At a Glance
Do Gas Cooktops Need Electricity?
Best Gas Cooktops for Powerful Cooking Performance
Why Trust East Coast Appliance?
While gas cooktops are known for their reliable flame and quick heat control, many people wonder if they also require electricity.
Whether you're planning a kitchen upgrade or just curious about how gas cooktops function, understanding their need for electricity is key.
In this blog, we’ll break down how electricity factors into cooktops and showcase the best gas cooktops in the market, helping you pick the perfect one—whether you prefer simplicity or high-tech features. Let’s find your ideal cooktop!
Do Gas Cooktops Need Electricity?
First, let’s answer the question: Do gas cooktops need electricity? In short, no. Basic gas cooktops only require gas to ignite the burners for cooking.
If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss option, a gas cooktop without an electrical connection will work perfectly.
However, if you're interested in advanced features like smart technology, enhanced ignition systems, or additional safety options, you'll need a gas cooktop that does use electricity to power those functions.
One of the main benefits of buying a gas cooktop is that you can still use it during a power outage. However, you may need to manually ignite the stove and will not be able to access the electrical elements.
→ Learn More: 6 Best Gas Cooktops to Prepare Your Holiday (and Everyday) Meals
How Does a Gas Stove Work: The Mechanics Uncovered
It’s easier to answer do gas cooktops need electricity if you have a clear understanding of how these appliances work. Here is a basic overview of gas cooktops, along with the role electricity plays in the process.
- Gas flow: Gas is released and controlled by the knobs.
- Ignition: Either a manual source or an electric igniter sparks the gas.
- Flame: The gas ignites, creating a flame to cook over.
- Control: Adjust the flame by regulating gas flow; turn off the knob to stop the gas and extinguish the flame.|
Modern gas stoves have safety features that prevent gas leaks if the flame goes out, and some even automatically reignite.
This makes them a safe option for most families. Larger or more advanced models may include extra electrical features, like timers and smart controls, offering the same conveniences you'd find in electric cooktops.
→ Learn More: Cafe Cooktops: Comparing Induction and Gas Options
Pros and Cons of Gas Cooktops: Electric Assistance vs. Independence
Once you have an answer to do gas cooktops need electricity, you can move on to decide whether these models are right for you. Here are a few pros and cons of gas stove models for different types of homeowners.
✅ Pros
- Many gas stoves can still be used during a power outage.
- Gas stoves are often more affordable than electric or induction models.
- Gas offers versatile cooking control, with quick heat adjustments for both high and low settings.
❎ Cons
- Gas stoves aren’t the most energy-efficient; induction cooktops take the lead here.
- Models with electric elements may cost more and be trickier to install.
- Despite safety features, extra care is needed to ensure gas stoves are fully turned off after cooking.
Understanding how a gas range works emphasizes the importance of safety. It’s crucial to ensure the fuel source is completely shut off once you’re done cooking to avoid any risks.
→ Learn More: 7 Best Reviewed 30-Inch Gas Ranges
Best Gas Cooktops for Powerful Cooking Performance
If you decide that a gas stove is right for you, the next step is to identify the ideal gas cooktop for your home. Here are six of the best gas cooktops available that could be an ideal fit for your kitchen.
LG Studio 30" Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
Shop LG 30" Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
An LG gas cooktop is a great place to start any search. The UltraHeat™ is ideal for boiling water quickly or getting the power you need.
With LED-backlit knobs, stove adjustments are effortless. The EasyClean® system also minimizes cleanup time—just a simple wipe around the burners, no scrubbing required.
⭐Featured LG Gas Cooktop #CBGS3028S Review:
"This thing is amazing! Most of the time we don’t even turn the burners to high because the heat is so abundant."
Monogram 30" Stainless Steel Deep-Recessed Natural Gas Cooktop
Shop Monogram 30" Natural Gas Cooktop
Experience luxury cooking with the Monogram gas cooktop, designed with five powerful burners and front-facing controls for effortless operation.
The largest burner on this cooktop delivers an impressive 20,000 BTU, with a total combined power of 62,000 BTU across all burners. The durable, heavy-duty grates are designed to withstand the demands of everyday cooking.
⭐Featured Monogram Gas Cooktop #ZGU30RSLSS Review:
"Just bought this and it is amazing. Works like a charm. Each burner has the option to simmer and works great."
Fisher & Paykel Series 9 36" Stainless Steel Liquid Propane Cooktop
Shop Fisher & Paykel 36" gas Cooktop
This is another luxury model that rises to meet the needs of customers. The controls are located on the side, so you can keep your hands away from hot surfaces.
The strongest burner on the Fisher & Paykel gas cooktop fires up to 20,000 BTU, easily keeping up with your cooking needs. This cooktop also stands out from other appliances on the market, elevating the look and feel of your kitchen.
⭐ Featured Fisher & Pakel Gas Cooktop #CDV3-365H-L Review:
"Great cooktop for a serious cook. Love that all 5 burners can simmer at ultra-low heat or can crank out serious BTUs if needed. Illuminated knobs are also a very nice feature preventing you from walking away from a lit burner when you are done."
