Pros and cons of induction hobs: operation principle of devices and review of popular models

Induction cooktop has recently appeared on the domestic market.

Many well-known manufacturers are engaged in the production of stoves of this type.

Devices are constantly being improved, and modern models in quality of work and functionality are not inferior to gas and electric stoves.

Distinctive features

Induction hob - a new generation stove. In essence, it is the same electric cooktop, the only difference is the heating principle. You can cook on it any food, except for oven dishes.

Induction hobs work from a standard 220 W. The power of the device for 4 burners - a maximum of 7 kW.

Manufacturers offer a large selection of models with both basic functionality, and with advanced options.

Principle of operation

In traditional stoves and hobs, the heat source is a gas burner or electric heater.

They transfer the heat to the cookware, and thus the contents are heated. Often the body of the stove itself is also heated.

Cooking with an induction cooker only heats the bottom of the cookware. The burner itself does not participate in the heat exchange. The heat comes from the induction coil, which is located directly under the glass ceramic coating.

Thanks to a small heating zone, the device consumes little electricity compared to electric stoves. In the process of long-term operation, housewives note significant savings in electricity.

As soon as the pot is removed from the burner, the device turns off. Accordingly, the power consumption is stopped.

Also, the appliance won't run without the cookware. For comparison - on gas and electric hobs, an empty burner works and heats up.

Types of devices

Induction hobs do not differ practically in appearance. The key characteristics for buyers are the power of the device and the number of burners.

There are variants for 1-2 burners, which are purchased mainly for dacha or occasional use. There are models for 3-5 burners for large families.

The working surface of induction stoves is made of glass ceramic with few exceptions. This is an expensive high-strength material that is not afraid of high temperatures and retains its pristine appearance for many years.

There are 4 types of hobs:

1. Built-in - The classic type of hobs that are mounted in the kitchen countertop. The range allows you to choose a device according to the parameters of the furniture.
2. Portable - Portable version for 1-2 burners. To use it is enough to install the device on a flat surface, plug it into the socket. Such models are much cheaper than built-in panels. They are suitable for country houses, as well as for people who cook little at home.
3. Combination - the device has induction and electric (gas) burners. They cost 2-3 times more expensive than purely induction models with similar functions, and are almost not in demand.
4. Without burners. - The latest models, on which there is no division into individual burners. The appliance automatically recognizes the zone where the cookware is placed. It is allowed to use two or more pans at the same time with the ability to individually adjust the parameters for each of them.

Also, manufacturers are introducing additional functions. They do not affect the quality of food, but make the cooking process more comfortable.

Useful additional options:

• Power Boost - function of accelerated heating, is available on almost all models.
• Quick Start - The device automatically determines on which burner the cookware is placed.
• Keep warm mode - Done dish can be left on the stove and it will not cool down.
• Timer - allows you to set the cooking time and mind your own business.
• Safety shutoff - If liquid spills onto the surface, the device switches itself off.

Appliance design

On the surface of the induction hob there are no protruding elements. All work items are hidden under the glass ceramic coating.

The device design includes the following elements:

1. Induction coil - The main element of the hob, responsible for heating the dishes. It is located under each burner.
2. Control panel - It controls the temperature and heating power, as well as additional settings.
3. Temperature sensor - Is responsible for the correspondence of the set and the actual temperature.
4. Insulating heat pipe - To prevent the adjacent appliance from heating up. Occurs in almost all modern models.

Pros of induction hobs

Many buyers are still skeptical about induction cooktops.

Manufacturers offer a variety of designs, you can always pick up the device under the style of the kitchen set.

