Calculate Fuel Costs
Understanding Pizza Oven Fuel Costs
Wood-Fired Ovens: Traditional but requires constant fuel feeding. One hardwood bundle ($8) lasts ~3-4 hours and can cook 12-16 pizzas. Cost per pizza: $0.50-0.70. Wood provides authentic flavor but demands attention and produces ash. Storage needed for dry wood.
Gas/Propane Ovens: Most convenient with instant heat control. A 5-gallon tank (~$18-20) lasts 40+ hours of cooking (160 pizzas). Cost per pizza: $0.10-0.15. No ash, easy temperature adjustment, consistent heat. Tank exchanges available everywhere. Best for frequent use.
Wood Pellet Ovens: Balance of wood flavor and convenience. A 20lb bag ($15) lasts ~20 hours (80 pizzas). Cost per pizza: $0.18-0.22. Automated feeding, less smoke than wood, cleaner than logs. Pellets must stay dry. Mild wood smoke flavor without the hassle.
Electric Ovens: Lowest fuel cost but different results. Using 1.5 kWh per hour at 12¢/kWh = $0.18/hour. Cooking 4 pizzas/hour = $0.045 per pizza. Cost: $0.04-0.06 per pizza. No fuel to buy, just plug in. Indoor-friendly, precise temperature, but lacks wood-fired flavor. Best for countertop models.