Electric to Gas Stove: Good Return on Investment?

Keri Harvey asks,

We currently have an old electric stove and we are not sure if we should add a gas line and put in a gas stove. Would there be a good return on investment? Or, are electric stoves now more energy efficient and have more benefits than before?

Our Answer

Converting an electric to gas stove will result in a lower operating cost by about 26%, according to some gas conversion estimates, but like most things, it’s not that simple. When factoring in the cost of a new gas stove appliance, it would take many, many years for any real savings to occur. That said, since the electric stove is old and would need to be replaced soon anyway, now would be a good time to make the switch.
Other benefits would include reduced CO2 emissions and more precise control of your cooking temperature. Plus, there may be rebates available from your local utility company. My suggestion would be to contact the utility company next, and ask both about the rebates, as well as any costs to run the gas line to your home. In my experience, so long as you are installing at least one gas appliance, there would be little to no charge from the utility company for hooking you up — plus now you’ll have another fuel option to consider when it comes time to replace your water heater or furnace too.