“Home is a place you grow up wanting to leave, and grow old wanting to get back to” John Pearce
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What fuel for the Kitchen?
Apparently Gas Ovens bake better cakes ! That over, here we go......
In some ways the above is true. Personal taste comes in for the person doing the cooking. Gas is more instant compared to electricity and solid fuel, but some people are wary of it.
If going for a Gas Oven, free standing ovens start at around £160. But at this price you're going pretty basic and it would be worth the extra £100 or so to buy one with an electric oven fan, thus making cooking a lot quicker and saving your bills.
For larger families and the more 'Gourmet' chef, a Range style may be a good option. These start in both gas and electric at around £400.
The same applies to electric, the prices are about the same and buying cheap doesn't mean it's cheaper in the long run.
With so much competition in fuel prices, it's a good idea to shop around for the 'combination Gas and Electric' deals. There isn't much difference (as I write) between the actual running costs, but having a combination will certainly save you money and you can change from company to company if your contract allows.
With solid fuel, the only drawback is the initial outlay. A good Rayburn or Aga is going to kick off at around £2 - £2,500.
I have an old Rayburn which I inherited. We use it for all our slow cooking, casseroles, soups, constant hot water (washing up - turn the boiler off). From October through to April, the 'solid fuel eggs' set us back about £150 and this is supplemented by wood which I collect from the neighbouring fields and woods.
Of course, you can have an Aga or Rayburn fired by gas if you can afford it. Plus be able to say "It's cooking on the Aga" !!
Look for money saving by buying on the Internet
Low running costs - Solid fuel is efficient and economic in the heating of your home 24 hours a day.
The healthier option - Solid fuel heating can greatly reduce condensation, along with the associated mould often associated with 'on/off' fires. There is some medical research to suggest that solid fuel reduces hay fever.
Homes with solid fuel heating are better ventilated than those with other forms of heating.Having a chimney (that's 'open' allows air to circulate better).
Wide range of fuels - From coal to smokeless, there’s a solid fuel to suit your appliance in all parts of the country (plus gathered wood if suitable and safe. Ask manufacturers advice).
Cost effectiveness, saving money, reducing expenditure in the home and at play
