In the pursuit of a more reliable and efficient cooking experience aboard our boat, we recently embarked on the journey of converting our propane galley to electric appliances. After years of struggling with a propane oven and cook top range that proved inconsistent and challenging to control, we decided it was time for a change. In this blog post, we’ll share our experiences and insights as we transitioned to an electric galley, incorporating an induction cook top and electric air fryer oven. Additionally, we’ll delve into the necessary modifications and considerations for sailing with these new appliances.
Problems with Propane
When we initially installed the Force 10 propane oven and cook top range, we had high hopes for its performance. However, over time, we discovered its limitations and drawbacks. One of the major issues we encountered was the difficulty in achieving and maintaining precise temperature control. Propane appliances often lack consistency, making it challenging to dial in the desired temperature for cooking. This inconsistency led to frustration and compromised the quality of our culinary endeavors. We’ve also heard that propane is not readily available worldwide. Also, The type of propane fittings used here in the US may not be adaptable in other countries. Some sailors have resorted to filling their propane tanks through a gravity feed system. This seems a bit complicated, potentially not completely safe and not something we want to hassle with.
The Electric Alternative
In search of a more reliable and user-friendly solution, we opted to explore electric appliances for our galley. We decided to test an induction cook top and an electric air fryer oven. These appliances not only offered superior temperature control but also consumed less power, making them well-suited for our boat’s electrical system.
Benefits of Induction Cook tops: Induction cook tops rely on magnetic fields to heat the cookware directly, resulting in faster and more precise temperature adjustments. They offer several advantages over propane cook tops, including:
- Instant heat control: Induction cook tops respond quickly to changes in temperature settings, allowing for precise cooking adjustments. This feature greatly enhances the cooking experience and improves the quality of meals prepared on board.
- Energy efficiency: Induction cook tops convert nearly all the supplied energy into heat, reducing wasted energy and making them more efficient than propane alternatives. This efficiency is particularly beneficial when operating on limited power sources, such as batteries or generators.
Exploring Electric Air Fryer Ovens: To replace our propane oven, we turned to an electric air fryer oven. These versatile appliances offer a range of cooking functions, including baking, roasting, and air frying, all while consuming minimal energy. With precise temperature control and efficient cooking capabilities, electric air fryer ovens are a fantastic addition to any galley.
Modifications and Considerations
Switching from propane to electric required some modifications to our galley setup. We had to remove the old Force 10 propane range and build a new box to accommodate the induction appliances. Additionally, to ensure stability during sailing, we incorporated gimbals into the design, allowing the galley box to swing and remain level even when the boat is in motion. We added rails for pot holders along the sides of the cook top. We got them from Scan Marine and had to modify them slightly so they will slide along the rails without scratching the glass cook top. And they’re adjustable to accommodate various sizes of pots and pans.
Transitioning from propane appliances to electric in our galley has been a transformative experience. The induction cook top and electric air fryer oven have provided us with enhanced control over cooking temperatures and improved energy efficiency. Through the necessary modifications and the addition of gimbals for sailing, we’ve successfully adapted our galley to meet our evolving needs. Whether you’re a fellow boater or simply seeking a more reliable and efficient cooking solution, considering the switch from propane to electric appliances may be a game-changer for your culinary adventures.
Rich you are amazing. Great videos