Is an Electric Kettle Cheaper Than Gas

Electric kettles are generally cheaper to run than gas stovetops for boiling water, thanks to higher energy efficiency and faster heating times. While upfront costs and local energy prices vary, most households save money over time by switching to an electric kettle—especially with frequent use.

When it comes to boiling water—whether for your morning cup of tea, instant coffee, or quick pasta—most of us don’t think twice about the method we use. But have you ever stopped to wonder: *Is an electric kettle cheaper than gas?* It’s a question that’s gaining traction as energy bills rise and households look for ways to cut costs without sacrificing convenience.

At first glance, gas might seem like the cheaper option. After all, natural gas is often less expensive per unit than electricity. But the real answer isn’t just about fuel prices—it’s about how efficiently that fuel is used. Electric kettles are designed specifically for one job: heating water quickly and efficiently. Gas stovetops, on the other hand, are multipurpose appliances that lose a lot of heat to the air around the pot. This difference in efficiency can have a surprising impact on your energy bills over time.

In this article, we’ll break down the costs, compare energy efficiency, and explore real-world scenarios to help you decide whether switching to an electric kettle is worth it. Whether you’re a tea lover who boils water five times a day or someone who only heats water once in a while, understanding the financial and environmental implications can help you make a smarter choice.

Key Takeaways

• Electric kettles are more energy-efficient: They convert up to 80% of energy into heat, compared to gas stovetops, which lose significant heat to the surrounding air.
• Faster boiling reduces overall energy use: Electric kettles boil water in 2–4 minutes, using less total energy than gas, which takes longer and wastes heat.
• Lower running costs for frequent users: If you boil water multiple times a day, an electric kettle can save you £20–£40 per year compared to gas.
• Upfront cost vs long-term savings: Electric kettles cost £15–£50 upfront, but the energy savings often pay back the investment within months.
• Gas may be cheaper in some regions: In areas with very low gas prices and high electricity rates, gas could be slightly cheaper—but this is rare.
• Environmental impact favors electric: If your electricity comes from renewable sources, electric kettles have a much lower carbon footprint than gas.
• Convenience and safety add value: Automatic shut-off, temperature control, and portability make electric kettles a smart, safe choice for most homes.

Understanding the Basics: How Electric and Gas Kettles Work

Before we dive into cost comparisons, it helps to understand how each method works. This knowledge will make it easier to see why one might be more efficient—and cheaper—than the other.

How Electric Kettles Heat Water

Electric kettles are simple in design but highly effective. Inside the base or bottom of the kettle is a heating element, usually made of metal. When you plug in the kettle and turn it on, electricity flows through this element, causing it to heat up rapidly. The heat is then transferred directly to the water inside the kettle.

One of the biggest advantages of electric kettles is their direct heat transfer. Because the heating element is submerged or in direct contact with the water, very little energy is wasted. Most modern electric kettles also come with automatic shut-off features. Once the water reaches boiling point (100°C or 212°F), the kettle turns itself off. This not only saves energy but also prevents overheating and potential hazards.

Many electric kettles also offer variable temperature settings, allowing you to heat water to specific temperatures for different beverages—like green tea, which brews best at around 80°C. This precision means you’re not wasting energy by boiling water hotter than necessary.

How Gas Stovetops Heat Water

Gas stovetops work by burning natural gas or propane to produce a flame. This flame heats the bottom of a pot or kettle placed on the burner. The heat then transfers through the metal of the pot and into the water.

While gas stoves are great for cooking a variety of foods, they’re not as efficient when it comes to boiling water. A significant amount of heat is lost to the surrounding air—studies suggest that only about 40–55% of the heat from a gas flame actually reaches the water. The rest escapes into the kitchen, warming the air instead of the water.

Additionally, gas stovetops take longer to boil water. Depending on the size of the flame and the pot, it can take 5–10 minutes to bring a litre of water to a boil. During this time, gas continues to burn, even if the water isn’t yet ready. There’s also no automatic shut-off, so you have to remember to turn off the gas—otherwise, you risk boiling the pot dry or wasting fuel.

Key Differences at a Glance

To summarize:
– Electric kettles heat water directly, quickly, and with minimal waste.
– Gas stovetops rely on indirect heating, lose more energy to the environment, and take longer.

These differences set the stage for the cost comparison. While gas might be cheaper per unit of energy, the inefficiency of gas stovetops often cancels out that advantage.

Energy Efficiency: The Real Cost Difference

When comparing electric kettles to gas, energy efficiency is the most important factor. It’s not just about how much energy each method uses—it’s about how much of that energy actually goes into heating the water.

Measuring Efficiency: What the Numbers Say

Energy efficiency is typically measured as a percentage: how much of the input energy is converted into useful heat for the water.

– Electric kettles are about 75–85% efficient. This means that 75–85% of the electricity used goes directly into heating the water. The rest is lost as heat to the surroundings or used by the kettle’s internal components.
– Gas stovetops are only about 40–55% efficient. That means nearly half of the energy from the gas flame is wasted—heating the air, the stove, and the kitchen instead of the water.