Advantages:

• Instant heating - In terms of speed of boiling water, induction hobs have surpassed gas and electric analogues.
• Operational efficiency - Fast heating, automatic pot detection, timer and other features facilitate the cooking process.
• Energy saving - Induction models have energy class A. Although induction stoves and electric stoves have the same power, energy savings are achieved through rapid heating.
• Touch controls - Instead of the usual rotary switches there is an electronic display. To change the mode, simply press the desired button, or slide your finger on the scale left / right (slider control).
• Easy care - To maintain cleanliness, it is sufficient to wipe the surface with a damp sponge without aggressive detergents. There are no protruding elements on the panel, so grease and dirt do not accumulate anywhere.
• Bridge function - On many models, it is possible to combine two burners into one, and they will work synchronously for a predetermined time. This allows you to cook food in non-standard cookware (duck pans, fryers).
• The air is not heated - During the operation of a gas or electric appliance increases the temperature of the air in the room, especially in summer. The induction hob only heats the bottom of the cookware.
• Safety - The working surface during operation is practically not heated, so it is impossible to get burnt in case of an accidental touch. Also, many models have a lock function, which is relevant for families with small children.

Disadvantages of induction hobs

Many users prefer induction hobs because of the rapid heating. But before buying, it is advisable to consider some nuances.

Induction hob is a powerful device, and the old wiring can simply not withstand the load.

There are objective disadvantages, which are worth familiarizing yourself with before buying the technique:

• Cost - The average price of an induction hob is 3-5 times higher than the cost of gas and electric appliances. Not all consumers can afford such a novelty.
• Increased noise - especially during the operation of the device at maximum power.
• The impact of electromagnetic radiation - its effect on the body is not fully understood. But it is possible that the unpleasant effects will manifest themselves in a few decades.
• Requirements to the cookware - Due to the specifics of the work of the induction panel, special cookware with ferromagnetic properties is required. Often the hostess has to change the arsenal of pots and pans, and this is an unnecessary expense.

Top 5 best models ranking

Place	Name	Price
Top 5 best induction hobs
1	Electrolux IPE 6453 KF	27 000 ?
2	Bosch PUE612FF1J	29 000 ?
3	Bosch PIF645FB1E	34 000 ?
4	Beko HII 64400 ATX	14 000 ?
5	Weissgauff HI 641 BS	14 000 ?

The Best Induction Cooktops

Almost all manufacturers of home appliances have induction cooktops in their range. Below we look at the characteristics and features of models of popular brands.

Electrolux IPE 6453 KF

The hob made in Sweden is popular with customers. Powerful device for 4 burners.

This model provides slider control - modes are adjusted with the scale on the control panel.

The noise during operation is almost not noticeable, with the exception of Boost mode.

Bosch PUE612FF1J

Stylish white hob with 4 burners. Intuitive controls, The touch panel is located on the front of the device.

Despite the white color, the surface is easy to keep clean.

It is enough to wipe it with a damp sponge, you can do it directly during cooking.

Bosch PIF645FB1E

A modern four burner hob for the family. The black color will match any room design.

The entire perimeter of the model is equipped with a metal frame.

If you spill liquid during cooking, it will not spill beyond the bounds of the stove.

Burner with an oval extension makes it possible to use roasting pans, duck pans, fish pans and other non-standard cookware.

Beko HII 64400 ATX.

Modern four burner panel includes 9 levels of heating. It is always possible to Always choose the best mode for each dish.

There is a touch screen on the front of the panel to control the appliance.

Turbo heating function provides instant water boiling.

Weissgauff HI 641 BS.

Stylish four burner hob for the family. The worktop is made of Vitrified ceramic, black color.

If something is spilled, you do not need to worry about burning and long cleaning of the panel.

Just wipe with a damp sponge even without detergents.

Slider control allows you to adjust modes by shifting your finger to the right / left.

Conclusion and conclusions

Induction hob - a useful appliance for the modern kitchen. A large selection of models and manufacturers will satisfy any requirements of the buyer.

In terms of operation there are no strict rules and restrictions. Additional options allow maximum automation of the cooking process, and the hostess at this time can do other things.

Useful video

From the video you will learn about the pros and cons of the induction cooktop: