a time-consuming challenge that frustrates many home chefs who would rather spend their time cooking. In addition, special cleaning products are a must to ensure the cooktop remains in good working order in the long term.
• Troubleshooting Concerns. Gas is great—until it doesn’t work properly. Common issues include the igniter not functioning without a bit of finesse.

No matter which cooking surface best fits your family’s needs, Flansburg’s team of designers can help you find the right appliance to incorporate into your kitchen renovation. Ready to create the ultimate space for cooking memorable family meals? Schedule a consultation today to start planning!