Gas vs electric range cookers – pros and cons for UK businesses
Conclusion: Finding the Best Cooker for Your UK Business
There’s no single winner between gas and electric. It depends on your kitchen setup, chef preferences, and business goals.
Choosing between gas and electric range cookers is a big decision for any UK food business. Whether you run a restaurant, café, or catering operation, the cooker is at the heart of your kitchen. Each option comes with strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on your menu, energy costs, and long-term plans.
At Zenith Commercial Cook UK, we partner with leading manufacturers to supply professional cooking equipment tailored to your business needs. Here’s a complete breakdown of gas vs electric range cookers, designed to help you make the best decision.
What Are the Key Differences Between Gas and Electric Range Cookers?
GAS & ELECTRIC COMMERCIAL COOKING RANGES IMAGE COMPARISON
Gas and electric cookers both serve the same purpose, but they function very differently.
How gas range cookers work in commercial kitchens
Gas models use an open flame to provide instant heat. Chefs can see and control the flame directly, which makes it easier to adjust cooking speed and intensity.
How electric range cookers function in professional settings
Electric cookers use heating elements or induction plates. They heat more evenly and can maintain a steady temperature, making them ideal for consistent cooking.
Comparing installation requirements for gas and electric models
Gas cookers require a mains gas connection, ventilation, and regular safety checks. Electric cookers only need the right electrical capacity, but often require higher amps.
Common energy supply considerations for UK businesses
Your choice may be influenced by what’s available at your site — not every commercial space has a gas supply, while electricity is nearly universal.
Why Do UK Restaurants and Cafés Still Choose Gas Range Cookers?
Despite rising energy costs, gas cookers remain popular in UK kitchens.
Cooking control and responsiveness for chefs
Chefs love the immediate response of a flame. Turning the knob gives instant heat changes, perfect for sautéing or searing.
Flame visibility and heat adjustment benefits
The visible flame helps chefs judge heat levels, something electric plates don’t provide as clearly.
Gas running costs in the UK market
Historically, gas has been cheaper than electricity. Although this gap is narrowing, many kitchens still save money using gas.
Challenges of gas cookers (maintenance, ventilation, safety checks)
Gas requires regular maintenance and strict safety checks. Ventilation is critical, which can increase installation costs.
Are Electric Range Cookers More Efficient for UK Commercial Kitchens?
Electric models are gaining ground, especially with sustainability goals.
Heat distribution and consistency of electric cookers
Electric cookers distribute heat evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots and inconsistent cooking.
Energy efficiency and sustainability in UK businesses
Induction models, in particular, use less energy and reduce wasted heat in the kitchen. This supports energy-saving initiatives.
Costs of electricity vs gas in the UK
Electricity costs have been higher than gas, but government incentives and energy efficiency may tip the scales for some businesses.
Limitations of electric models in high-volume kitchens
Electric range cookers can be slower to heat up compared to gas, which can frustrate chefs working in fast-paced environments.
Which Range Cooker Is More Cost-Effective Over Time?
The real question is: which one saves you more money long term?
Initial purchase price comparison
Gas and electric cookers are similarly priced upfront, but induction models usually cost more.
Installation costs and requirements
Gas requires certified installation and ventilation, while electric may require electrical upgrades.
Ongoing running costs in the UK
Gas has traditionally been cheaper to run, but electric efficiency is catching up.
Maintenance, servicing, and lifespan considerations
Gas units often require more frequent servicing. Electric units are simpler to maintain but can be costly if major parts fail.
Gas & Electric Range Cookers Brands in the UK Comparison Table
NB. Some of these brands are not in our catalog but our guides is help customers to be well informed
| Brand | Location / Base | Types of Ovens / Ranges Offered (Electric, Gas, etc.) | Notes / Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falcon (Ali Group) | Scotland, UK; manufacturing facility in Stirling. (Ali Group Worldwide) | Electric & Gas ovens / ranges, induction & solid tops, convection / combination ovens. (lockhart.co.uk) | Long history (200+ years), strong in reliability for high use kitchens. Recognised for heavy-duty cook-line equipment. Good support network in UK. |
| Lincat | North Hykeham, Lincolnshire, UK. (Wikipedia) | Commercial electric heaters, gas-heated equipment, full range (electric ovens, gas ovens, etc.) (Wikipedia) | Large range, established brand, often a go-to for commercial kitchens in UK. |
| Parry Catering Equipment | Derbyshire, UK. (parry.co.uk) | They manufacture commercial ovens / cooking ranges, stainless steel fabrication, also gas & electric cooking equipment. (luxia-nce.co.uk) | Known for bespoke options, strong fabrication / custom work. Good for specific sizes or configurations. |
| Blue Seal (Moffat Group) | UK operations (Birmingham etc.), though some components or some products may be globally sourced. (blue-seal.co.uk) | Heavy-duty gas & electric range ovens, convection / combination ovens, modular cook-line appliances. (blue-seal.co.uk) | Good reputation for durability, good after-sales, widely used in busy commercial kitchens. |
| Chandley Ovens | Greater Manchester / Cheshire, UK. (Wikipedia) | Bakery-oriented ovens: deck ovens, conveyor ovens etc. (mainly large-scale bakery/commercial baking). (Wikipedia) | Specialist for bakery ovens; less variety for generic cooking ranges. Strong quality. |
Falcon Lincat
Safety and Compliance – What UK Businesses Must Consider
Commercial kitchens in the UK must follow strict regulations.
Gas cooker compliance with UK gas safety regulations
Any business using gas must meet Gas Safe regulations, including annual inspections.
Electrical safety standards for commercial range cookers
Electric cookers must be installed to meet British electrical standards and tested regularly.
Insurance and health & safety inspections in catering businesses
Insurers often demand proof of compliance. Neglecting safety checks can invalidate cover.
How to Decide Between Gas and Electric Range Cookers for Your Business
The decision isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Factors to consider – kitchen size, menu type, energy costs
Smaller cafés may find electric sufficient, while large restaurants often prefer gas.
Matching equipment to chef preferences and workflow
Chef preference matters. A team used to gas may struggle with electric and vice versa.
Long-term investment vs short-term savings
Consider the full lifespan, from purchase and installation to energy bills and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions on Gas vs Electric Range Cookers in the UK
Which type of range cooker is cheaper to run in the UK?
Generally, gas has been cheaper, but efficient electric models may reduce costs in the long run.
Do professional chefs prefer gas or electric?
Most chefs prefer gas for control, but electric is growing in popularity for sustainability reasons.
Are electric cookers more environmentally friendly?
Yes, especially induction models, as they use less wasted energy and align with UK sustainability goals.
Can I switch from gas to electric in my commercial kitchen?
Yes, but it requires electrical upgrades and planning for new ventilation needs.
