The old saying ‘now you’re cooking with gas’ dates back to last century when gas appliances were the peak of modernity. Today, electric induction cooking is leaving gas behind. It’s faster, more efficient and safer.

Induction cooktops heat quickly and efficiently without an open flame, which reduces indoor air pollution linked to gas combustion. This reduces exposure to harmful pollutants like nitrogen dioxide, improving respiratory health.

Electric appliances also keep kitchens cooler, as less excess heat escapes into the room, making cooking more comfortable in the warmer months.

‘No gas smell’

Glen Iris local Carolyn made the switch to an induction cooktop nearly a year ago to live a cleaner and more eco-friendly lifestyle.

‘We’ve got solar panels, and now the induction, and we’re getting heat pump hot water installed. I think if everyone does their bit, hopefully it makes a huge difference.’

The main benefit, according to Carolyn, is no more gas smells or toxins while cooking. ‘I didn’t think I could smell gas, but that’s the first thing I noticed once we got the induction – no gas smell.’

She says the induction cooktop is easy to use and requires no adjustment. ‘It’s intuitive and so easy to clean.’

Give it a try

Boroondara library members can borrow a portable induction cooktop from their local branch to try out. This is a great, commitment-free way to see how it works. Find out more on our Save energy in your home page.

Want to see induction in action?

Come along to the 2026 Electrify Your Life Expo at Hawthorn Arts Centre on Sunday 11 October to learn more from experts and locals who’ve made the switch. Find out more: electrifyboroondara.org/expo26

Your induction cooktop questions answered

Do I really need special cookware?

Chances are your existing pots and pans will work fine. Induction cooktops work through electromagnetism, heating the cookware itself rather than using a flame or element. So your cookware needs to be made from a magnetic metal like cast iron or stainless steel to work. Check your pots and pans by holding a fridge magnet to the base – if it sticks, you’re good to go.

How much does it cost to switch?

Costs vary depending on the price of the induction cooktop (ranging from $50 for a portable single ‘burner’, up to $5,000-plus for high-end cooktops and ovens). Keep installation costs in mind too, including any electrical wiring or switchboard upgrades and fees to cap your gas connection.

I’m keen to get off gas but can’t afford to upgrade. What can I use instead?

There are many cheap electric options that don’t need to be installed and can be connected to a regular power point.

Portable induction cooktop: Cheap and easy to use, these are a great way to avoid gas without spending much.

Air fryer: These can be used for a huge range of cooking tasks you’d normally use an oven for.

Slow cooker: These save energy, are great if you’re short on time and perfect for batch cooking.

Microwave: Often overlooked but uses far less energy than a gas oven for reheating and many cooking tasks.

Electric kettle: If you currently boil water on your gas stove, swapping to a kettle is a simple and low-cost switch.