Gas vs Electric Oven: The Smart Choice for Lower Energy Bills in Australia

Choosing between a gas oven and an electric oven is no longer just a question of cooking style—it’s a matter of energy efficiency and cost savings. As energy bills continue to rise in Australia, understanding which appliance is better suited for your kitchen and budget is more important than ever.

This comprehensive guide explores how the electric oven compares with the gas alternative in terms of energy use, running costs, and overall performance. If you're looking to reduce household expenses, this breakdown will help you make the right decision.

Electric Oven: Efficiency, Precision, and Convenience

An electric oven is a top choice in many modern Australian homes. Known for its consistent heating and precision, it is ideal for baking, roasting, and everyday cooking.

Pros of Electric Ovens

• Even and stable cooking temperature

• Fan-forced options offer improved heat distribution

• Easy to install in most households

• Requires no gas line or bottle refills

Cons of Electric Ovens

• Generally slower to heat up compared to gas

• More expensive to operate if not using solar or off-peak electricity

• Useless during power outages

Gas Oven: Instant Heat and Traditional Cooking Power

A gas oven offers fast heating and excellent temperature control, making it the preferred choice for many home chefs. Gas ovens operate on either natural gas or LPG, and they can keep cooking even when the power goes out.

Pros of Gas Ovens

• Fast heat-up time and immediate temperature control

• Often cheaper to run in areas with low gas prices

• Operational during power cuts (if equipped with manual ignition)

• Moist cooking environment preserves texture in certain dishes

Cons of Gas Ovens

• Less consistent heat distribution

• Requires gas line or regular LPG supply

• Higher upfront installation costs

• Needs regular maintenance for safety

Comparing Energy Costs: Gas Oven vs Electric Oven

Feature	Electric Oven	Gas Oven
Running Cost (per hour)	$0.70 – $1.00	$0.30 – $0.60
Installation Cost	Around $500 (incl. wiring if needed)	$600–$800 (incl. gas connection)
Maintenance	Low maintenance	Requires occasional servicing
Temperature Control	Precise and even	Manual and less consistent
Ideal Usage	Baking, roasting, grilling	Fast cooking, high-heat dishes
Energy Source	Electricity	Natural Gas or LPG

Electric ovens may be more expensive to run depending on electricity rates, but for homes with solar panels or low-rate plans, they can be the smarter long-term investment.

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To find out which appliance is more cost-effective in your area, compare local energy rates using PowerMarket. It’s a quick and simple way to determine whether an electric or gas oven will help reduce your energy bills.

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Cooking Performance: Which Oven Works Best in the Kitchen?

The electric oven is known for consistent baking results and ease of use, especially with fan-forced models. Gas ovens, while faster to heat, can cook unevenly without a fan but offer superior moisture retention—ideal for certain types of meals like pizza or roasted meats.

If precision and consistency matter to you, especially for baking, the electric oven is a better fit. If speed and flexibility are more important, the gas oven may be your top choice.

Installation and Maintenance Requirements

Electric ovens are typically easier to install and require less maintenance. If your home is already wired for an oven, installation is straightforward. Gas ovens, however, require certified plumbers for installation and may need regular safety checks.

In rental homes or apartments where installing a gas connection isn’t feasible, electric ovens are often the go-to solution.

Environmental Considerations

Electric ovens are becoming increasingly eco-friendly, especially when paired with renewable energy sources like solar panels. By contrast, gas ovens rely on fossil fuels, which have a larger carbon footprint.

For environmentally conscious households, an electric oven powered by solar or green electricity is the clear winner.

Hybrid Option: Gas and Electric Oven Stove Combos

For those who want the best of both worlds, some models combine a gas cooktop with an electric oven. These hybrid units are increasingly popular among serious home cooks and large families. The gas burners provide quick heating, while the electric oven ensures reliable baking.

Final Verdict: Which Oven Saves More?

Consideration	Choose Electric Oven	Choose Gas Oven
You use solar electricity	Yes	No
You need precise baking	Yes	No
You have access to cheap gas	No	Yes
You want easy installation	Yes	No
You live in a rental apartment	Yes	Unlikely
You cook during outages	No	Yes

For many Australians, especially those with solar panels or access to cheap off-peak electricity, the electric oven presents a compelling case. However, homes with affordable gas access and high usage might still benefit from a gas oven.

To make an informed decision, compare your energy rates today with PowerMarket and see how your choice of oven can impact your monthly bills.

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Not sure which oven is best for your home? Visit PowerMarket now to compare electricity and gas rates in your area. Find out how much you could save on your energy bills by choosing the right appliance for your household.

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Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQS )

1. Is an electric oven cheaper to run than a gas oven?

Not necessarily. An electric oven may cost more to operate unless paired with solar or off-peak electricity.

2. Which heats up faster: gas oven or electric oven?

A gas oven heats up faster than an electric oven due to the instant flame.

3. Can I install an electric oven without professional help?

No, it’s recommended to have a licensed electrician install any electric oven for safety and compliance.

4. Which oven is better for baking?

The electric oven is better for baking due to even heat distribution and precise temperature control.

5. Will a gas oven work if the power goes out?

Yes, most gas ovens with manual ignition will still operate during a power outage.

6. What is the average cost of running an electric oven in Australia?

Running an electric oven typically costs between $0.70 to $1.00 per hour depending on your electricity rates.

7. Are electric ovens more environmentally friendly?

Yes, especially when powered by renewable electricity such as rooftop solar.

8. Can I switch from a gas oven to an electric oven easily?

Yes, but you’ll need an electrician to install the appropriate wiring and disconnect the gas line.

9. What are gas and electric oven stove combos?

These are hybrid appliances that feature a gas cooktop and an electric oven, offering flexible cooking options.

10. How do I know which type of oven is best for my energy bill?

Use PowerMarket to compare local electricity and gas rates to determine which appliance is more cost-effective in your area.