LPG options

Many cooks prefer gas because it gives instant heat control and the flame shows how hot the burner will be. It's also great for wok cooking. But parts of the country don't have a piped-in natural gas supply.

Even where gas is an option, getting connected can be very expensive.

The alternative is liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which can be supplied in twin 45kg bottles attached to the outside of the house and reticulated inside.

If you use gas only for your cooktop, the most cost effective option is to hook it up to a small 9kg cylinder, installed either outside the house, which is preferable, or in a cupboard next to the cooktop. When the gas runs out, you can get it refilled at a service station.

If the cylinder is installed inside it's very important that the cupboard is adequately vented to the outside and that there are no electrical sockets or switches inside the cupboard. The hose and fittings must be LPG-approved. Brush a solution of water and dishwashing liquid on the connections each time you reconnect the cylinder after refilling. If bubbles appear, LPG is leaking.

If you're likely to want to change fuels, say from natural gas to LPG, check whether the model you're interested in can be converted after purchase. A licensed gasfitter must perform the conversion for you.