Get Cookin’ with the Best Stove for Your Home

When you picture an electric stove with its coil top burners and windowless oven, one word probably comes to mind — old. The technology and design are just that, ancient. Did you know the first Canadian patent for the electric stove was filed in 1892? Neither did I, but that explains the look and appeal of the classic stove. Most commonly found in older homes and apartments, there are 2 kinds of electric stovetops. The older and becoming less common coil top, and the more modern glass top. While the appeal for electric stoves does still exist, for anyone who considers themselves a chef or foodie, an electric stove is not their first choice.

Pros: The biggest pro when it comes to electric stoves is that there is no flame, making them much safer when compared to a gas stove. They’re also easier to install and can be placed anywhere as there is no need for a gas line (which can be expensive to install) or a hood. Glass top styles are more energy efficient than the coil option, but have a higher cost up-front. While you may see a lower utility bill, this price difference really depends on how much you spend on the purchase price and how often you cook at home.

Cons: Typically, natural gas is more economical than electricity, especially in Ontario, with the cost of hydro being very expensive and continuing to rise. Electrical stoves also take longer (a lot longer), to heat up and cool down, which makes it difficult to control the heat of the burner and even more difficult to control the outcome of your dinner. When it comes to cleaning, coil tops are more difficult than glass, but that does not mean glass tops are the better choice. Although sleek and stylish, there are some concerns when it comes to glass stovetops. Be careful when cleaning and cooking, as these stove tops may scratch and are difficult and costly to replace. Do not use cast iron, ceramic and stoneware with rough edges as it could damage and scratch the surface. 

When it comes to cost, initially an electric stove is cheaper and easier to install. If you already have a gas line installed, consider the price difference of a gas stove, as gas would be cheaper over time.

Cost: $500-$3000 (based on department store prices across Canada).

The gas stove predates the electric stove by some time, being invented in the early 1800s, however, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that it became common in North American homes. Traditionally gas stoves are the chefs’ first choice when it comes to cooking. This could be due to Alexis Soyer, an early “celebrity chef” who in 1841 converted his kitchen to use gas, as it was cheaper and could be turned off when the stove was not being used. Whether it was the price or its celebrity endorsement, gas stoves have been praised for their ability to evenly cook food and heat up quickly, making them a favourite among cooking enthusiasts with no competition until recently.

Pros: The biggest allure of a gas stove is its ability to heat quickly and evenly, an essential if you do a lot of cooking. The second you turn on your stove, you can visually see the flame. There’s no standing around waiting for it to heat up or wonder if it’s working. Because of this open flame, the heat is easy to control, you’re able to get the element very hot and then turn it off right after. The versatility of the open flame allows chefs to flambé, a technique that is impossible with a coil top or glass top stove. With its versatility and performance, the gas stove is always the first choice for professional and at-home chefs. Another advantage of gas is the cost of operating. If your home is already hooked up to natural gas, there are no installation or set up costs. Your energy and operating costs will also be lower. Another benefit of gas over electric is that you’ll still be able to cook should your power go out.

Gaining popularity recently is the induction stove top. Similar to an electric glass stove top, the induction stove top uses electromagnetic induction instead of radiant heat used in traditional coil stovetops. People are moving towards this as it has the safety and health benefits of an electric stove, but still gives many of the same great cooking benefits chefs and foodies alike value in gas stoves.

Pros: Much like a gas stove, induction stovetops heat up fast and have the same temperature adjusting and accuracy abilities as gas stoves. Home cooks will also love the fact that there is no heat loss as induction transfers heat directly through its electromagnetic field. This means your pans will absorb all the energy directly and stay hot. There is no transfer of heat or open flames, making induction stovetops much safer, especially if you have young children or cats who like to jump up on countertops. Because there is no open flame or gas, there’s no need to worry about the safety issues associated with gas stoves.

Whether you’re an aspiring chef or are just looking to reheat your meals, whatever stove you choose, make sure you consider your options. If you’re looking for an appliance store near you, check our appliance retailers category to find stores in your area. If you’re still in the planning phase, take a look at our kitchens Pinterest board for more inspiration and information. Happy cooking!