Induction cooktops use magnetic heat generation and are more expensive than electric or gas models. Consider size, element power, and controls when buying. Only metal pans that react to a magnet can be used.
An induction cooktop cooks food without the kind of heat generation required by electric or gas ranges. The heat is created magnetically and almost everything remains confined to the cookware and the food inside. These hobs can cost many times more than electric and gas models. These cooktops come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to know the size you need before buying and determine any additional preferred features, such as element power, pan detectors, and number of elements. If you’re replacing a freestanding range, an induction cooktop and oven combination may be the best choice.
All induction models should have standard features like a smooth top and faster heating, so your choice will depend on the size and type you need. There are cooktops that come separately, for those who want to swap out or purchase a built-in variety; self-contained models have a connected oven. The dimensions of both are fairly standard compared to gas or electric models, so swapping should be straightforward.
The hob itself can vary in the size or power of the elements in which the pots and pans are located. Higher wattage elements generate heat more quickly and can reach higher temperatures than lower wattage elements. Be sure to look at cooktops for limitations, as some models can’t have all four elements on top at the same time. Another variation is the induction hob which has five elements rather than four, which can be useful for those who cook multiple things on the hob at the same time. There are also cooktops with special features, such as pan detectors that automatically detect the size of the pan to generate the appropriate amount of heat energy.
Another thing to consider when buying an induction cooktop is the type of controls it uses. Some touch controls may wear out faster than knobs, switches, or buttons. Some models have nearly two dozen different power settings and preset things like boiling water or keeping cooked food hot. The childproof lock and automatic timed shut-off are also safety features you may want to consider when shopping for an induction hob.
These types of cooktops look similar to electric versions which have solid surface tops. Induction coils are hidden beneath the surface, just like electric coils are hidden in some electric models. Induction heating uses electricity to produce magnetic fields that heat metal pans that touch the surface. Only metal pans that react to a magnet can be used for this type of induction cooking, so you may need to buy new pans along with your new hob.
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