Induction vs gas hobs
Induction vs Gas? – decisions, decisions…
Investing in a new hob is an important and exciting part of designing a new kitchen – and something which deserves due consideration. After all it will be the hub of your kitchen for years to come.
When considering whether an induction or gas hob is the right choice for you, there are a number of aspects to think about to help you make the right choice. Cost is obviously a factor, along with the space you have, the size of the appliance and its features and functionality. But also think about how you like to cook and the dishes you enjoy making.
One of the most useful ways to make your decision is to visit a showroom and experience the range of options for yourself – an aspect we can certainly help with! We have a wide selection of beautifully styled appliances from Miele, BORA and Siemens.
Gas – the traditional choice
Perhaps suited to a more classic or traditionally styled kitchen, a gas hob has the valued feature of being able to see the flame, with the responsiveness and perceived control that this brings with it.

Intense, controllable heat
Gas hobs give an intense heat and are therefore particularly suited to cooking that uses its fast and controllable flame – flash frying for example. If you are particularly keen on wok cooking, then a gas hob might be appealing.
However, if low-level simmering is something that you need the flexibility to use more regularly, gas isn’t as efficient as an induction hob.
Keeping it clean!
Cleaning a gas hob is more complex than a simple wipe over. The griddles or grates and burners mean that there are more surface areas that can attract splashes and food particles, so keeping a gas hob clean is slightly more involved. However, there are a number of sleeker designs available that minimise the effort needed to keep a gas hob clean and pristine.
Environmental considerations
With the long-term use of gas as a source of heat under scrutiny, this might be a factor that influences decision making. Electricity is a cleaner and more sustainable resource, and this will certainly become more topical in years to come. But, in the relative short-term, gas is still going to be very much part of our everyday lives.
Pros of gas hobs
- See the flame, giving the feeling of greater control
- Good for wok cooking / fast frying
- Many designs now available, including sleeker, more contemporary options
Cons of gas hobs
- Trickier to clean
- Most hobs require a mains gas supply but some can run from bottled gas with additional LPG conversion kits/jets
- Environmental considerations
Induction cooking
Induction hobs lend themselves to contemporary kitchen design. Their sleek, minimalist styling and ability to fit flush into the kitchen worktop, make them an unobtrusive appliance for one that is used so regularly. For open-plan kitchens, this is a particular benefit.

Magnetic attraction
With induction cooking, it’s the pan that heats up and not the hob. This is achieved through a process involving magnetism and is very energy efficient. This feature is particularly beneficial and reassuring if there are little hands that like to help with the cooking. Some models of induction hob come with a child lock as an additional safety feature.
Read more about keeping children safe in your kitchen.
Mod cons
Induction cooking gives a great deal of control, with the ability to maintain low-level heat when required, and turn up the heat quickly and efficiently when needed. Some appliances have a temperature control built in, which can detect the heat of the pan to ensure the food does not burn.
Built in extractor fans, such as those featured by BORA, are subtle in appearance and effective in minimising cooking smells – again, a benefit for open-plan kitchen design.
A new set of pans?
One question that is frequently asked about induction cooking is whether it’ll be necessary to buy a complete new set of pans. Induction hobs need ferrous metal pan bases (containing iron).
So, if your current set of pans are cast iron or 18/10 steel, they will work perfectly well. Pans with bases made of copper, stainless steel, aluminium or glass will not work – pans made from these materials need an induction plate on their base to work on the hob.
Pros of induction hobs
- Sleek and contemporary designs
- Easy to clean
- Easy to control
- Safe surface – the magnetic current only heats the pan and not hands
- Some feature a child lock
- Built-in extractor fans to minimise cooking smells – ideal for open-plan living
Cons of induction hobs
- May need a new set of pans
- Often more costly that other hobs
Visit our showroom to help you decide
Our spectacular showroom has a range of hobs and other appliances on display, with some available for a live demo. Or call us on 01959 53 22 33 to discuss which might be the right one for your home.
About Great British Kitchens & Interiors
We create beautiful, handmade kitchens in styles from traditional through to ultramodern.
We are based in Sevenoaks and work throughout Kent and south London with recent installations of kitchens in Orpington, Bromley, Biggin Hill, Chislehurst and Dartford.
For a taste of what we do, visit our Sevenoaks showroom, or call us on 01959 53 22 33 to find out more.