Rental kitchens come in gas stovetop and induction cooker versions. We provide a thorough comparison from multiple perspectives—whether you can bring your own equipment, utility cost differences, fire risk, and cooking convenience—to help you find the best choice for your lifestyle.
Reviewed by: Nobuyuki MoriPresident, M-Assets Co., Ltd. / Licensed Real Estate Transaction Specialist (Miyagi #018212)
When choosing kitchen equipment for a rental property, the difference between gas stovetop and induction cooker (IH cooking heater) options significantly impacts your life after moving. Since many properties come with equipment already fixed in place, it's important to understand which works best for you before selecting a property.
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This article compares both options across four key dimensions: utility costs, safety, cooking performance, and rules for bringing your own equipment.
A gas stovetop heats pots using an open flame. There are two types: city gas and propane gas (LPG), and which one works depends on the property's gas infrastructure.
Advantages: High heat output makes it ideal for stir-frying in woks and skillets. It works even during power outages, providing peace of mind during emergencies. It's compatible with a wide variety of cookware (iron, aluminum, copper, etc.) and is the preferred method for professional chefs.
Disadvantages: Using an open flame carries fire and gas leak risks. Cleaning around the grill and gas pipes is time-consuming, and poor ventilation can pose a carbon monoxide poisoning risk. Properties with propane gas also tend to have higher rates than those with city gas.
Bringing Your Own Equipment: Properties with gas stovetops generally allow you to bring a portable gas stovetop. However, you must check the gas hose specifications (for city gas or propane) and choose one compatible with your property. Since proper installation is required, contact your gas company if you're unsure about the process.
An induction (IH) cooker uses electromagnetic induction to heat the cookware itself. In recent years, induction-equipped properties have become increasingly common, especially in new construction and renovated units.
Advantages: With no open flame, fire risk is minimal, making it ideal for families with children or seniors. The flat cooktop is extremely easy to clean and never gets filter clogs. It offers good energy efficiency, works well with all-electric properties, and you can optimize utility costs by adjusting your electricity plan or amperage.
Disadvantages: You need induction-compatible cookware (stainless steel or iron that responds to magnetic fields); aluminum and copper won't work. If your existing pots aren't compatible, you'll need to purchase new cookware. Some cooks also find that precise heat control requires an adjustment period.
Bringing Your Own Equipment: If you want to bring an additional portable induction cooker to a property with built-in induction, check the electrical capacity (amperage). Standard single-phase 100V induction cookers usually won't be an issue, but replacing with a 200V built-in induction unit requires management approval. Installing an induction cooker in a gas-equipped property is technically possible, but you must confirm with management about deactivating the gas line and other details.
Whether gas or induction is cheaper depends on the following factors.
City Gas vs. Electricity (Induction): City gas typically has a slightly lower per-unit cooking rate than induction. However, this gap narrows depending on your electricity provider and plan. For single-person households with average cooking frequency, the monthly difference is roughly ¥500–¥1,000.
Propane Gas vs. Electricity (Induction): Propane is more expensive than city gas, so induction often provides better utility cost savings. If you live in a propane-equipped property, switching to an induction cooker alone might reduce your gas bills (though be mindful of other gas-using appliances like water heaters and heating systems).
Gas Stovetops: Automatic shutoff sensors have been mandatory on all units since 2008, so modern equipment offers significantly improved safety. However, older properties may still have older equipment, so it's important to check whether safety features are present.
Induction Cookers: With no open flame, there's no ignition risk, and the cooktop only heats through contact with cookware. This is especially valued for safety in households with young children. However, if you have a pacemaker, you should exercise caution when standing near an induction cooker (consult your doctor for specific guidance).
When viewing a rental property, make sure to check these points:
First, confirm the kitchen equipment type (gas stovetop, built-in induction, propane/city gas). Next, if you want to use induction in a gas-equipped property or bring gas equipment to an induction property, confirm in advance whether management approval is required. Also check your electrical amperage (particularly whether 200V induction installation is possible) and your ventilation hood specifications (whether there's a range hood above the gas stovetop).
Choosing between gas and induction depends on your cooking style, lifestyle, and priorities regarding utility costs. Gas is better for those who cook frequently with high heat, while induction suits those who prioritize cleanliness, safety, and all-electric living. Confirming kitchen equipment details during the property selection stage—including whether you can bring your own equipment—will help prevent future issues with management.
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