How to choose between electric, gas and dual fuel cookers

It's nearly November, autumn is in full swing and it's time to thaw your frozen fingers with the comforts of hot, homemade food. Summer salads eaten al fresco are now a fading memory and now is the time of year many of us choose to update our aging cooker appliances. Not least to avoid turkey disasters on Christmas day.

So what are you looking for? Electric, duel fuel or gas? Here are some helpful tips to help you choose:

Tip for choosing gas cookers
If you're looking for a gas cooker remember it will have to be fitted by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Look for models with a safety cut out so that the gas automatically goes off if the flame is extinguished.

Also, some models come with glass lids which when placed over the hob offer another surface for preparation, and stop you (or your wayward pets) turning on the gas by accidentally learning on it. Stay clean liners are a great option for easy cleaning in gas cookers, they burn off any baked on food while the cooker is in use.

Looking for dual fuel cookers?
Duel fuel cookers also need to be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Look for all the same features as on gas cookers (e.g. automatic safety cut off) but remember the electric oven also offers a fan element to speed cooking.

Electric cookers
For electric cookers Gas Safe registered engineer aren't required in the installation process but remember they don't just plug in to a normal plug socket. You may need an electrician to wire in the cooker. They offer fast fan cooking and increased safety because the possibility of a gas leak or gas being left on is completely eliminated.
Electric ceramic hobs are much easier to clean than other hobs but they are also less reactive. Gas hobs offer immediate heat.
I hope I've given you some food for thought while you're looking for your new cooking appliance. I can almost smell the hot, warming stews!