Switching from a gas stove to induction: costs, wiring and rebates
Induction sends about 85% of its heat into the pan, versus about a third for gas. Here is what the switch involves in a California kitchen.
A gas burner wastes most of its heat into the kitchen. ENERGY STAR says induction cooktops transfer about 85% of their heating energy to what is in the pan, compared with only about a third for gas. That difference is why induction feels fast and why the kitchen stays cooler on a hot evening.
How it works. Induction uses electromagnetic energy to heat the pan itself. The glass surface warms only from contact with the hot pan, so ENERGY STAR notes it will not be hot to the touch without a pot in place. That is a real safety plus in homes with kids. ENERGY STAR also says boiling water can take nearly half the time compared with gas, radiant or coil burners.
The cookware question. Many people worry they will have to replace every pot they own. Try the magnet test: if a magnet sticks firmly to the bottom of a pan, it will work. ENERGY STAR lists cast iron, stainless steel and enameled cast iron as compatible. Aluminum, copper and glass usually do not work unless the base is magnetic.
The wiring question. A full-size induction range generally needs a 240-volt outlet on a 40 to 50 amp circuit, the same type an electric dryer uses. If your kitchen has only a gas line and a standard outlet, an electrician will need to add a circuit. Whether your panel has room for it depends on your home. If you are also planning a heat pump or EV charger, ask the electrician to look at all of them at once so you do not pay for two panel visits.
What it costs to run. Running costs depend on your electric and gas rates and how often you cook. Because induction sends so much more of its energy into the food, it uses fewer units of energy for the same meal. Whether that saves money on your bill depends on your local prices, so compare your own utility's rates before assuming either way.
Rebates in California. Amounts vary widely by utility and community energy provider, and they change often. For example, Copper's rebate list shows SMUD at $750 when switching from gas and $100 from electric, Silicon Valley Clean Energy at up to $500, Roseville at $600, Healdsburg at $500 and Pasadena at $200 for a new electric range. Confirm the current amount and rules on your provider's own website before you buy, since programs can close or change without much notice.
Before you switch, step by step. Step 1: Run the magnet test on the pans you use most. Step 2: Search your utility's and community energy provider's rebate pages for induction or electric range. Step 3: Have an electrician check whether your panel can handle a new range circuit, and get a written quote. Step 4: Ask how the gas line will be capped safely. Step 5: Read the rebate rules before buying, since some require pre-approval or proof that you removed a gas appliance.
Today's step: grab a fridge magnet and test your three favorite pans. Rebate amounts above were checked October 5, 2026.
Sources
Facts were checked against these sources when the post was written. Details can change, so check them for the latest.