To put this into perspective, imagine you’re trying to fill a bucket with a hose. An electric kettle is like using a nozzle that directs all the water straight into the bucket. A gas stovetop is like spraying water everywhere—some goes in, but most splashes out.

Real-World Example: Boiling 1 Litre of Water

Let’s say you want to boil 1 litre (about 4 cups) of water, starting from room temperature (20°C). Here’s how the energy use compares:

– An electric kettle uses about 0.1 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity to boil 1 litre.
– A gas stovetop uses about 0.035 therms of gas to do the same job.

Now, let’s look at the cost. In the UK, the average electricity price is around £0.28 per kWh. The average gas price is about £0.07 per kWh equivalent (or roughly £0.70 per therm).

So:
– Electric kettle: 0.1 kWh × £0.28 = £0.028 per boil
– Gas stovetop: 0.035 therms × £0.70 = £0.0245 per boil

At first glance, gas seems cheaper—by less than half a penny per boil. But this calculation assumes 100% efficiency, which isn’t realistic. When we factor in the actual efficiency:

– Electric kettle (80% efficient): £0.028 ÷ 0.80 = £0.035 per effective boil
– Gas stovetop (50% efficient): £0.0245 ÷ 0.50 = £0.049 per effective boil

Now, the electric kettle is actually cheaper—by about 30% per boil.

Why Efficiency Matters More Than Fuel Price

Even though gas is cheaper per unit, its inefficiency means you end up using more of it to get the same result. Electric kettles, while using a more expensive energy source, make better use of every watt.

This efficiency gap becomes even more significant with frequent use. If you boil water 5 times a day, the small savings per boil add up quickly.

Cost Comparison: Running an Electric Kettle vs Gas

Now that we understand efficiency, let’s look at the real-world costs of using each method over time.

Daily and Annual Costs

Let’s assume you boil 1 litre of water 3 times a day—once for morning tea, once for lunch, and once for dinner. That’s 3 boils per day, 365 days a year.

Using the adjusted costs from earlier:
– Electric kettle: £0.035 per boil × 3 × 365 = £38.33 per year
– Gas stovetop: £0.049 per boil × 3 × 365 = £53.66 per year

That’s a difference of over £15 per year—just for boiling water. If you boil water 5 times a day, the gap widens to nearly £25 per year.

Upfront Costs and Payback Period

Electric kettles aren’t free. A good-quality electric kettle costs between £15 and £50, depending on features like temperature control, material (plastic, stainless steel, glass), and brand.

But the energy savings can pay back this cost quickly. Let’s say you buy a £30 electric kettle. If you save £15 per year on energy, the kettle pays for itself in just 2 years. After that, every year you’re saving money.

In contrast, gas stovetops are usually part of a larger cooker, so there’s no additional upfront cost. But you’re paying more every time you use it.

Regional Variations in Energy Prices

Energy costs vary by country and region. In the UK and much of Europe, electricity is more expensive per unit than gas, but the efficiency of electric kettles still makes them cheaper to run.

In the US, the difference is smaller. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average residential electricity price is about $0.16 per kWh, while natural gas is about $0.03 per kWh equivalent. Even with these prices, electric kettles often come out ahead due to their efficiency.

However, in regions with very low gas prices and high electricity costs—such as some parts of the Middle East or industrial zones—gas might be slightly cheaper. But these are exceptions, not the rule.

Impact of Usage Frequency

The more you boil water, the greater the savings with an electric kettle.

– Light users (1 boil per day): Save about £5–£10 per year.
– Moderate users (3 boils per day): Save £15–£25 per year.
– Heavy users (5+ boils per day): Save £30–£40 or more per year.

For households with multiple people making tea, coffee, or instant meals, the savings are substantial.

Environmental Impact: Which Is Greener?

Cost isn’t the only factor to consider. The environmental impact of your choice matters too.

Carbon Emissions: Electricity vs Gas

The carbon footprint of boiling water depends on how your electricity and gas are produced.

– Natural gas is a fossil fuel. Burning it releases carbon dioxide (CO₂), a greenhouse gas. On average, burning 1 kWh of gas produces about 0.2 kg of CO₂.
– Electricity varies widely. In the UK, the average carbon intensity is about 0.2 kg CO₂ per kWh, but this is falling as more renewable energy (wind, solar, nuclear) comes online.

However, because electric kettles are so efficient, their total emissions are often lower. For example:
– Electric kettle: 0.1 kWh × 0.2 kg CO₂ = 0.02 kg CO₂ per boil
– Gas stovetop: 0.035 therms ≈ 0.7 kWh gas × 0.2 kg CO₂ = 0.14 kg CO₂ per boil (before efficiency loss)

Even after adjusting for efficiency, gas produces significantly more CO₂ per boil.

The Role of Renewable Energy

If your home uses renewable electricity—either through solar panels or a green energy tariff—the environmental benefit of electric kettles increases dramatically. In such cases, boiling water with an electric kettle can be nearly carbon-neutral.

