As an owner in a strata property, you have the power to make meaningful changes to your own unit. One area where you can significantly improve the health and safety of your home is by transitioning from gas to induction cooking. There are heaps of benefits that come from making this switch but also things to consider as a member of a Strata Company.
Health Concerns Associated with Gas Cooking
Gas cooking, although still popular, has been known to introduce harmful pollutants into the air, which can compromise indoor air quality and pose health risks. By using induction cooking, you can eliminate these concerns. Induction cooktops operate through electricity and generate a magnetic field to heat the cookware directly, avoiding the release of harmful combustion byproducts.
The Benefits of Induction Cooking:
- Improved Indoor Air Quality:
Switching to induction cooking enhances indoor air quality in your strata property. Without the combustion process of gas stoves, induction cooktops eliminate the emission of pollutants such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, providing cleaner and healthier air for you and your household. - Energy Efficiency:
Induction cooktops are renowned for their energy efficiency. They directly heat the cookware, reducing energy wastage and minimizing heat loss. This translates into cost savings on your energy bills and contributes to the overall sustainability of your strata property. - Safety:
Induction cooktops offer enhanced safety features compared to gas stoves. The cooktop surface remains cool to the touch, significantly reducing the risk of burns or accidental fires. Additionally, induction cooktops feature built-in safety mechanisms that automatically turn off the heat when the cookware is removed, providing added peace of mind.
Things to consider before making the switch:
- Power Supply:
Before switching to induction cooking, assess the power supply available in your strata property. Arrange an electrician to check if your unit has a single-phase or three-phase power system. Induction cooktops typically require a three-phase power supply. Have a chat to the Council of the Strata Company or strata manager if you want to explore an upgrade in the power supply for your unit. There might be other benefits to having the power supply reviewed, such as electric vehicle charging, air conditioner load issues and asbestos in the switchboards, which means while it could be a big change just for a cook top there are other factors that make it is a worthwhile project. - Communicating with the Council of the Strata Company:
When considering significant changes to your unit, such as transitioning to induction cooking, it is important to communicate and seek approval from the strata council. Prepare a well-structured proposal outlining the health benefits, energy efficiency, and safety features of induction cooking. Emphasize the positive impact this change can have on the overall well-being of the strata property. Address any concerns the strata council may have and be open to their input or suggestions.
By making the switch from gas to induction cooking in your strata property, you can create a healthier, safer, and more cost-efficient living environment. Improved indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and enhanced safety features are among the many advantages of induction cooktops. Consider the power supply available, check cookware compatibility, and engage in effective communication with the strata council. Embrace the opportunity to make a positive change for your well-being and contribute to the overall sustainability of your strata property with the support and approval of the council of the strata company.
Click here to read more on Sustainability in Strata.