How Much Does It Cost to Convert a Gas Cooktop to Induction in Melbourne?
Thinking about switching from gas cooking to electric or induction? In Melbourne homes, the total cost usually sits between $2,000 and $8,000. That price covers the new cooktop, installation, gas disconnection, and any electrical or kitchen upgrades needed along the way.
It’s a decent upfront investment, which is why many homeowners pause before making the move. But if you are already asking how much it costs to convert a gas cooktop to electric, chances are you have noticed that gas is no longer the “cheap” option it once was. Gas prices have doubled over the past decade, and gas cooktops only operate at around 40 to 50 percent efficiency. Induction cooktops, on the other hand, are more than 90 percent efficient.
When you look at the long term costs, both options end up costing a similar amount to run.
So the real question becomes this.
Why stick with gas when electric cooking is safer, cleaner, and eligible for rebates?
In this guide, we will walk you through the real costs, who does what during the conversion, and whether switching to induction actually makes sense for Melbourne homes. Our licensed electricians have over 10 years of local experience, and this advice is practical, honest, and based on real jobs we complete every week.
Let’s start with the basics.
Can You Convert a Gas Cooktop to Electric or Induction?
Yes, converting a gas cooktop to electric or induction is safe and very common in Melbourne. The key is choosing licensed trades who understand Victorian building and electrical regulations.
Here is how the conversion usually works:
A licensed plumber or gas fitter disconnects and caps the gas line
A licensed electrician installs the new electric or induction cooktop
A handyman or stonemason adjusts the benchtop if the cut-out needs modifying
In some homes, the electrical side of the job is more involved. We may need to upgrade your switchboard or install a new dedicated circuit to handle the added electrical load and prevent circuit breaker tripping.
If organising multiple tradies sounds like a headache, don’t worry. At AJD Electrical Solutions, we coordinate everything for you. One point of contact, one smooth job, no running around.
Now, let’s break down the actual costs.
Cost Breakdown From Gas Cooktop to Induction
Below is a general guide to the expenses involved when switching from gas to electric cooking in Melbourne.
Gas line disconnection and capping
$250 to $400, depending on the gas fitter’s rates
Electrical work
$500 to $2,000 depending on switchboard upgrades, new circuits, and installation requirements
New cooktop
$500 to $5,000 depending on brand and features
Cabinet or benchtop modifications
Around $500 if required
Estimated total cost
$2,000 to $8,000 before rebates
Every home is different, which is why we always recommend an on-site inspection before giving a final price.
When Costs Increase With Older Switchboards and Upgrades
Around 60 to 70 percent of the work involved in converting gas to electric cooking is electrical. That means the condition of your existing electrical system plays a big role in the final cost.
If your home has an older switchboard, we may need to replace it so it can safely handle the extra load.
Larger induction cooktops sometimes require three-phase power instead of single-phase to avoid nuisance tripping and reduce fire risk. In older homes, additional wiring through walls, ceilings, or floors may also be needed to reach the switchboard.
So when people ask how much it costs to convert a gas cooktop to electric, the honest answer is that it depends on what upgrades your home needs to stay safe and compliant.
Is It Expensive to Convert From Gas to Electric?
Not necessarily. If you are working with a tighter budget, choosing a basic induction or electric cooktop in the $1,000 to $1,500 range can keep the total conversion cost closer to $2,500.
While $2,500 can feel like a big spend upfront, many homeowners recover that cost within three to five years through rebates and lower energy bills.
Upfront Cost vs Long Term Value
If the initial cost feels high, it helps to look at what you gain long term.
No risk of gas leaks
No open flame, which causes over 50 percent of household fires
Cool-to-touch induction surfaces that reduce burn risk
Faster cooking times, often up to 50 percent quicker
More precise temperature control
These benefits add up, especially for families and busy households.
Running Costs: Electric vs Gas Cooktops
For a household of two, running an electric or induction cooktop typically costs around $150 per year, while gas cooking costs closer to $180 per year based on 2025 prices.
Gas may look slightly cheaper today, but gas prices continue to rise every year. Electricity is more stable, greener, and far more efficient. If you have solar panels, the running cost drops even further.
Because induction cooktops waste very little energy, you also save time in the kitchen, which is a bonus most people don’t expect.
Is It Hard to Convert a Gas Stove to Electric or Induction?
In most cases, no. Homes built after 2000 usually have modern wiring and switchboards, making the conversion straightforward. Older homes may need upgrades, but the process is still very manageable.
That said, this is not a DIY job. Electrical upgrades, cabling, and gas disconnections must be done by licensed and insured tradespeople. Doing it incorrectly can breach Victorian regulations, lead to hefty fines, and put your family at risk.
Typical Timeline and Disruption
Most gas to induction conversions can be completed within one day. Heritage homes or properties needing major upgrades may take longer.
To keep things running smoothly, we ask homeowners to clear cupboards above the cooktop and have the new appliance ready. We handle the coordination with other trades and aim to have your kitchen usable again by the evening.
Power will need to be switched off temporarily, but not for the entire day.
Is It Worth Switching From Gas to Electric in Melbourne?
For most households, yes. Here’s why Melbourne homeowners are making the switch:
Long term cost savings as gas prices continue to rise
Easy integration with solar power
No open flames and lower fire risk
No carbon monoxide exposure
Faster boiling and cooking
Better temperature control
Safer for children with auto shut-off features
How AJD Electrical Solutions Handles Your Cooktop Conversion
We start with a free on-site inspection to assess your electrical setup, gas connection, and kitchen layout. If you haven’t chosen a cooktop yet, we help you compare options and understand what features actually matter.
Once everything is confirmed, we schedule the job, coordinate all trades, complete the work, and clean up afterward. Before we leave, we test the cooktop and walk you through how it works.
And if you have questions later, you can always give us a call.
FAQs About Converting Gas Cooktops to Electric or Induction
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Yes, but you will need approval from your building manager or owners corporation first.
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In most homes, yes. It is usually a one-day job unless major upgrades are required.
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Induction cooktops typically need a 32 to 40 amp dedicated circuit with RCD protection. Homes built after 2000 often already have this. If not, we can upgrade it.
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Yes, hybrid setups are possible. We usually recommend this only if you genuinely need both appliances.
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One week is ideal so we can coordinate all trades. If you need it sooner, give us a call and we will do our best.
Ready to Upgrade From Gas to Electric Cooking?
Still unsure about how much it costs to convert a gas cooktop to electric?
Give us a call for a free consultation. As your local Melbourne electricians with over 10 years of experience, we are always happy to chat, answer questions, and help you decide what’s right for your home.