The Pros and Cons of Electric Ovens
Electric ovens are a great addition to any kitchen and have many advantages over traditional gas or wood-burning ovens, such as better temperature control and even cooking. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of electric ovens to help you decide whether one is right for your kitchen.
Pros
- Improved temperature control. Electric ovens typically have more precise temperature controls than other types of ovens, making it easier to achieve consistent cooking results. They are now more energy-efficient than ever before, and they provide a level of temperature control that gas ovens simply can not match. This precise temperature control is critical when baking.
- Self-cleaning properties. Self-cleaning features are available on many modern electric ovens, which can save you time and effort when cleaning your oven. There’s no need to scrub or scrape cooked-on food away because the oven will do it for you.
- Cooking that is more even. Electric ovens heat evenly from all sides, so your food is less likely to be overcooked on the outside while still raw in the center. Electric ovens employ heating elements that evenly warm the air within the oven, resulting in more consistent cooking.
- There is no need for additional ventilation. Electric ovens do not emit any harmful gases or fumes, so there is no need to vent them to the outside. However, there is no risk of emissions with an electric oven, so you can be confident that your kitchen is safe and healthy.
- Reduced fire risk. Because electric ovens do not produce open flames, the risk of an accidental fire is reduced. Furthermore, electric ovens are less likely to cause burns because they are cooler to the touch on the outside.
Cons
- Increased energy costs. Because electric ovens use more energy than other types of ovens, your utility bills may be slightly higher. Because electricity is significantly more expensive than natural gas in most areas, using an electric oven can end up costing significantly more money.
- Specialized wiring. Electric ovens require a dedicated circuit with specialized wiring, which can raise the overall installation cost. This can make installation more difficult and expensive, especially if you’re retrofitting an existing kitchen.
- Limited size options. Electric ovens are typically smaller than other types of ovens, so if you have a large family or frequently entertain, you may need to look elsewhere. This can be a major issue for families who need a large oven to meet their cooking needs.
- Dedicated circuit. This means that the oven’s electricity is not shared with other appliances. If your home isn’t already wired for it, this can be an expensive upgrade.
Overall, electric ovens have many advantages over other types of ovens. However, there are some potential disadvantages that you should be aware of before making a purchase. To decide whether an electric oven is right for your kitchen, carefully weigh the pros and cons.