Gas, on the other hand, always produces emissions when burned, regardless of how “clean” it is marketed.

Long-Term Sustainability

As the world shifts toward renewable energy, electric appliances like kettles will become even greener. Gas, being a fossil fuel, will always have a higher environmental cost.

Choosing an electric kettle today is a step toward a more sustainable kitchen.

Convenience, Safety, and Additional Benefits

Beyond cost and efficiency, electric kettles offer several practical advantages.

Speed and Convenience

Electric kettles boil water in 2–4 minutes, depending on the model and volume. Gas stovetops take 5–10 minutes. That’s a big difference when you’re in a hurry.

Many electric kettles also have features like:
– Keep-warm function: Maintains water temperature for several minutes.
– Variable temperature settings: Perfect for different types of tea or baby formula.
– Rapid boil technology: Some models boil water in under 2 minutes.

These features make electric kettles ideal for busy households.

Safety Features

Electric kettles are generally safer than gas stovetops for boiling water:
– Automatic shut-off: Prevents overheating and dry boiling.
– Boil-dry protection: Turns off if there’s no water inside.
– Cool-touch handles: Reduce the risk of burns.
– No open flame: Eliminates fire risk and gas leaks.

Gas stovetops require constant monitoring. If you forget to turn off the flame, you could waste gas, burn your pot, or even start a fire.

Portability and Space

Electric kettles are portable. You can use them in the kitchen, living room, or even at your desk. Gas stovetops are fixed appliances.

This makes electric kettles great for small spaces, offices, or student accommodations.

When Might Gas Be the Better Option?

Despite the advantages of electric kettles, there are a few scenarios where gas might make more sense.

Infrequent Use

If you only boil water once a week, the cost difference is negligible—less than £1 per year. In this case, the convenience of your existing gas stove might outweigh the tiny savings.

Power Outages

Gas stoves can still work during a power outage (if they have a manual ignition), while electric kettles won’t function. If you live in an area with frequent blackouts, this could be a deciding factor.

Off-Grid Living

In remote areas without reliable electricity, gas (especially propane) may be the only practical option.

High Electricity Costs

In rare cases where electricity is extremely expensive and gas is very cheap, gas might edge out electric. But this is uncommon in most developed countries.

Tips to Maximize Savings with an Electric Kettle

If you decide to switch to an electric kettle, here are some tips to get the most value:

• Only boil the water you need: Overfilling wastes energy. Use the minimum markings inside the kettle.
• Descale regularly: Limescale buildup reduces efficiency. Clean your kettle every 1–2 months with vinegar or a descaling solution.
• Use the right temperature: Don’t boil water for green tea at 100°C. Use lower settings to save energy.
• Unplug when not in use: Even when off, some kettles draw a small amount of standby power.
• Choose an energy-efficient model: Look for kettles with good insulation and fast boil times.

Conclusion: Is an Electric Kettle Cheaper Than Gas?

So, is an electric kettle cheaper than gas? The short answer is: yes, for most people, most of the time.

While gas may have a lower cost per unit of energy, its inefficiency means you end up using more of it to boil the same amount of water. Electric kettles, with their direct heating and automatic shut-off, use energy more wisely. Over time, this translates into real savings—especially for households that boil water multiple times a day.

Beyond cost, electric kettles offer faster boiling, greater safety, and a lower environmental impact. With features like temperature control and keep-warm functions, they’re also more convenient and versatile.

Of course, individual circumstances vary. If you rarely boil water or live in an area with unusually cheap gas, the difference might be small. But for the average household, switching to an electric kettle is a smart, money-saving move.

In a world where energy prices are rising and sustainability matters, small changes in our daily habits can make a big difference. Boiling water might seem like a minor task, but choosing the right tool can save you money, time, and energy—one cup at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an electric kettle cheaper to run than a gas stove?

Yes, in most cases. Electric kettles are more energy-efficient and boil water faster, which reduces overall energy use. Even though electricity is more expensive per unit than gas, the efficiency of electric kettles usually makes them cheaper to run.

How much money can I save by using an electric kettle?

Depending on usage, you can save £15–£40 per year. Heavy users (5+ boils per day) save the most, while light users see smaller savings. The upfront cost of the kettle is typically paid back within 1–2 years.

Are electric kettles bad for the environment?

Not necessarily. While electricity can produce emissions, electric kettles are so efficient that their total carbon footprint is often lower than gas. If your electricity comes from renewable sources, the environmental impact is minimal.

Can I use an electric kettle during a power outage?

No, electric kettles require electricity to function. If you need to boil water during a blackout, a gas stove (with manual ignition) or a camping stove may be better options.

Do electric kettles use a lot of electricity?

No. A typical electric kettle uses about 0.1 kWh per boil, which costs just a few pence. This is far less than many other kitchen appliances, like ovens or microwaves.

Is it safe to leave an electric kettle on?

Most modern electric kettles have automatic shut-off and boil-dry protection, making them very safe. However, it’s still best to unplug them when not in use and never leave them unattended while boiling.