prepare meals for your family on a tight schedule

Most of the time when you purchase a kitchen appliance, your already know what color you need, so your only real decision is what features are most important. But for one appliance, the stove, there's a huge choice: gas or electric. Each of these options has its own benefits, and each has its own drawbacks. Here's a look at the primary advantages of each to help you make an informed choice.

Cleaning If a sleek, clean look is a priority, or if you've got a consistently busy schedule, you're going to want to invest in an electric range. Most electric versions have a glass or ceramic top that doesn't have crevices for food to slip in to. Of course, there are gas burners that are "sealed" to prevent spills from seeping in.

Cost If cost is a concern, know that electric stoves are generally less expensive initially than their gas counterparts. But over time, operating a gas stove will costs less than operating an electric. Both options have their cost-saving benefits, it's just a matter of saving money now or later.

Conservation "Going green" has been a trend in almost every industry in recent years, and the kitchen is no different. If you're considering the environment, gas stoves are usually the more earth-friendly choice. They give off instant heat, meaning you're operating the appliance for less time.

Combustibility and carbon monoxide Safety is a concern with any appliance you purchase, but a stove is probably the one appliance that brings the most concerns. Especially if there are children in the house, accidentally turning on a burner is also an issue. Both gas and electric stoves are very safe when used properly, so neither is "dangerous" on its own. But gas does require more caution. The gas you're cooking with is highly flammable, and it's dangerous to inhale. If you do have a gas stove, make sure you install a carbon monoxide detector.

Cooking Ultimately, isn't actual cooking the most important aspect of your stove? Gas stoves provide much better temperature control for your food, as feedback is instant. Turn down the flame, and the temperature lowers. Electric ranges cook perfectly fine, but temperature adjustments take time. Also, any type of cookware can be used on a gas burner without damaging it, but cast iron cookware should not be used on a smooth top range. Pans that have an uneven or warped bottom will cook fairly evenly on gas, but will cook less uniformly on an electric top.

Many cooks will have strong opinions on this debate, so it's important to be informed before you make your purchase. You also can speak with a garland stove parts supplier to learn more about stove options.