Expert advice on how to choose an induction hob? An overview of important characteristics, as well as the pros and cons of devices

An induction hob is a device that is comfortable to work with. Recommendations on how to choose equipment, as well as on the pros and cons - further in the material.

The induction hob is a practical and handy appliance that has an extensive list of benefits.

This equipment characterized by a high level of safety, economical energy consumption and excellent ergonomics, which makes induction-type surfaces more and more in demand and popular.

With the selection of kitchen appliances, there should not be any particular difficulties, because today in stores there are quite interesting models with excellent functionality.

However, it is better to prepare by familiarizing yourself with the basic selection criteria.

Pay attention to the ratings of various induction cookers presented on our website, there is a detailed overview of models with characteristics, pros and cons:

The principle of operation of induction hobs

Principle of operation. Unlike other hobs, induction hobs do not have a heat source.

Small induction coils are hidden under the glass-ceramic surface - when you turn on the device, they only slightly heat up.

In addition to induction coils, equipment consists of such elements as:

  • aluminum bracket;
  • ferrites and coil wiring;
  • temperature sensors;
  • control Panel.

Mechanism of action device is in passing through the coils of copper wire of alternating electric current.

In this case, a magnetic alternating field is formed around the coil - it generates an induction current in any metal objects that are in close proximity to the source.

As a result, the dishes placed on the work area begin to heat up.

Advantages

Induction hobs are amazing easy to operate, they multifunctional and energy efficient, but this is not all the advantages of modern kitchen equipment.

Keep in mind! Significant advantages of technology are also:
  • technical advancement.
    Induction-type surfaces are equipped with many useful options and programs that are not available for gas appliances.
    The equipment is able to determine the size of dishes, change the intensity of heating when moving pans and has an intuitive control system;
  • ease of maintenance.
    Drops or products that accidentally fall on the surface do not burn, since the device practically does not heat up.
    Thanks to this, it is much easier to remove dirt - all you need is a soft cloth and water;
  • fast and even heating of dishes.
    Induction models surpass even gas appliances and electric stoves with cast-iron burners in terms of heating speed.
    The technique can also boast of a lightning-fast response - you can notice this bonus when changing the mode;
  • the presence of combined heating zones.
    They are equipped with almost all new models of stoves.
    This makes it possible to cook a variety of dishes in large-sized dishes, and not just in standard pans and pots.
    Unusually shaped dishes can also be used;
  • maintaining the optimum temperature in the room.
    Unlike ordinary electrical panels and gas devices, which increase the air temperature during cooking, induction models eliminate the occurrence of such inconveniences;
  • the presence of various additional options.
    They facilitate and simplify the process of cooking.
    If necessary, the user can quickly adjust the temperature, set a timer or pause cooking, as well as select intensive heating.

Flaws

Among cons induction type techniques worth highlighting:

  • the need to use special utensils.
    For cooking on induction, you need to use stainless steel dishes with a perfectly flat bottom.
    Copper and brass cookware is suitable, but the cooking process will be much slower.
    Utensils made of glass and ceramics are strictly prohibited;
  • little soundtrack.
    Due to the operation of the cooling system, the turned on surface may make a slight noise.
    Nevertheless, there are also devices that work with minimal noise effects that do not cause discomfort at all;
  • the presence of certain rules for installing equipment.
    Built-in devices should not be installed next to metal surfaces, above a compact refrigerator, or near a microwave oven.
    Also, the electromagnetic field can have a negative effect on pacemakers.

How to choose the required number of burners?

The number of induction hotplates can be different (from one to six), so it is important to decide which value will be optimal in a particular case.

It is worth noting! For sole use, a model equipped with one or two heating zones is quite enough.

If the device is purchased for a large family or users who regularly prepare a wide variety of dishes, it is worth giving preference to equipment with a large number of burners.

Induction hobs do not have to have round burners.

Heating zones can be hexagonal and diamond-shaped - it all depends on the manufacturer's imagination and the preferences of the buyer.

How to choose the shape and size of the panel?

The size of the hob depends directly on the number of induction burners.

The choice must be made on the basis of, what type of device (embedded or independent) necessary, as well as how many heating zones will be present.

In shops there are both miniature models from 30x30 cm, and full-sized devices for 100x100 cm.

It is not a problem to find equipment of any shape. On sale there are classic square models, rectangular and even oval.

Stay up to date! In this case, you need to consider the size of the kitchen and your own design preferences.

How to choose panel material?

There are several options:

  1. Glass ceramics.
    It differs in mechanical strength and resistance to overheating.
    Glass-ceramic surfaces have an attractive appearance and withstand cleaning with detergents containing abrasive particles.
    But they can crack from an accidental drop of some heavy object.
  2. Strained glass.
    Tempered glass devices are a bit more expensive.
    The high cost of devices is determined by unsurpassed strength, ease of cleaning and presentable design.
    The only negative is that the range of models is small.

Color selection

The design and color palette of the induction hob are also of considerable importance, because ideally, the device should be in harmony with the overall interior of the kitchen.

Note! Most often, buyers prefer equipment presented in a classic black version.

This option is more practical and versatile, because drops will be immediately visible on a white surface.

If you want to stand out, you should take a closer look at colorful spectacular models, complementing the kitchen with bright colors.that will bring joy to everyday life.

Dependent or independent installation

The choice of the buyer is given two options for induction surfaces:

  • stand-alone.
    They have their own control units and are not connected by common wires, so that the equipment can be positioned exactly as it is convenient for the owner.
    In this case, the oven can be located in any part of the kitchen or not at all.
    In addition, a free-standing surface is easy to place in the countertop of a kitchen set.
    It can be placed exactly where the hostess will be comfortable cooking;
  • embedded.
    It involves combining the oven with the hob with a common drive, which means that the devices cannot be used separately.
    The two appliances will have a common control box and electrical wires, so the induction hob will always be above the oven.
    The option is much less mobile, but it will be an excellent solution for housewives who often experiment in the kitchen.

