The Truth About Electric Stoves: Pros, Cons, and Whether They're Right for You

beritapekanbaru.com -The advantages and disadvantages of using electric stoves are discussed in detail in this article. As part of the Indonesian government’s efforts to promote a transition from conventional gas stoves to more energy-efficient electric stoves, a total of 300,000 selected recipients will receive free electric stoves. This initiative is a crucial step in implementing the conversion program that aims to replace 3-kg LPG gas stoves with electric alternatives. By doing so, the government hopes to reduce reliance on subsidized LPG while encouraging the use of more sustainable and environmentally friendly cooking solutions.

According to a report by Kompas.com (published on September 21, 2022), the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Rida Mulyana, explained that the distribution of electric stoves will be targeted at households that are officially registered in the Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS). This ensures that the assistance is provided specifically to low-income families who are in genuine need of support. By focusing on these communities, the government aims to alleviate their financial burden while introducing them to an alternative cooking method that is expected to be safer, more efficient, and easier to maintain in the long run.

Furthermore, the conversion program aligns with Indonesia’s broader strategy to enhance energy security and reduce dependency on imported LPG. The initiative is also seen as a step toward optimizing the country’s electricity usage, particularly in areas where power supply is stable and underutilized. With the growing emphasis on sustainability, the government encourages the public to embrace electric stoves as part of a long-term shift toward cleaner energy consumption.

While electric stoves offer several advantages, such as cost savings on gas refills and improved safety due to the absence of open flames, they also come with certain challenges. These include potential increases in electricity bills and the need for a stable power supply to ensure uninterrupted cooking. The success of this transition will depend on various factors, including infrastructure readiness, public acceptance, and ongoing government support to ensure a smooth implementation.

Overall, this program reflects the government’s commitment to promoting energy efficiency and supporting underprivileged communities by providing them with modern cooking equipment. It is expected that, over time, the shift from gas to electric stoves will bring long-term benefits, both economically and environmentally, for households across Indonesia.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Electric Stoves

Lower Cooking Costs Compared to Gas Stoves

One of the key differences between electric and gas stoves is the cost of cooking. Studies show that using an electric stove is more cost-effective than using a gas stove, making it a significant advantage for households looking to save money.

Darmawan Prasodjo, the President Director of PT PLN, stated that as part of the government’s conversion program from LPG stoves to electric stoves, households could save up to IDR 8,000 per kilogram of LPG used. During a hearing with Commission VII of the House of Representatives (DPR) on September 14, 2022, Darmawan mentioned that using an induction stove allows households to save approximately 10-15% on cooking expenses compared to using LPG stoves.

Darmawan further explained that for cooking with an equivalent amount of energy as 1 kg of LPG, households typically spend around IDR 5,250 per kg. However, if they switch to an electric stove, the cost would be reduced to approximately IDR 4,530 per kg of LPG-equivalent energy, further reinforcing the cost-saving benefits of electric stoves.

Faster Cooking Time Compared to Gas Stoves

Another notable advantage of electric stoves is that they can cook food faster than gas stoves. This efficiency is particularly evident in boiling water and heating food.

According to tests conducted by PLN’s Research and Development Center (Puslitbang PLN) and the Research and Development Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (Balitbang Kementerian ESDM), an electric stove can heat 2.5 liters of water from 20 degrees Celsius to 90 degrees Celsius in a shorter time compared to a conventional gas stove.

The test results show that an electric stove with a power capacity of 1,800 watts can heat the water within 8 minutes and 47 seconds, while an LPG stove requires approximately 10 minutes and 29 seconds to achieve the same temperature. This demonstrates that electric stoves not only save energy but also significantly reduce cooking time.

Enhanced Safety Features

Another major advantage of electric stoves over gas stoves is their safety. Unlike gas stoves, which produce an open flame, induction stoves generate heat through electromagnetic energy. As a result, there is no direct flame, reducing the risk of fire hazards and gas leaks.

Additionally, electric stoves are more convenient to use and easier to clean. Since there are no open flames, there is less risk of burns or accidental fires. Another benefit of induction stoves is their ability to minimize household pollution, as they do not release harmful gases into the air, ensuring better indoor air quality for households.

Cool Surface Around the Stove During Use

One of the unique benefits of induction stoves is that the surface surrounding the cooking area remains cool even when the stove is in use. Unlike traditional stoves, which generate heat that spreads across the cooktop, an induction stove focuses heat only on the cookware. This means that even after cooking, the stove surface remains cool to the touch, reducing the risk of burns and making it safer for households, especially those with children.

Efficient Heat Transfer Without Energy Waste

Induction stoves use electromagnetic coils made from magnetic materials to generate heat. When an electric current passes through these coils, a magnetic field is created, which transfers energy directly to the iron or stainless-steel cookware placed on the stove.

This unique heating method ensures that heat is concentrated solely on the cookware, preventing energy loss and ensuring efficient cooking. The moment the cookware is lifted from the stove, the heat transfer stops immediately, and the surface of the stove returns to a cool state. This energy-efficient process makes induction stoves an environmentally friendly alternative to gas stoves.

Disadvantages of Electric Stoves

While electric stoves offer numerous advantages, there are also some drawbacks that need to be considered before making the switch.

Not Compatible with All Types of Cookware

One limitation of electric stoves is that they only work with specific types of cookware made from stainless steel or iron. Users need to ensure that their pots and pans are compatible with induction cooking.

To test compatibility, users can use a magnet. If the magnet sticks firmly to the bottom of the cookware, it means the cookware is suitable for use with an induction stove. If the magnet does not adhere properly, the cookware will not function on an induction stove, potentially requiring users to invest in new cooking utensils.

Higher Purchase Cost Compared to Gas Stoves

Another downside of electric stoves is their relatively high price compared to conventional gas stoves.

According to Fabby Tumiwa, Executive Director of the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), a high-quality induction stove typically costs between IDR 700,000 and IDR 2 million per unit. However, consumers can find a wide range of induction stoves, including single and double-burner models, at various price points on online shopping platforms and e-commerce websites.

Although the initial cost of purchasing an electric stove may be higher, the long-term savings on fuel costs and the added benefits of safety, efficiency, and ease of use make them an appealing choice for modern households.