The Pros and Cons of Induction Cooking
Are you considering an induction cooktop or range for your kitchen upgrade? We’ve ironed out the pros and cons of induction cooking to help you decide if an induction cooktop is right for you.
The Pros and Cons of an Induction Cooktop or Range
Pros:
- It’s Safer
One of the most commonly cited appeals of induction heating is the elimination of an open gas flame or hot electric element. When you set a pan on the induction cooktop, the surface itself doesn’t heat, so there’s no need to worry about grease fires, burnt fingers, or melting spoons.
Many advocates of induction cooktops say that the instant, precise heat is more convenient and safe than other standard gas or electric options.
- Instant Adjustment
Adjusting the cooking heat is instant, precise, and fast. Cooking with induction allows you to gently simmer, boil, and everywhere in between in record time. It only takes about 2 to 4 minutes to bring 6 quarts of water to a boil!
- Easy to Clean
Induction cooktops are so easy to clean that a simple wipe down is all you’ll need. The cooktop is more or less an extension of your counter top, making clean up a cinch. Forget about sticky metal grates or charred drip pans—your induction cooktop will wipe down in seconds flat.
- No Wasted Heat
Induction cooktops heat 25-50% faster than radiant cooktops, making induction heat the clear choice if you desire speed and efficiency. And, unlike their electric and gas counterparts, induction heat comes directly from its magnetic field, so the heat is extremely precise, heating only the cookware.
Learn About the Best Pans for Induction Cooktops
Why does your induction cooktop or range need a specific kind of cookware? Learn more here…
Cons:
- Expensive
If you decide to go with an induction cooktop, you should expect a higher price tag upfront. With costs ranging from $1,800 to $3,500, induction cooktops are a bit more expensive than their standard gas or electric counterparts.
You’ll also want to consider the investment you’ll need to make in cookware. Induction cooktops require the right cooking vessels (pots, pans, woks, etc.). Induction only works with cooking vessels made from magnetic materials, like stainless steel or cast iron, not aluminum, copper, or Pyrex.
- Installation Considerations
Installation might be a bit tricky. Due to wiring, voltage, and amperage considerations, induction cooktops are easiest installed during new construction. If you’re considering buying an induction cooktop for your existing home, you’ll want to consult an electrician before you make the purchase decision. Improper installation can lead to overloaded wiring, interference with radio or television reception, or worse!
- Noisy
A humming or buzzing noise is very common with induction cooktops and ranges. While this isn’t a huge drawback (the noise is about as loud as a whisper), be sure to ask for a live demo to take a test drive before you buy.
Induction cooking can be a fun, eco-friendly, and safe way to cook your favorite foods. Whatever you choose, contact Appliance Service Station for questions or concerns with your induction cooktop. We service the following brands of induction cooktops, ranges, and rangetops:
One Response
I like that you pointed out how induction heating is safer because there’s no fire or hot element. My husband loves to cook, but he’s always burning himself. Maybe we should look into getting an induction heater for our kitchen so he doesn’t hurt himself so much.