The Right Thing

In my continuing effort to decrease my carbon footprint, I switched my gas stove for an electric one. I’ve heard some say convincing people to part with their gas stove can be a tougher sell than moving from a gas to electric powered vehicle. I admit I’ll miss the gas cooktop, particularly the griddle burner, but will adjust because it’s the right thing to do.

I thought the practicalities around the change would be easier, but turns out I had to use some patience and persistence to get this done. The delivery was set and I looked forward to using the electric range, but when the delivery crew pulled the gas stove away from the wall, they advised the outlet wouldn’t support an electric stove. So, the electric stove was left in my living room, I called an electrician, and 2 weeks later an outlet fit for an electric stove was installed. I called the delivery place to have them come back to disconnect the gas and switch the stoves and, although they previously assured me they’d take care of the gas disconnection, they advised they didn’t touch gas and I’d have to call their customer service to schedule with a third party. Customer service said I had to call the local utility company, and the utility company said I had to call a contractor or plumber. I found a plumber, who disconnected the gas and turned the line off in short order, and the stoves were switched. I then discovered my cookware may not work on the electric induction cooktop but ultimately confirmed after boiling water in one of the pots that it’s good to go and I don’t need to buy new pots after all. That’s a relief.

Making this switch ended up costing more than anticipated because of the additional expenses for an electrician and plumber, and taking more time than originally planned, but at least it’s now done. I have to say it was disheartening to see so many gas ranges for sale in the stores and hearing all the people who played a role in switching out the appliances say that most people are changing from electric to gas. The time is now to reverse that trend. Go electric!