As a home appliance expert with years of experience in evaluating and comparing various household items, I can provide a comprehensive analysis of the cost of running gas versus electric cookers.

Firstly, it's important to understand the basic differences between gas and electric cookers. Gas cookers operate on natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is ignited to heat the cooking surface. On the other hand, electric cookers use electricity to heat up the cooking elements.

The cost of running these appliances depends on several factors, including the efficiency of the cooker, the cost of the energy source, and the cooking habits of the user.

Efficiency: Gas cookers are often considered more energy-efficient because they transfer heat directly to the pot or pan, whereas electric cookers can lose some heat in the transfer process. However, modern electric cookers have improved in efficiency, with induction cooktops being particularly efficient.

Cost of Energy: The Energy Saving Trust's figures suggest that both gas and electric ovens use a similar amount of energy units, in the 200s of kWh per year. However, the cost of electricity is significantly higher compared with gas, which makes electric ovens more expensive to run.

Cooking Habits: The way you cook can also affect the cost. For instance, if you often use the oven for baking or roasting, a gas oven might be more economical due to its instant heat and consistent temperature. Electric ovens, especially those with fan-assisted heating, can be more efficient for these tasks.

Maintenance and Lifespan: Gas cookers require less maintenance than electric ones, as they have fewer electronic components. This can lead to lower long-term costs. Additionally, gas cookers tend to have a longer lifespan, which is another factor to consider when calculating the overall cost.

Environmental Impact: While this may not directly affect the cost, it's worth noting that electric cookers, when powered by renewable energy sources, can have a lower carbon footprint than gas cookers.

Local Energy Prices: The cost of running a cooker also depends on local energy prices. In areas where gas is cheaper than electricity, a gas cooker will be more economical. Conversely, in regions with high electricity prices, an electric cooker may be more cost-effective if the electricity is sourced from renewable energy.

Safety and Convenience: While not directly related to cost, safety and convenience are also important considerations. Gas cookers require proper ventilation and can pose a risk if not used correctly. Electric cookers are generally considered safer and easier to clean.

In conclusion, the cheaper option to run between a gas and electric cooker depends on a combination of factors including efficiency, energy costs, cooking habits, maintenance, and local energy prices. While the Energy Saving Trust's data suggests that electric ovens are more expensive to run due to higher electricity prices, this may not be the case in all regions or for all types of cooking. It's essential to consider all these factors and perhaps consult with a local energy expert to determine the most cost-effective option for your specific situation.

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According to figures from the Energy Saving Trust, gas and electric ovens use the same amount of energy units, in the 200s of kWh per year, but the much higher price of electricity compared with gas makes electric ovens far more expensive to run.Jul 2, 2013read more >>