Induction hob: pros, cons and features of choice

What is an induction hob

You might think that this is an alternative name for another type of electric stove. Everything is completely wrong: this is a fundamentally new type of heating panel that works on the basis of magnetic induction. Heating occurs in record time: 2 liters of water in a pan can be boiled in just 5-6 minutes. In addition, the panel itself does not heat up and wastes almost no thermal energy. Only the dishes placed on the burner are heated. The operation of such a hob may look like magic, but in fact it is purely physics involved.

Principle of operation

In an induction hob, under the glass-ceramic hob, there is an electromagnetic coil that creates a magnetic field. The metal surface of the dishes standing on the stove reacts to this field; accordingly, the dishes heat up and transfer heat to the food inside. The burner itself remains cold, it is impossible to burn yourself on it or otherwise harm yourself. In addition, this approach avoids heat losses: the efficiency of panels operating using magnetic induction is about 90%. No gas or electric stove can achieve this effect.

Operating principle of an electric stove

Modern equipment includes electric stoves with glass-ceramic surfaces. The operating principle of the device is based on the influence of current on heating elements, which heat up and transfer heat to the dishes. Halogen heaters or metal spirals are used as such parts. Control is carried out using touch and mechanical switches.

The main disadvantage of electrical equipment is the high heat of the burners.

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Differences from electrical panel

Outwardly, both species may look similar to each other, but that is where the similarities end.

• The operating principle is completely different. Inside the induction burner there is not a heating element, but a magnetic coil.
• Electric stoves heat the burner, while induction stoves only heat the cookware.
• Heating speed and efficiency, as well as energy efficiency, vary greatly. In induction panels it is much higher: the burner does not heat up and no energy is wasted on it. Therefore, their use is also justified from the point of view of economy.

Myths about induction panels

Unfortunately, as is the case with any other technological achievements, induction panels have already acquired a significant number of rumors. Some of them are pure prejudices and have nothing to do with reality, others have a real basis, but are greatly exaggerated. Let's look at a few popular myths and explain how things work in practice.

Induction panels are harmful to health.

We once heard the same thing about microwave ovens: some people believe that magnetic radiation can be harmful to health. However, this is nothing more than a prejudice that can be refuted by any physics textbook. The magnetic field that an induction panel creates interacts only with metals, and not with all. It cannot in any way change the properties of food or in any way irradiate the human body. All that this field has a noticeable effect on is the bottom of the dish. Therefore, when used correctly, induction panels are completely harmless. They are even considered safer than their analogues: the burners do not heat up and it is impossible to get burned on them. However, people with pacemakers and other similar implants really should not use the panels. The magnetic field can indeed harm the operation of such devices, but only if you come too close to the operating equipment. Typically the field extends beyond the panel body by only 30 cm.

This is the same electrical panel.

This is not so: the fundamental differences have already been described earlier. There are people who believe that induction burners get as hot as electric ones and still lose heat, but in such cases, we are most likely talking about low-quality models. You can really expect atypical behavior from them. Therefore, before choosing an induction hob, be sure to read reviews and check the quality of the model you want to buy.

All utensils will need to be replaced.

There is an opinion that buying an induction panel means replacing absolutely all pots and pans with special ones. There is some truth in this statement. Magnetic induction does not work with all metals: for the saucepan to heat up, it must be made of a ferromagnetic material. This is the name for materials that can interact with magnets. It's easy to check whether your cookware can be used with an induction cooker: just hold a magnet from the refrigerator near it. If it sticks, then it is made of a ferromagnetic material. There are more pots and pans like this than you think, so you won't necessarily have to replace all your cookware. There are no other special requirements for cookware for induction cookers.

Very difficult to connect.

You may come across reviews where people complain about difficulties connecting induction hobs. Due to the fact that such equipment is usually more complex than conventional electric models, there are indeed a number of requirements for installation. But in itself it usually does not cause any special difficulties. The main thing is not to damage fragile elements during transportation and installation and to choose a suitable location for installation. It is not recommended to place induction hobs near a refrigerator, washing machine or dishwasher. In addition, the burners should not be located above the oven: there are no dependent models of this type. The oven should either be located in a different place, or be absent altogether. Otherwise, there are no serious restrictions: if you properly plan the space in the kitchen in advance, the connection will not cause any difficulties.

Advantages of induction panels

There is an opinion that induction cookers are the future. And here's why: in terms of efficiency and productivity, they are seriously ahead of all other existing types.

Efficiency

. As already mentioned, the efficiency of such a burner can be up to 90%. This means that the loss of energy will be minimal: almost all of it goes into heating the dishes and, accordingly, the food.

Speed

. This contributes to very fast, rapid heating of food and significantly speeds up cooking. Induction panels, as well as other types, can be easily adjusted, and some even have a so-called “turbo mode”, in which the heating speed increases to the maximum.

Saving

. By purchasing such a panel, you seriously save on electricity. Standard electric burners spend quite a lot of energy, induction burners spend much less, since they do not heat up on their own.

Safety

. Induction panels are safe and you won’t get burned on them. Even if a child accidentally turns on the burner, nothing will happen to him - the surface will remain cold.

Convenience

. Imagine that you can easily place a spoon or ladle on the surface of the hob, and nothing will happen to them. And splashes that accidentally hit the glass ceramics will not burn: there is nothing to burn on a cool stove. This greatly simplifies both the cooking process and kitchen cleaning. There will be no need to use aggressive products, there will be no ingrained fat or burnt spots on the broth. Simply wipe the surface with a damp cloth or towel after cooking: an induction panel is a serious saver of time and effort.

