Make Your Kitchen Safer by Saying Goodbye to Gas Stoves!
By Ayla Frost, CCAN DC Organizer
Walking into your kitchen and taking a deep breath should mean peace of mind, knowing the air is safe for you and your family. But the reality is that gas stoves — even when switched off — can slowly leak methane, a powerful greenhouse gas linked to increased risks of asthma and lung irritation. If you’re considering an upgrade, here’s some good news: switching to an electric or induction stove is simpler — and more rewarding — than you might think.
You May Qualify for Free Upgrades!
Are you a D.C. resident? The D.C. Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU) offers FREE electrical upgrades for eligible households. If you are eligible, you can get not only a free electric stove, but also a new, clean, and energy-efficient heat pump for heating and cooling, a water heater, a clothes dryer, and more.
If you’re not eligible for free upgrades, you can still make the switch and even apply for rebates from DCSEU.
Wondering How to Make the Switch?
Step 1: Learn about different electric stoves
Electric stoves come in many forms. For the most efficient heating technology, induction stoves are the way to go, but any electric stove is healthier than burning methane gas inside your home. To make your kitchen healthier without spending a bundle, you can also use an induction hot plate, a countertop oven, or an air fryer to cook without removing your gas stove.
Step 2: Assess your electrical wiring
If you currently have an electric stove, you probably don’t need to upgrade your wiring. To switch from a gas stove to an electric one, you may need to upgrade your electrical panel. After the panel is upgraded, a plumber or electrician will help you cap the gas line. When you pick out your stove, talk to your electrician to make sure the stove plug will match your newly installed 240V plug.
Step 3: Check your current pots and pans
If you decide to upgrade to an induction stove or cooktop, which uses magnetism to create heat, you may need to check your cookware. You can test your pots and pans using a magnet: if a magnet sticks to the bottom of your pots and pans, you’re good to go! Iron and steel cookware are great options for induction cooking!
Step 4: Select your new stove!
In the District, the DC Sustainable Energy Utility offers up to $800 in rebates to help you pay for your new electric stove. If you want a DCSEU rebate, make sure to buy from a DCSEU-approved supplier. After it’s installed, enjoy your efficient, healthy, and easy-to-clean new stove!
Want to Make a Larger Impact? Volunteer with Us!
Chesapeake Climate Action Network is a regional grassroots climate action group. We are building a people-powered movement for bold and just solutions to climate change – from enhancing access to clean energy to stopping dirty pipe investments. And we want you to join us!
Sound good to you? Click here to meet with an organizer to learn about how you can become involved with our volunteer team fighting for climate action in DC and beyond.
About the author: Ayla Frost (she/her) joined CCAN in January 2024 as DC Intern, and has worked as a full-time DC Organizer since September 2024. Ayla grew up in Oakland, California, but her childhood was marked by frequent trips to family in Baltimore, Maryland.
Over time, she developed a deep fondness for both of the bays in her life – the San Francisco Bay and the Chesapeake Bay – and became determined to do what she could to protect the natural world. As she learned more about the climate sphere, her real passion in the climate world was listening, connecting with, and uplifting the voices of people.
