Find an energy-efficient range

Energy-Efficient & ENERGY STAR Commercial Ranges

Commercial ranges are versatile appliances that consume an average amount of energy in relation to other kitchen equipment. While ranges use less energy than large refrigeration systems or HVAC equipment, daily use can still result in significant power consumption. Operators can minimize utility costs and still maintain strong output by purchasing energy-efficient ranges, using best cooking practices, and regularly servicing equipment.

Efficient Power Options: Gas, Electric, or Induction?

Commercial appliance energy consumption is typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) for electric units and therms (thm) for gas models. 1 kilowatt-hour equals 1,000 watts used for an hour, while a therm equals 100,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Understanding how your utility company charges for kWh or therms will help you estimate operational costs when comparing equipment types.

Gas ranges are popular in commercial kitchens for precise control and responsive heat. However, they're not as energy efficient as electric alternatives. Gas ranges generally operate at 35- to 45-percent efficiency, meaning a significant portion of heat escapes into the surrounding air.

While electricity is typically more expensive than gas, electric ranges operate at 65- to 75-percent efficiency. Electric elements transfer heat directly to cookware, so less energy is wasted and the environment stays cooler.

Induction ranges are the most energy-efficient option, operating at 85- to 90-percent efficiency. Induction hobs power electromagnetic fields to heat the cookware itself, not the cooking surface. This results in faster heat-up times, reduced ambient heat, and lower overall energy consumption.

When comparing heating sources, consider local utility costs, installation, and ventilation requirements, and long-term operational expenses. Energy-efficient options like induction may cost more at the outset, but they will likely reduce power costs in the long run.

vollrath induction cooktop on counter cooking eggs

Vollrath one-hob induction cooktop

Look for ENERGY STAR-Certified Appliances

ENERGY STAR is a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program that helps homes and businesses preserve the environment and reduce operating costs. Commercial equipment that meets strict energy-saving standards can earn ENERGY STAR certification and may be eligible for local rebates.

Qualifying ranges include induction cooktops or the most energy-efficient electric stoves. Many commercial griddles carry ENERGY STAR ratings. Most traditional gas and electric ranges don't qualify for ENERGY STAR.

To be ENERGY STAR eligible, commercial cooktops must meet a minimum cooking efficiency of 80 percent and include an eligible oven base.1 Range ovens require a similar efficiency rate and a low idle energy usage relative to size and fuel type.2

How to Maintain Efficient Commercial Stoves

Common Commercial Range Energy Drains

  • Keeping ovens idle for long periods
  • Standing pilot lights continuously consume gas
  • Improperly adjusted pilot lights or burners
  • Charbroilers and salamanders are among the highest energy-consuming range features3
  • Damaged door gaskets or misaligned oven doors let heat escape
  • Clogged burners reduce combustion efficiency

Best Practices for Efficient Range Usage

  • Diminish idle time by turning off equipment when not in use
  • Maintain burners by cleaning ports to ensure even flame distribution
  • Maintain oven doors by replacing worn gaskets and checking alignment
  • Fully load ovens when possible to maximize output per cycle
  • Use lids on pots and pans to retain heat and reduce cook times
  • Check ignition systems to ensure burners ignite quickly and reliably
  • Calibrate pilots and burners to maintain proper flame size and avoid excessive gas consumption
  • Replace worn knobs to prevent accidental activation or improper shutoff

Find Energy-Efficient Ranges at KaTom

KaTom offers a broad catalog of electric ranges and induction cooktops for efficient cooking. For extra savings, browse ENERGY STAR induction cooktops and commercial griddles. Switching to these energy-efficient cooking appliances and making small tweaks to operation processes can result in major energy savings over time.

References

  1. Commercial Cooktops. ENERGY STAR. Accessed Feb 2026.
  2. Commercial Ovens. ENERGY STAR. Accessed Feb 2026.
  3. Energy Reduction in Commercial Kitchens. Denis Livchak, San Francisco Institute of Architecture. Accessed Feb 2026