Saving Green: Induction stoves can offer health benefits and improved energy efficiency

We both recently replaced our gas stoves with induction stoves because we had heard of the health risks of gas cooking, and wanted a more environmentally friendly option. While changing a stove is not as major an investment as other climate-friendly initiatives such as switching to an electric vehicle or a residential heat pump, the change may have large health and safety advantages for you and your children, especially if you replace a gas range with an induction range.

A 2023 study from Stanford University found that indoor air quality suffers from natural gas range use through incomplete combustion and through methane leaks, even when the stove is not being used. The nitrogen dioxide that is created during the cooking process also releases airborne particles and harmful concentrations of formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and nitric oxides.

These emissions can trigger asthma and difficulty breathing. Children living in homes with gas stoves are 42% more likely to have asthma, according to a study by the Harvard Medical School. Hoods and air vents can help remove indoor air pollution — but only if they are used. Surveys and our own experience show that frequently they are not.

In addition to better indoor air quality, what are some of the benefits of induction ranges? The use of an electromagnetic field below the glass surface transfers energy directly to magnetic cookware which enables a surface to heat very fast and cool quickly, too. Induction is 5-10% more energy efficient than conventional electric and about 30% more efficient than gas (Consumer Reports), and safer because the cooktop remains cool to the touch and there is no open flame. Similar to radiant cooktops, cleanup on the glass surface is easy.

There are a few drawbacks to induction ranges. They require a magnetic surface to transfer energy. When sorting through our cookware using a magnet to test for compatibility, we found only a few items that would work with the new range.

Fortunately, real cast iron skillets are magnetic. They can scratch the glass stove top, though, but we’ve found that placing a sheet of parchment paper under them when you’re cooking is effective in protecting the stovetop.

Finally, Consumer Reports indicates there is a possibility that the electromagnetic source interferes with pacemakers: check this out if it affects you or someone in your family.

For most folks, it makes sense to buy an induction stove when an old gas or electric unit needs to be replaced. Induction cooktops are usually paired with a convection oven and sometimes even with an air fry setting. Their price is now higher than conventional stoves, but costs are declining as demand and competition among manufacturers increase. If you decide to convert from a gas stove to an induction stove, you ‘ll need a dedicated, grounded 240-volt circuit with a 40-50 amp breaker that terminates in an approved junction box mounted near the cooktop. Upgrading this service can qualify for as much as a $600 tax credit (see the IRS website for details.) Kitchens that currently have an electric stove probably already have this electrical service.

There are some significant cost savings available if you are ready to buy an induction range. Rebates from the Inflation Reduction Act of up to $840 for low-income households and scaled for other households will soon be available through state energy offices: in Washington State, probably by September, and through Idaho, probably sometime in 2025. The rebates also apply to many other appliances and energy efficiencies including home weatherization purchases. One more consideration: As the U.S. transitions away from fossil fuels, homes with features such as induction stoves, heat pumps, and electric water heaters will have a higher resale value.

If the price of installing 240-volt service, plus a new induction range, is still too high for you right now, you might consider starting induction-powered cooking with a portable induction burner — typically priced around $50. This is also a great alternative for renters, especially those who are concerned about indoor air quality.

The bottom line for both of us: our induction ranges were a good investment. They speed up cooking (and cooling) time, are easy to clean, reduce energy costs, and, when compared with our old gas stoves, mean cleaner and safer air within our homes.

In upcoming Saving Green columns, your neighbors from around the Palouse will offer their experiences with electric vehicles, rooftop solar, and managing the transition from a gas-fueled home to all-electric. If you have a topic you would like to see discussed, let us know.

Von Seggern is a longtime Pullman resident. Dupree is a longtime Moscow resident. Both are members of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby. Saving Green is a column spearheaded by the Citizens Climate Lobby and the Climate Action Working Group. With suggestions or questions about this column, visit cclpalouse.org.