Gas Ovens

When it comes to comparing gas ovens to electric ovens there is no clear ‘best’ option as each has their own advantages. Often people will stick with what they already know. But for those of you who aren’t firmly decided either way, here are some of the advantages of a gas oven.

Gas ovens provide an instant heat that will shorten oven pre-heating times and generally allows for more precise heat adjustment (although a thermostat on an electric model will help with this as well). With fewer gas models than electric on the market today, as well as fewer gas oven brands, you may find it easier to make a final purchasing decision once you have decided to go with gas.

Gas Ovens retain more moisture when cooking. When Gas is burned it releases water in addition to heat which leads to a more humid baking environment. Electric Ovens on the other hand create a much dryer heat. Gas is great for cooking succulent roasts and moist cakes, while Electric is great for a stable heat to bake pizzas and breads. Electric Ovens also tend to have many more cooking functions over gas models.

Gas Oven installations need to be carried out by a licensed professional. If you buy from us check out our Oven Installation Services offered as a part of our Home Services which can include installation, a demo, clean up and we can even take the old Oven away.

There are some things doable to make sure the installation process goes smoothly. Ensure you have accurately measured the dimensions of the space in your kitchen where the Oven will go so the Oven is appropriately sized for the space. Make sure your home has a natural gas line connection for natural gas models, otherwise Ovens with built-in LP Gas or an included conversion kit will be required, like some of these Westinghouse Gas Ovens include.

Also make sure the work area for the installation is completely cleared. Obstacles make it difficult for professionals to safely bring the new Oven inside and take the old Oven away if chosen.

Modern gas ovens come with a variety of safety features such as an automatic safety shutdown function if a flame isn't detected within a certain period. In Australia it is a legal requirement that gas-powered appliances are professionally installed by a licensed gas fitter. To maintain safety, many brands recommend your gas oven be inspected by an authorised service person every few years.

It's important to be mindful to not leave gas cooking unattended for long periods and follow safety procedures if you can smell gas in your home. Thoroughly reading up on the model's user manual prior to purchase will help ensure you're aware of what's required for a safe operation.

In addition to heat and water, burning gas releases some chemicals and particles like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide that may exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma. Use a rangehood in the kitchen if you have a gas stove or cooktop and ensure all rooms in your home with gas appliances are well ventilated.

Gas ovens tend to be more expensive to purchase and install than electric ovens but will make up for it in the long term with cheaper running costs. You can improve the energy efficiency of your gas oven even further by choosing a fan-forced model.

Fan-assisted ovens (also known as convection ovens) include an additional fan and exhaust system inside the oven compartment. As the gas burners inside the oven produce heat, the fan circulates the heat around the oven. This ensures an even spread of heat throughout the entire oven, reducing cooking and pre-heating times.

Fan-forced settings tend to be more energy efficient overall because you are cooking the same meals while running your oven for a shorter amount of time at a reduced cooking temperature. While fan settings are not recommended in all cases (for instance they may prevent breads and cakes from rising properly), using them for the majority of your cooking will save you time in the kitchen and money on your future energy bills.