Thinking About Ditching Your Gas Stove? Let’s Talk About Induction 

“Now you’re cookin’ with gas!” was a slogan dreamed up in the 1930s to convince people that natural gas—aka methane—was the best way to cook. It stuck for generations. 

But, in the words of a Canadian researcher, her team “were all pretty horrified” when they discovered that benzene fumes from gas cooking stick around for hours. Benzene (also found in second-hand smoke and diesel exhaust) is one of the most potent leukemia-causing substances out there. 

That said, many home cooks are still on the fence about giving up their gas range. If that’s you, you’re not alone. So, let’s walk through some of the most common questions and thoughts, and what the researchers (and professional cooks!) have to say about switching to induction. 

Not sure what induction cooking is?  It’s a type of electric cooking that uses magnetic fields to heat pots and pans directly—so the cooktop stays cool while you get incredibly fast, precise temperature control. 

Why you might want to stick with your gas stove… 

The Question: “Don’t all professional chefs use gas?”  Actually, many professional chefs prefer induction. The team at Canoe switched entirely to induction—not just for the speed and precision, but also to protect their kitchen staff from gas fumes.  

The Question: “My exhaust fan takes care of the fumes, right?”  Most fans don’t stay on long enough—or aren’t strong enough—to remove all the pollutants gas cooking produces. It helps, but even small amounts of benzene gas are harmful. 

The Question: “What about power outages?”  It’s true: electric stoves don’t work during blackouts. The next time the lights go out, you’ll have to join us at the backyard BBQ. 

The Question: “Aren’t induction stoves noisy?”  Some models make a quiet humming sound when in use, but the delicious sound of sizzling onions cancels it out. 

Why people make the switch 

1. Induction stoves are way faster than gas!  Induction stoves heat pans almost instantly and give you fine-tuned temperature control that gas and regular electric stoves just can’t match. That’s why you’ll find induction in many high-end kitchens around the world. 

2. They want healthier air inside their home  Gas stoves release benzene, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide—none of which are great to breathe in. Induction stoves don’t release any of these air pollutants. 

3. Induction stoves are safer to use  No flames, no open heat source, and no risk of gas leaks. Induction stoves much more kid friendly as well—the cooking element never gets hot!   

4. Cleaning them is a breeze  Since the surface around the pan doesn’t get hot, food spills don’t get baked on. You can wipe it clean right after cooking. And they have a flat surface—no more juggling grates.  

5. They’re more energy efficient  Induction transfers heat straight into your cookware, not the air around it. That means it cooks faster, uses less energy, and doesn’t heat up your kitchen on summer days. 

What might cost extra? 

Electrical updates Gas stoves use a standard 110-volt plug, but full-size induction ranges usually need a 240-volt outlet (the same kind your dryer uses). If you’re replacing an old electric stove, you may already have this. If not, you’ll want to factor the cost of this update into your budget. 

Cookware Not all pots and pans work with induction. Don’t worry, your great-great Grandma's cast iron will work fine! You’ll need cookware with a magnetic base (like cast iron or stainless steel).  

Upfront costs Some induction ranges cost a bit more than gas or traditional electric models, but it really depends on the model and prices are coming down fast. You can get a high-quality full-size induction range for around $2,000, which matches mid to high end gas ranges. A standalone cooktop is often less, and a portable induction burner can be had for as little as $100. 

What about pacemakers? 

Some pacemakers can be affected by the magnetic field from an induction stove. If you have one, check with your cardiologist or the device manufacturer before making the switch. 

So, should you make the switch? 

Like most things in life, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on what you're planning and what matters most to you. 

• Renovating your kitchen or upgrading your electrical service? Great time to make the switch. 

• Not sure if induction fits your cooking style? Try a small portable unit. They plug into a regular outlet and work beautifully for most day-to-day meals. 

• Looking to go all-electric and cancel your gas account? An induction stove is often your last step—and switching could save you hundreds each year in gas service fees alone. 

  
  

At the end of the day, switching to induction is about comfort, cost, safety, and health. If even one of those is a priority for you, it might be worth giving this modern cooking method a close look.