Additional and very useful features

It is noteworthy that not only the best hobs have them - many models are equipped with them. For example, you can accurately adjust the temperature you need at the moment, and also set the time using a timer. The heating (maintaining a given temperature of the dish) and blocking functions are very popular among consumers.

Induction cookers are so convenient, efficient and safe that restaurants and other catering establishments are increasingly equipped with them - professional chefs are delighted with them!

Disadvantages of induction panels

Everything has its downsides, and induction hobs are no exception. The reason why they still remain a rare attribute of modern cuisine lies not only in prejudice. Among the disadvantages of such panels are:

• high cost. Since they are much more technologically advanced than conventional ones, the panels are correspondingly more expensive. But prices are gradually falling, as happens with all new equipment. In addition, purchasing an induction model will allow you to save on electricity in the future;
• the need to use special utensils. If your pots and pans are not made of ferromagnetic materials, they will need to be replaced. But, fortunately, there are more and more universal cookware models on the market that are suitable for any appliance. Including induction;
• inability to work with small containers. For example, brewing coffee in a Turkish coffee pot can be problematic. But for this, special adapters and other accessories have been invented to solve the problem;
• slight noise during operation.

Which cookware is suitable for induction heating

Only with pronounced magnetic properties. You can conduct a simple test yourself: if the pot or pan you are using “sticks” to the magnet, then it is suitable for our purposes. From this we can conclude that cookware made from:

• ceramics,
• glass,
• aluminum

At the same time, there remains a huge range of different dishes that are guaranteed to suit you. In fact, the market share of such utensils is up to 90%. Therefore, there is absolutely no need to go shopping in search of something “special”. Manufacturers meet the buyer halfway and even mark cookware suitable for induction with a special sign. But this does not mean that the rest is not suitable - just take a magnet with you when shopping and check the container you like. You are guaranteed to be satisfied with many of the products that do not have special markings; you can even benefit from the price.

But sometimes it’s a pity to part with your favorite aluminum saucepan. So, should we deny ourselves the benefits of civilization? It’s not worth it, just buy an adapter and you can cook on an induction panel in absolutely any pan.

Electric or induction: what to choose

Despite the fact that electric panels are still more in demand, induction panels are confidently gaining popularity: the pros outweigh the cons many times over. Ultimately, the choice depends entirely on your preferences.

• If you have a lot of cookware, all of it is not made from ferromagnetic materials, and you are not willing to spend the time figuring out a suitable location for an induction hob, an electric one may be your best option. In addition, it is better to choose the traditional version for people with pacemakers and medical implants.
• If you want the appliances in your home to be modern, as safe and energy efficient as possible, choose an induction panel. Yes, before purchasing it you will need to think about the optimal location, replace unsuitable dishes and purchase an adapter for small containers. But your efforts will be rewarded with high speed, efficiency and safety, which is especially important for those who have small children and pets.

What to look for when choosing

Of course, the type of hob is not the only parameter that needs to be taken into account before purchasing. Whatever you ultimately choose - electricity or induction, you should pay attention to other details.

Characteristics

. We are talking primarily about power, connection features and dimensions. As a rule, such appliances are built-in, so its dimensions are extremely important to take into account when choosing so that the panel fits perfectly into the kitchen unit. But other characteristics deserve attention:

• number of burners. For large families, the standard 4 are suitable; for those who rarely cook or live alone, 2 or 3;
• control. Usually it is touch-sensitive - a separate zone is allocated on the panel in which the parameters of the burners are configured;
• availability of additional functions. Pay attention to them, especially those related to safety: overheating protection, power lock or recognition of the presence of dishes. A convenient addition is a timer or light indicator for the operation of the burner.

Manufacturer

. When choosing complex equipment, you should not save money and turn to unverified manufacturers. It is better to purchase products from a reputable company and get a panel of which you are confident. GranFest™ has been on the market for more than 15 years, has 12 prestigious awards and improves technology year after year. We suggest taking a closer look at the models of built-in appliances in the catalogue. You will find both induction and electric panels with different characteristics: the choice is up to you.

Rating of the best induction hobs, surfaces and stoves

Cooktops and stoves with induction heating are still infrequent guests in Russian kitchens. There are two main reasons: high cost and lack of understanding of the operating principle. Let's add here the costs of purchasing special cookware, and it seems that all the advantages of induction cooktops and stoves are offset by high costs. But the well-being of Russians is gradually growing from year to year, so the popularity of this type of household appliances in the domestic market is increasing. Experts make a confident forecast: the induction heating method will completely replace electric and gas analogues over the next 10–15 years.

Most Popular Brands

In Russia, the development of this type of kitchen appliances is just getting started; our models are produced in China. Therefore, there are models from European Union countries on the household appliances market. The products of world-famous concerns from Germany (Bosch and Siemens), Sweden (Asko and Electrolux), and the Czech Republic (Gorenje) are in greatest demand. But still, the range of induction cookers, hobs and surfaces is still much smaller than their electric and gas counterparts. The most popular models are hobs (like portable stoves) and built-in hobs. Full-fledged induction hobs with an oven and 4 burners are more difficult to find in stores, although there are good models.

Photo gallery of induction hobs, surfaces and stoves popular in Russia

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The usual filling of an inexpensive built-in induction panel in a very beautiful design

This model cooks quickly, consumes little electricity, is reliable in operation, and is distinguished by German build quality.

An ideal cooking surface that speeds up the cooking process in pots and pans of different sizes

The hob attracts consumers with a modern security system - panel locking, sound burner timer, residual heat indicator and safety shutdown function

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