Starting a Houston kitchen remodeling project? Ask our plumbers about converting your stove, oven, or range to natural gas! This offers many benefits. Converting to natural gas can be a fairly simple and cost-effective way to get the most out of your appliance. It can also save you money in the long-term.
Why Consider Installing a Gas Range During Houston Kitchen Remodeling?
There are several reasons many homeowners decide to make the switch to gas from electric in their kitchen. More and more people are starting to prefer natural gas options. One reason is because it’s a clean burning fuel, so it’s better for the environment. It’s also usually a lot cheaper per unit compared to electricity.
Because natural gas is so popular, switching to a natural gas range for your kitchen remodel might add value to your home. It may improve resale value. Also, you might be able to sell your home more quickly if you decide to sell later. For example, one survey from the National Association of Home Builders found that homes with natural gas appliances sold quicker. So, switching now may help you in future if you decide to sell your home.
Just keep in mind that it’s usually better to save electric to gas range conversions for bigger Houston kitchen remodeling projects. If you’re just repainting or updating a few things, then it may make a bigger mess than you’re ready for. Installing gas lines in your kitchen usually means placing new pipes inside the walls. So, wait until you do a major kitchen overhaul before having your Houston plumber install gas lines in the kitchen.
Electric vs. Gas Ranges
There are pros and cons to both electric and gas ranges, and a lot of this comes down to personal preference. Some people really love electric ranges, and that’s okay!
However, a lot of people, including professional chefs, prefer gas ranges. There are a few reasons for this.
First, natural gas ranges tend to offer better temperature control. Electric coils tend to hold onto heat for longer, but gas allows for almost instant temperature changes for your cooking needs. This also helps reduce the risk of burning your beautiful dinner. It also means it’s easier to char, toast, and flambé your food.
Natural gas is also better for the environment and your wallet. Natural gas ranges can save you about 33% on utility costs and have about half the carbon footprint of electric ranges.
Gas options also tend to heat up a lot faster than electric. So, when your kid tells you last minute about a bake sale, you’re not standing around as long waiting for the oven to preheat while you scramble.
Also, gas ranges tend to have fewer parts and are easier to maintain. This means they often last longer and need repairs less often, which can save you money and headaches.
Because of these reasons, professional-style ranges tend to either only offer gas options or have very limited electric options. So, if you’re considering investing in a professional-style range for your Houston kitchen remodeling project, you might need to convert to gas.
Dual Fuel Ranges
Can’t decide between gas and electric cooking? Then a dual fuel range might be a good option for you. These appliances use natural gas for the cooktop and electricity for the oven. Essentially you get the best of both worlds, as your oven will have the dry heat of an electric oven, but you still get the superior temperature control for your stove. Since these use both natural gas and electricity, you might need a plumber for the gas hookup and an electrician to make sure the outlet is the right size and voltage.
How to Convert Your Range to Gas During Houston Kitchen Remodeling
If you’re thinking about choosing a natural gas range instead of an electric one, then you’ll also need to consider the plumbing work that you’ll need for the conversion. Typically, it will require some labor and plumbing costs to do, but how much depends on a lot of different factors.
Generally, costs for installing or extending gas lines depends on how long they need to be. For example, adding an extra 20 feet of gas plumbing is usually going to cost more than just extending a line by a foot or two.
If you Already Have Gas Appliances in Your Home
Now, if you already have some gas plumbing in your home, then your Houston kitchen remodeling project may need less work to convert from an electric to a gas range. This means you’re already connected to the municipal line and have gas lines in your home.
Generally, all your plumber will need to do is extend an existing line or route a new line to your kitchen for a gas appliance. This is usually the most affordable and simple option for remodels. Once the new gas pipes are installed, we’ll connect them to your appliance and you can cook away (as long as the rest of your project is finished, that is).
If you have a Gas Meter & Unused Gas Lines
Sometimes, you might already have all the plumbing for natural gas in your home, but simply not use it. Many home builders include both natural gas and electric capabilities so you have options. If this is the case, the lines will be capped off, but they can be uncapped and used. A good way to know if this is the case is if you have a gas meter outside.
In this case, your Houston plumber will take the cap off the unused gas line so you can use it. From there, we may need to extend the line or re-route it, or, if it’s installed in the right place for the range, then we’ll connect it to your new appliance.
We may also do a few quick tests to make sure all your gas pipes are in good condition to ensure they’re safe for use. Once we’re done, you can set up the utility in your name and start using your newly remodeled kitchen.
If You Need to Hook Up to the Service Line
Now, if you don’t have a gas meter, then there’s a pretty good chance your home isn’t connected to the main service line. If this is the case, then you’ll need to check if there’s one nearby. You can check with the gas company how far the service line is from your home. Usually there will be one underneath your street.
If you want to connect to the gas service line for your range or for other natural gas appliances, then the first step is to have an expert plumb your home for gas. This is a job for a master plumber, because we’ll be creating a whole new system for your home. Also, improperly installed gas lines can be a safety hazard for your home and family, so it’s important to work with a qualified and reputable plumber for the job.
Once your home is ready for gas, then you’ll talk to CenterPoint Energy about connecting to the service line. They won’t connect you until your plumber has already completed the gas plumbing. After, they’ll need to install a line that runs from the main service line underground to your home. They’ll also install a meter so you can start using the utility.
Keep in mind that this option is probably the most expensive, especially if the main service line is far away. In some cases, it might drive up the costs of your Houston kitchen remodeling project by quite a lot. So, it’s important to get quality estimates and ask your remodeling contractor and plumber about your options. It might be a project for a future date if you’re not ready for the major renovations and up-front costs, so talk to experts you trust for a consultation.
Get Peace of Mind for Your Remodeling Project with an Expert Houston Plumber
If you’re starting a remodeling project and need expert plumbing services, choose our specialists at Santhoff Plumbing. We’ll work directly with your contractor to ensure your project goes smoothly and you get the plumbing services you need. Call us today at (713) 360-2185 to schedule a free plumbing remodel consultation and estimate!
We pride ourselves on providing the greater Houston area with high-quality, innovative plumbing services. Whether you’re starting a kitchen remodel or you need a Houston emergency plumber for repairs, we’re always here for you. Our team offers years of experience to handle all your plumbing needs.