How Much Does an Electric Oven Cost to Run in the UK?
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and the oven is its beating soul. In the modern UK kitchen, there are two primary choices for powering your oven: electricity or gas.
But have you ever wondered how much it costs to run an electric oven in the UK?
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the cost of running an electric oven, compare it to running a gas oven, delve into the pros and cons of each option, and provide tips on how to save on oven running costs.
Cost of Running an Electric Oven
Electric ovens have gained popularity for their precision and ease of use, but they do come at a cost. To understand how much it costs to run an electric oven in the UK, we need to consider several factors:
Electricity Tariffs: The cost of electricity varies depending on your location and the type of tariff you have.
In the UK, electricity prices are typically measured in pence per kilowatt-hour (kWh). On average, the cost of electricity can range from 14p to 20p per kWh.
- Oven Wattage: The wattage of your electric oven plays a significant role in determining running costs. Ovens can have wattages ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 watts or more. A higher-wattage oven will consume more electricity, leading to higher running costs.
- Usage Patterns: How often you use your oven and for how long also affects running costs. Frequent baking or roasting will naturally result in higher energy consumption.
- Energy Efficiency: The energy efficiency rating of your electric oven matters. Look for ovens with high energy efficiency ratings (A+ or A++) as they consume less electricity.
To calculate the cost of running your electric oven, you can use the following formula:
Cost = Wattage (kW) x Hours of Use x Electricity Price (pence per kWh)
For example, if you have a 2,000-watt oven and you use it for one hour at an electricity price of 16p per kWh:
Cost = 2 kW x 1 hour x 16p = 32p
So, running a 2,000-watt electric oven for an hour would cost you 32 pence.
Cost of Running a Gas Oven
Now, let’s compare this to running a gas oven in the UK. Gas ovens have a different set of factors to consider when determining their running costs:
- Gas Tariffs: Gas prices are also measured in pence per kWh. The average cost of gas in the UK can vary from 3p to 6p per kWh.
- Gas Consumption: Gas ovens consume natural gas or propane, depending on your supply. They are typically rated in British Thermal Units (BTUs) or cubic meters per hour (m³/h). The higher the BTU or m³/h rating, the more gas the oven consumes.
- Usage Patterns: Just like electric ovens, how often and how long you use your gas oven affects running costs.
To calculate the cost of running your gas oven, use this formula:
Cost = Gas Consumption (kWh) x Gas Price (pence per kWh)
Let’s say your gas oven has a consumption rate of 1.5 kWh and the gas price is 4p per kWh:
Cost = 1.5 kWh x 4p = 6p
Running a gas oven with a consumption rate of 1.5 kWh for an hour would cost you 6 pence.
Gas vs. Electric Oven Running Costs
Now that we’ve covered the cost calculations for both electric and gas ovens, let’s compare the two based on running costs:
Electric Oven
Electric ovens are generally more expensive to run compared to gas ovens due to the higher cost of electricity. However, they offer precise temperature control and are often favored for baking.
Gas Oven
Gas ovens tend to be more cost-effective in terms of running costs because gas is usually cheaper than electricity. They are also known for their quick heating capabilities and even cooking results.
In general, if you’re looking to save on running costs, a gas oven might be the more economical choice. However, it’s essential to consider other factors like your cooking preferences and the availability of gas in your area.
Also read:
How to Save on the Cost of Running an Electric Oven?
While electric ovens may be more expensive to run, there are several strategies you can employ to reduce their running costs and make them more energy-efficient:
Invest in an Energy-Efficient Oven: Look for electric ovens with high energy efficiency ratings (A+ or A++). These ovens are designed to consume less electricity while providing the same cooking performance.
- Use the Right Cookware: Choose cookware that retains and distributes heat efficiently. This allows you to cook at lower temperatures and reduce cooking times.
- Cook with Convection: Many electric ovens come equipped with convection fans that circulate hot air, allowing for more even cooking. Using convection mode can help you cook at lower temperatures and save energy.
- Preheat Efficiently: Preheating your oven is essential for certain recipes, but it can be wasteful if done excessively. Preheat only as long as necessary to save energy.
- Cook Multiple Dishes at Once: Whenever possible, cook multiple dishes in a single oven cycle to maximize energy efficiency.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your oven clean and well-maintained. Dirty ovens can have reduced efficiency and longer cooking times.
- Consider Alternative Cooking Methods: For certain dishes, consider alternative cooking methods like slow cookers, microwaves, or induction hobs, which can be more energy-efficient.
Should You Choose a Gas or Electric Oven? Pros and Cons
The choice between a gas and electric oven depends on your specific needs, preferences, and circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision:
Electric Oven
Pros:
- Precise Temperature Control: Electric ovens offer precise temperature control, making them ideal for baking and delicate dishes.
- Even Cooking: They provide even heating, ensuring consistent results.
- Availability: Electric ovens are widely available and can be installed in most kitchens.
- No Gas Supply Required: You don’t need a gas supply, making them suitable for areas without natural gas access.
Cons:
- Higher Running Costs: Electric ovens tend to have higher running costs due to the cost of electricity.
- Longer Preheating Times: They often take longer to preheat compared to gas ovens.
- Potential for Uneven Cooking: Some electric ovens may have hot spots that lead to uneven cooking.
Gas Oven
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Gas ovens are generally more cost-effective to run due to lower gas prices.
- Quick Heating: They heat up quickly, reducing cooking times.
- Moist Heat: Gas ovens produce moist heat, which can be beneficial for roasting and certain types of baking.
- Less Environmental Impact: Natural gas is considered a cleaner-burning fuel compared to electricity generated from fossil fuels.
Cons:
- Limited Availability: Gas ovens may not be an option if your home lacks access to natural gas.
- Less Precise Temperature Control: They may have less precise temperature control, which can be challenging for baking.
- Potential for Open Flame: Gas ovens have an open flame, which some people may find intimidating or unsafe.
- Regular Maintenance: Gas ovens require periodic maintenance to ensure safe operation.
Conclusion
In the UK, the cost of running an electric oven is influenced by electricity tariffs, oven wattage, usage patterns, and energy efficiency. Gas ovens, on the other hand, are generally more cost-effective due to lower gas prices.
However, the choice between the two depends on your cooking preferences, the availability of gas in your area, and other factors.
To save on electric oven running costs, you can invest in an energy-efficient oven, use the right cookware, employ convection cooking, preheat efficiently, cook multiple dishes at once, maintain your oven, and consider alternative cooking methods when appropriate.
