Induction cooktops look almost identical to standard smooth-top cooktops, but there’s a lot more to them than meets the eye. Functionally, there is a big difference between induction cooktops and regular electric cooktops, which makes induction cooktops safer, more environmentally friendly, and even faster than other cooktops.

There are freestanding, sliding and built-in models so you can choose the best induction range that fits your space perfectly.

Below, we’ve explained what an induction cooktop is, how it works, and outlined the pros and cons, so you can decide if an induction range is right for you.

What is an induction hob?

An induction hob is a cooking surface with an electromagnetic field located beneath the surface. When switched on, the electromagnetic field reacts with the magnetic cookware and generates heat by transferring energy.

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How does induction cooking work?

While an induction stove uses electricity to create heat, it does not do so in the same way as an electric stove. Electric cooktops use electricity to heat the element, either under a glass top or directly on the coil-shaped cooktop.

This hob then becomes extremely hot. When a pot or pan is placed on the hob, heat is then transferred to it, with much of that heat being lost in the process.

An induction cooktop does not use electricity to heat the cooktop itself. Instead, electricity is used to power the electromagnetic field beneath the glass. When a magnetic pan is placed on the hob, the magnetic reaction causes the pan to heat up. This direct connection efficiently heats the pan without heating the hob itself.

To cook on an induction hob, you must use cookware that is compatible with induction. This is because the magnetic field that an induction cooktop uses to generate heat must have magnetic cookware to react to.

Cookware made from materials such as aluminium, copper and glass will not work with induction, as these materials are not magnetic – however, traditional cookware such as stainless steel, cast iron, enameled iron and nickel will.

Advantages of induction hobs

Like any other style of cooktop and range, there are pros and cons associated with induction cooktops.

Here are some of the prominent benefits of induction cooktops:

• security: Since the induction cooktop’s magnetic field heats the pan itself, not the cooktop, you don’t have to worry about the cooktop heating up if you forget to turn it off after removing the pan.
• Energy efficient: Induction cooktops are more energy efficient than electric and gas stoves, saving you money while being environmentally conscious.
• Easy to clean: Induction cooktops have a solid glass cooktop, similar to a glass or ceramic electric cooktop. This solid surface is much easier to clean than a gas stove or a traditional electric stove with coil elements. Plus, since the hob doesn’t heat up, there are far fewer places for food to catch fire.
• Cooking speed: The heat generation from the magnetic reaction of an induction cooktop is unmatched. Induction-compatible cookware heats up quickly and evenly, making cooking quick and easy.

Disadvantages of induction hobs

Induction hobs can also have some disadvantages, here are some disadvantages you need to know:

• Missing throttle feel: The flame of gas stoves, in itself, is a favorite among cooks. It is easy to read and react to, which is the main part of cooking. Induction cooktops lack flame or even glow, which is why some users want a visual display of heat.
• Requires special utensils: If you switch to induction but don’t yet have the right cookware, be prepared to shell out extra money for induction-compatible cookware.
• expensive: Induction cooktops and stoves are usually more expensive than their direct competition with electric and gas stoves. Furthermore, switching from gas to induction will likely require you to hire an electrician to run the correct electrical line.

Installation and costs of induction hobs

Most induction ranges use the same electrical connection as a standard electrical range. So, if you’re going from electric to induction, simply turn off the old stove and turn on the new stove.

However, switching from gas to induction will require you to install a dedicated electrical line if it is not already present, which is likely the case since it is not required for a gas furnace. If this is the case, you will need to hire an electrician, which is estimated to cost $50 to $100 per hour plus material costs.