When moving to a new home, one of the points that often matters is the room's equipment and fixtures. Among those essentials, the kitchen stove is a feature many people pay close attention to. The two main types of kitchen stoves are IH cooking heaters and gas cooktops. Because they use different power sources, their characteristics also differ. This article explains the differences between the two from the standpoint of actual day-to-day use.
What makes an IH cooking heater appealing? A look at safety, heating power, and ease of use
An IH cooking heater is a system that heats the bottom of a metal pan using magnetic force. When it first appeared more than a decade ago, some people voiced concerns about electromagnetic waves. Today, however, international guidelines are in place, and this is no longer generally viewed as a problem. Because heat is transferred from the bottom of the pan, both the pan itself and the cooktop surface can become quite hot.
The main advantages are as follows.
- The room temperature is less likely to rise: Cooking remains more comfortable even in summer
- The flat top surface is easy to clean
- Because it does not use an open flame, it is safer even when children use it
- Heat levels are easy to adjust with button controls
One point to note is that you need cookware that is compatible with IH. Many products today support IH, but some earthenware pots and design-focused branded items may not, so it is important to check in advance.
Which is more affordable in terms of utility bills and running costs?
If you compare running costs in simple terms, city gas tends to be cheaper per use. However, IH offers high thermal efficiency and can shorten cooking time, so the practical cost difference is minimal in most cases. If you switch to an all-electric setup, you also benefit from eliminating the basic gas fee.
On the other hand, a drawback is that it cannot be used during a power outage. Because electricity is likely to be disrupted during natural disasters, it is reassuring to keep a portable gas stove on hand as a backup.
A tabletop IH unit is also a useful secondary option
In addition to a built-in IH unit, it is also worth considering a tabletop IH cooker (priced under 10,000 yen). Because it can share the same IH-compatible cookware, you may no longer need a hot plate, which helps save space. It also pairs especially well with pots that have removable handles.
Key points to check when comparing a gas cooktop and IH
| Comparison item | IH | Gas cooktop |
| Unit price | Higher | Lower |
| Safety | High (no flame) | Standard |
| Ease of cleaning | Flat and easy | Requires cleaning the grates |
| During a power outage | Cannot be used | Can be used |
| Summer comfort | High | Lower |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which helps save more on electricity or gas costs: IH or a gas cooktop?
Because IH offers high thermal efficiency and can shorten cooking time, the practical utility cost is almost the same. If you choose an all-electric setup, you can also save on the basic gas fee.
If I switch to IH, do I need to replace all of my cookware?
Cookware that is not compatible with IH, such as aluminum, copper, or earthenware pots, cannot be used. Set products from brands such as T-fal are generally IH-compatible, so it is best to check your current cookware before deciding.
Which is more common in rental properties, gas cooktops or IH?
Older rental properties tend to have gas cooktops, while newly built and renovated properties are increasingly adopting IH. In all-electric apartment buildings, IH is the only option.
