Commercial Oven Showdown: Gas vs. Electric – Which One Suits Your Kitchen?

From Michelin-star restaurants to catering companies handling wide-spread functions to local cafes and bistros, your commercial oven is one of your most important choices.

Whether setting up a new space or replacing an old unit, choosing between a commercial gas oven and an electric commercial oven can significantly impact your kitchen’s efficiency and cooking results. 

So, which is right for you?

In this article, we'll explore each option's key differences, benefits, and downsides to help you decide which is the best professional oven for your kitchen.

What Makes Commercial Gas Ovens a Popular Choice?

Commercial gas ovens have long been a favourite in professional kitchens. But why do so many chefs and kitchen managers prefer them?

  • Quick Heat-Up: One of the biggest advantages of gas ovens is how fast they heat up, allowing teams to start cooking almost immediately (a vital factor in a busy kitchen where every minute counts).
  • Temperature Control: Gas ovens allow for precise temperature adjustments. When working with large-scale recipes that require exact heat settings, such as roasting or baking, the ability to tweak the temperature quickly can make a big difference in the final dish.
  • Moist Heat: When gas burns, it produces water vapour, which helps maintain moisture in the oven. A moist environment is perfect for roasting meats, baking bread, and other tasks to avoid drying out your food.
  • Potential Cost Savings: Gas can be cheaper than electricity, depending on location. If your area has lower gas prices, a commercial gas oven might be more economical to operate in the long run.
  • Operates During Power Outages: If your kitchen loses power, a gas oven can still function, giving you an edge in emergencies.

What are the Drawbacks of Commercial Gas Ovens?

Commercial kitchens have utilised gas ovens for countless years. In that time, however, many chefs will have realised they also come with some downsides:

  • Energy Consumption: Gas ovens typically consume more energy to reach and maintain high temperatures, leading to higher utility bills, especially if gas prices in your area are steep.
  • Installation Requirements: Installing a new gas oven can be more complicated and expensive. Proper gas lines and ventilation might increase your upfront costs.
  • Uneven Heating: Some gas ovens, particularly older models, can have hot spots or uneven heat distribution, leading to inconsistent cooking results.
  • Environmental Concerns: Gas ovens tend to produce more greenhouse gases than electric ones, making them a less eco-friendly option. If you’re trying to reduce your kitchen’s carbon footprint, this is something to think about.

Why Consider a Commercial Electric Oven?

Electric commercial ovens have become increasingly popular and for good reasons. But what makes them a strong contender?

Here are some advantages of installing a commercial electric oven within your kitchen setting:

  • Even Heat Distribution: Electric ovens are known for providing consistent heat throughout the wider appliance, which is particularly important for baking. A uniform temperature ensures you can cook your food evenly every time, reducing the chances of hotspots.
  • Energy Efficiency: According to the Australian Government’s Energy Rating initiative, modern electric ovens are generally more energy-efficient than gas ovens. They use less energy, which can translate into lower operating costs, especially in regions where electricity is cheaper than gas.
  • Advanced Features: Many electric ovens offer features like convection cooking, self-cleaning modes, and digital controls. These extras can make cooking smoother and more efficient.
  • Easier Installation: Setting up an electric oven is often simpler and less costly than installing a gas oven. All you need is a suitable electrical connection, making it a more straightforward choice for many kitchens.

What are the Downsides of Commercial Electric Ovens?

Despite their many advantages, electric ovens aren’t without their disadvantages. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

  • Slower to Heat: Electric ovens usually take longer to reach the desired temperature. Any delay could be a disadvantage in a high-pressure kitchen, where many customers are waiting for their meals.
  • Higher Electricity Costs: If electricity is expensive in your area, running an electric oven could cost more than a gas oven, impacting your bottom line.
  • Dependent on Power Supply: Electric ovens are completely reliant on electricity. In the event of a power outage, your kitchen could be out of commission (unless you have a backup generator, which would again come at an additional cost).
  • Dry Cooking Environment: Electric ovens provide dry heat, which might only be ideal for some types of cooking. For example, roasting meats can be tricky since they dry out faster than in a gas oven.

Which Is More Energy Efficient and Better for Cooking?

Now that we’ve looked at the pros and cons of both options, which one is truly better for your kitchen?

Energy Efficiency

Electric Ovens:

Electric ovens generally outshine gas ovens in energy efficiency. They convert electricity directly into heat with minimal energy loss, making them more efficient, especially with modern insulation and design. 

Plus, electric ovens are more eco-friendly if your kitchen uses renewable energy.

Gas Ovens:

While gas ovens may consume more energy, they can be cost-effective in areas where gas is cheaper than electricity. Just remember that they lose more heat and aren’t as energy-efficient as their electric counterparts.

Cooking Performance

Electric Ovens:

Electric ovens provide consistent, even heat, making them perfect for baking and dishes requiring precise temperature control. However, their dry heat may only be ideal for some cooking, especially when moisture retention is key.

Gas Ovens:

Gas ovens excel in quick heat-up times and offer superior control over cooking temperatures. The moist heat they produce is excellent for roasting and other moisture-sensitive tasks, but they can sometimes suffer from uneven heat distribution.

The Best Professional Oven: Final Verdict

Electric ovens are the go-to for energy efficiency and even cooking, particularly in baking, while gas ovens are preferred for their speed, temperature control, and moist heat, which might be better suited for commercial kitchens. 

Your choice should reflect the specific needs of your kitchen, balancing energy use and desired cooking outcomes.

For a wide selection of commercial ovens for sale, review our selection available at Flexikitch’s today.