Can You Convert Gas Aga to Electric? The Real Answer

Yes, you can convert your gas Aga to electric, and it's becoming one of the most popular upgrades we see. With gas prices climbing and many owners tired of the constant heat, electric conversion offers real control over temperature and timing while slashing those eye-watering energy bills.

The conversion typically takes 1-2 days and costs between £3,500-£6,000 depending on your model and chosen system. Most gas Agas can be converted without major structural changes to your kitchen.

Why Convert Your Gas Aga to Electric?

The numbers speak for themselves. A traditional gas Aga costs around £30-40 per week to run constantly. An electric conversion drops that to £8-15 weekly, and you only pay when you're actually cooking.

Beyond the savings, you get proper temperature control. No more sweltering kitchens in summer or waiting hours for heat-up after maintenance. Electric Agas reach cooking temperature in 30-45 minutes and cool down just as quickly.

We've removed hundreds of gas Agas over the years, and running costs are always the main complaint. If you're wondering are Agas expensive to run, the traditional gas models certainly are.

What Conversion Options Are Available?

ElectricKit conversions are the most common choice. These retrofit systems replace your gas burners with electric elements while keeping your existing Aga body and lids. The Classic version gives you simple on/off control, while the Advanced adds programmable timers and individual hotplate controls.

eControl systems go further with app control, allowing you to heat specific ovens or hotplates from your phone. Perfect if you want dinner ready when you walk in but don't want to heat the whole cooker all day.

Some older Agas suit the AIMS system better, which works with pre-1974 models that other conversions can't handle. Each system has different power requirements, typically needing a 32-amp or 40-amp supply.

How Does the Conversion Process Work?

First, an approved engineer surveys your Aga to confirm it's suitable for conversion. They'll check the model, age, condition and your electrical supply. Most post-1970s gas Agas convert easily, though some very old models need extra work.

The actual conversion involves:

• Disconnecting and capping the gas supply

• Removing gas burners and controls

• Installing electric elements and new control systems

• Fitting insulation upgrades to improve efficiency

• Testing and commissioning the new system

Your existing flue stays in place but no longer vents combustion gases. Some conversions add a small extractor fan for cooking steam, but it's much quieter than traditional cooker hoods.

What About Running Costs and Performance?

Electric Agas use about 20-30kWh per day for normal family cooking, compared to the 50-60kWh equivalent of constantly-running gas models. At current electricity rates, that's roughly £6-9 daily when in use.

The clever bit is you're not paying overnight or when you're out. Programme it to heat for breakfast, switch off during the day, then fire up for evening cooking. Some owners report 70% savings compared to their old gas bills.

Cooking performance matches traditional Agas once up to temperature. The ovens hold heat just as well, and many conversions actually improve temperature stability. You lose that always-ready convenience but gain massive flexibility.

Do Electric Conversions Need Special Wiring?

Most conversions need a dedicated cooker circuit with 32-amp or 40-amp supply, similar to any large electric range. Your conversion engineer will specify exact requirements during the survey.

If your consumer unit needs upgrading or you need a new cable run from the meter, budget an extra £500-1,500 for electrical work. Houses with recent rewires usually have adequate supplies already.

The good news is electric Agas don't need the clearances gas models require. You can have kitchen units closer to the cooker and won't need permanent ventilation grilles.

Common Concerns About Converting

"Will it still feel like a proper Aga?" Once heated, yes. The cast iron body retains and radiates heat exactly as before. The main difference is choosing when that heat is there.

"What if I want to sell it later?" Electric Agas often sell faster than gas ones. Buyers love the controllability and lower running costs. We certainly shift electric models quicker when clients ask how do I sell my Aga.

"Can I convert back to gas?" Technically yes, but we've never seen anyone want to. The cost savings and control make electric conversions a one-way journey for most owners.

Is It Worth Converting or Buying New?

If your gas Aga works well mechanically, conversion makes financial sense. New electric Agas start around £12,000, while conversion costs half that or less.

However, if you're already facing expensive repairs or your Aga is showing its age, a new electric model might be smarter. Modern electric Agas have better insulation and efficiency than converted older models.

For comparison, we also see many people converting oil Agas to electric with similar savings, though oil conversions can be slightly more complex.

Making the Decision

Converting your gas Aga to electric delivers real benefits: dramatic cost savings, temperature control, and kitchen comfort. The process is straightforward with qualified installers, and most owners see payback within 2-3 years through reduced energy bills.

If you're hesitating, calculate your current gas costs over the next five years and compare them to electric running costs plus conversion expense. The numbers usually make the decision clear. With energy prices unlikely to fall, converting sooner means saving sooner.