Additional selection features and functionality

In order to avoid mistakes when choosing induction equipment, attention should be paid not only to the basic functionality, but also to some nuances that also play a significant role.

Switch type

Induction surfaces are equipped with touch sliders (circular or linear) and buttons for each power level.

A magnetic switch may also be present in the form of a removable rotary disk.

Timer

The presence of a timer allows you to turn on the cooking surface at any time and turn it off at the right time.

Forgetful users will definitely like this useful option and help save energy.

Safety shutdown

The system guarantees a high level of safety, as it helps prevent equipment damage due to overheating.

Reference! The program works as follows: a signal is received from the temperature sensors to increase the temperature limit, after which the cooling fan automatically turns on.

If this is not enough, the system turns off the running zones and restores the workflow with user-defined settings only after the temperature reaches an acceptable level.

Temperature indicator

Temperature control system allows the owner to take a break from the cooking process without interrupting it.

If the heating temperature rises more than the parameters set by the user, the system will automatically reduce the power and enter the temperature maintenance mode.

This approach will not allow uncontrolled locking or overheating of products.

Fast heating mode

Fast heating mode or booster is a function that allows you to increase the power of one heating zone at the expense of another burner.

The option is usually used if the owner needs to quickly boil water.

Energy consumption control

Program power consumption control is another useful option that will appeal to thrifty users.

Models equipped with the function are a little more expensive, but they are more practical.

Possible additional functionality

Stay up to date! Additional options may include:
  • control panel security lock - an indispensable feature for families with small children, which will increase the level of security;
  • pause - by activating this function, the user will be able to temporarily suspend the cooking process or extend it to keep the heat of the finished dish;
  • limitless induction - allows you to install dishes on the stove in any zone.
    The equipment will adjust automatically and turn on the heating in the right place;
  • heating degree adjustment range - often present in premium models and can reach 20.
    The best solution would be a device with 14 modes.

How and with what to wash and clean induction panels?

By following the rules for cleaning and caring for the device, the owner will be able to extend the life and maintain the attractiveness of the induction equipment.

It is recommended to clean and wash the surface with silicone-based detergents. They provide a good protective film.

You can also use regular dishwashing detergents., pre making sure that the composition does not contain aggressive components.

Should know! Avoid the use of abrasives.

Difficult pollution is eliminated with the help of special scrapers.

Steel wool should not be used - they can easily damage the surface, leaving scratches.

Which cookware is suitable for induction?

When planning to purchase a brand new induction hob, you need to be prepared to upgrade the cookware - as not all cookware is suitable.

After all, you can only use kitchen utensils made from materials that have ferromagnetic properties.

These include cast iron, stainless steel and cookware made from other iron alloys. The bottom must be smooth and even..

The buyer will have to say goodbye to utensils made of copper, aluminum, brass, glass and ceramics - these materials are not suitable for cooking on induction.

The surface will not work with dishes with a diameter of less than 12 cm.

You should not get upset, because there is another option for using your favorite pots and pans.

Reference! On sale you can find special stands-adapters.

Using them, it will turn out to cook dinner in dishes made of inappropriate material, although this is not very convenient.

How to connect?

Buyer first it is necessary to determine the place of installation of the equipment.

If the device is intended for independent installation, it must be placed on a perfectly flat surface, given that the distance from the wall to the back of the structure must be at least 3 cm.

Connecting Embedded Models requires no less thorough preparation.

Needed in advance make sure the dimensions match and find a place for the wire outlet.

After installing the structure, you need to use the seals included in the kit or use a special sealant.

Popular manufacturers

Note! The best manufacturers of induction hobs are:
  1. Bosch.
    A German brand that is the world's leading supplier of industrial technology.
    The company produces excellent induction-type surfaces, which are famous for their reliability, high quality and multifunctionality.
    The technology is affordable.
  2. Weissgauff.
    A major brand offering products of consistent quality for purchase.
    The developer uses innovative solutions in the production of kitchen equipment and gives a long warranty on its equipment.
  3. Electrolux.
    A popular Swedish manufacturer of professional and household appliances.
    The company offers induction cookers at an affordable price, which stand out for their impressive functionality.
    The devices have a stylish design.
  4. Indesit.
    A proven Italian company for which nothing is impossible.
    The manufacturer takes into account the needs of its customers and creates equipment with impeccable characteristics.
    The surfaces are easy and convenient to use, they are easy to clean and absolutely safe.
  5. Zanussi.
    Another Italian brand whose kitchen appliances occupies a leading position in various ratings.
    The equipment from the developer belongs to the middle price segment and attracts with its rich features, cutting-edge performance, as well as a long warranty period.
  6. Midea.
    Chinese manufacturer of small and large household appliances.
    The company is well known for its fully functional induction hobs that effectively combine ergonomics, safety and sophistication.
    Equipment from the brand is durable and reliable, which attracts buyers.
  7. Gorenje.

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conclusions

Wide functionality is a weighty argument for purchasing an induction hob.

However When choosing equipment, consider the following nuances:

  • number, size and shape of burners, design dimensions, installation method and basic functionality - the parameters that you should pay attention to in the first place;
  • play an important role protective options for safe use.
    The device must have a protective shutdown system and a program for blocking the control panel from small children;
  • the design has its own connection features and needs careful maintenance - this information must be carefully studied before starting operation;
  • despite all the advantages of induction type devices, they require the use of special utensils.
    Such dishes should have ferromagnetic properties, be perfectly even and smooth.

Useful video

This video provides an overview of the TOP 6 best induction hobs:


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