There are many factors to consider when choosing gas appliances, such as budget, efficiency, ease of cooking and safety.
Every club kitchen has different equipment needs based on its size and offerings along with many other factors to consider when it comes to choosing appliances. Factors such as budget, the size of membership, the menu, and efficiency are all important to consider, but one of the most critical factors that fall into each of those categories in which energy source to choose for appliances.
There are many advantages and disadvantages of gas appliances for a club kitchen, but it is probably the most preferred among chefs. Initially, the upfront cost of gas appliances is usually pricier compared to their counterparts. However, gas appliances are believed to last longer and are more energy-efficient. Gas appliances are cheaper to operate because gas is almost always cheaper than electricity which can really add up depending on the size of a club’s kitchen.
Gas appliances will need a natural gas source and line installation, which can be costly. Since an appliance needs to be directly connected to a natural gas line it could also be difficult and costly to move the appliance to a new location in the future if lines need to be rerouted. One of the major disadvantages of gas is that natural gas is toxic as well as highly flammable, with the possibility of explosions from leaks.
One of the biggest advantages when it comes to cooking with a gas appliance is that they allow for rapid temperature changes and can reach much hotter temperatures. The knobs on a gas-powered appliance mean the intensity of the heat can be controlled, making for a more accurate cooking control. However, hotter temperatures means a hotter kitchen. Gas appliances transmit heat more evenly as well as instantaneously, with no waiting time as the flame lights immediately. The cooling speed for gas appliances is also faster since the flame is immediately extinguished once an appliance is turned off.
There are several advantages and disadvantages of gas appliances, but a chef needs to consider what is best for their own club and kitchen environment.