Maytag 36" Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
Shop Maytag 36" Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
This Maytag gas cooktop is an excellent option for buyers looking for great deals.
With an 18,000 BTU burner for maximum power and additional elements for simmering and heating, this cooktop is versatile.
The DuraClean™ cast-iron grates make spill clean-up easy, and it's fully ADA-compliant for convenience.
⭐Featured Maytag Gas Cooktop #MGC9536DS Review:
"The cooktop is great. Easy to clean and the express burner boilers water in 1/2 the time. The grates are heavy and of great quality. The melt burner is perfect for butter for popcorn!"
JennAir 36" Stainless Steel Natural Gas Cooktop
Shop JennAir 36" Natural Gas Cooktop
One of the benefits of buying a luxury gas cooktop is the extra features that come with high-end models.
For example, this 36” gas cooktop from JennAir comes with six burners instead of the standard five. This is one of the most powerful stoves, reaching 78,000 BTU of power.
There are also LED indicator lights that tell you which burners are still on for easy control.
⭐Featured JennAir Gas Cooktop #JGC7636BS Review:
"Great product with burners that quickly provide heat (or slowly provide heat - love that burner too). It's awesome to have 6 burners when guests come for dinner & I adore the little light that reminds me I left a burner on."
KitchenAid 30" Stainless Steel Gas Downdraft Cooktop
Shop KitchenAid 30 Gas Downdraft Cooktop
Rounding out the list of options is this KitchenAid gas range. It’s a smaller, more simple range that can still give you the power you need.
The largest burner reaches 17,000 BTU and the full-width iron grates are easy to handle. This is also a gas cooktop with downdraft, which means it comes with a three-speed fan that provides ventilation even if you don’t have a range hood.
⭐Featured KitchenAid Gas Cooktop #KCGD500GSS Review:
"Every time I walk into my kitchen, I just have to glance over to look at my new, beautiful cooktop! There isn't anything I don't like about it. It's easy to clean, it's so quiet and it looks great!"
Gas vs. Electric: A Cooktop Showdown
If you want a simpler option, consider investing in an electric cooktop instead. You don’t have to know what gas do gas stoves use and whether or not they need electricity.
Electric models are often considered simpler and easier to clean if they come with flat glass surfaces. They are also more energy efficient.
That said, there are some drawbacks to buying electric models. They often lack the powerful performance of gas and they aren’t useful when the power goes out.
There isn’t a single answer for what kind of cooktop is best. Some people may benefit from a standard gas stove while others want gas with electric or a simple electric model. Choose what is right for your specific needs.
→ Learn More: The Ultimate Guide to 48" Gas Ranges: Features, Brands, and Prices
Is Electricity a Dealbreaker for Your Gas Cooktop?
While gas cooktops don’t always need electricity, it enhances convenience and safety. You may find that your cooktop is easier to use and comes with a few bonus features because of the electrical connection.
However, the installation will also take a few more steps. Manual ignition is always an option, which makes gas cooktops versatile during power outages. Make the best choice for your home when deciding between a gas vs electric cooktop. You may be surprised which model you choose.
To explore different cooking appliances, including a natural gas range oven or stove, visit East Coast Appliance. We have one of the widest selections of gas cooktops in the region, including those with manual ignitions. Stop by today and let us help you find your ideal appliance.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about gas cooktops:
Do gas cooktops require electricity to function?
Basic gas cooktops typically do not require electricity to operate the burners. However, models with electric ignition, timers, or advanced features may need an electrical connection.
How does an electric ignition work on a gas cooktop?
Electric ignition uses a small electrical spark to ignite the gas when you turn the knob. This feature is more convenient than using a match or lighter and is common in modern gas cooktops.
Can I use my gas cooktop during a power outage?
Yes, many gas cooktops can still be used during a power outage. You may need to light the burners manually with a match if the model relies on electric ignition.
What are the benefits of having a gas cooktop with electric features?
Gas cooktops with electric features, such as auto-ignition, timers, and smart controls, offer more convenience, precise temperature control, and enhanced safety features.
Why Trust East Coast Appliance?
Locally owned and operated since 1988, East Coast Appliance is the largest independent appliance dealer in Virginia. We sell it ALL — from new name-brand appliances to scratch-and-dent appliances to our very own refurbished appliances. Aside from our huge selection of every major brand and everyday low prices, what sets us apart from our competitors is that we service what we sell and that we are locally owned and operated with factory-trained associates. And if you’re a local, great news: East Coast Appliance is committed to providing the absolute lowest prices on the same available brand and model — simply bring in the ad of the local retail competitor while the lower price is in effect and you'll receive your price match.
Shop Gas Cooktops at East Coast
There is a reason we are dubbed “The Discount King” — for unbeatable deals, shop cooking online at East Coast Appliance. Our friendly associates are always happy to help you find the best gas cooktops for your kitchen, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one of our showrooms to see why we are the best appliance store in Virginia. Visit us today!