Howdy folks, Ben here! One of the most common questions I get is: “Should I go gas or electric for my hot dog setup?”

The Great Street Food Power Debate

Well, this one came up big time in the Q&A when a vendor said he was moving from a gas-powered hot dog cart to an all-electric setup.

Let me tell ya, I’ve seen both sides of this.

Some vendors make electric work great — especially those vending out of a window or indoors — but if we’re talking pure performance and speed, gas wins every single time.

Why Gas Still Rules the Street

Gas-powered setups are just plain faster.

They heat up quick, recover fast when you drop in a load of cold dogs, and they’re not picky about power outlets or extension cords.

I told folks during the session:

“Gas powered does better than electric in every case. It heats up quicker, and you can adjust on the fly. Dump in a bunch of cold hot dogs, turn up that fire, and you’re right back to temp.”

Electric, on the other hand, cools off fast and takes time to bounce back.

Unless you’re running a heavy-duty 220-volt unit, it’s gonna fluctuate too much for serious volume vending.

When Electric Makes Sense

Now, that’s not to say electric has no place.

Jason and I both agreed — if you’re vending from a window setup next to a building or bar, electric might be your only option.

Helpful: Business Idea: Electric Cart And Mini Donuts

Fire codes and fire marshals often restrict propane inside or near certain structures.

In that Q&A, one vendor shared how his old setup was in a parking lot, but now he’s vending right out of a window next to a bar.

In his case, electric made perfect sense.

If that’s your plan, always check with your local fire marshal first.

Helpful: Can I Use My Hot Dog Cart Indoors?

Sometimes they’ll allow a smaller propane tank or a controlled setup if you follow the rules.

Helpful: How Long Will A Propane Tank Last On A Hot Dog Cart?

Never assume — always ask.

How to Choose the Right Hot Dog Cart Setup

So here’s how to decide what’s best for you:

• If mobility and speed matter most: Go with gas. You’ll have consistent heat, faster cook times, and more flexibility.
• If you’re vending indoors or in restricted zones: Electric keeps you compliant and safe.
• If possible, keep both options open. Some vendors use gas for cooking and electric for holding food warm.

Remember what Jason said: “Find out from your fire marshal if you can have a smaller tank and keep your gas powered — gas powered does better than electric every time.”

Real-World Vendor Tips

A lot of our pros at Vendors United use gas for the main cook and electric for the steam table.

That way, even if power fails, you’re still cookin’.

One vendor out of Colorado runs electric now because of his new location, but even he said, “If I could run gas safely, I would.” That tells you something.

At the end of the day, the best setup is the one that fits your environment, keeps you compliant, and lets you serve customers hot and fast.

And remember, just because it plugs in doesn’t mean it performs like propane.

So if you’re serious about speed, consistency, and flavor — gas is king.

But if the local codes say no fire, don’t sweat it — plug in, smile, and make it work.

And if you want to take your vending business to the next level, go and get together with the best vendors on the planet inside the Vendors United community.

You can learn about it HERE (it is 100% free to try it out for 5 days!!)…

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