Induction hob: functional appliance for kitchens

Induction hob: a functional appliance for modern kitchens

The induction hob is an excellent solution for modern kitchens. It, in comparison with other plates, is characterized by a lot of advantages. Before you purchase this type of hob, you should study the principle of its operation and operation features. In the article below, the pros and cons of induction panels are described in detail, a list of recommendations for choosing a product is given and a brief overview of the models of plates from well-known manufacturers is made.

The induction cooker has a glass-ceramic surface, under which electromagnetic coils made of copper wire are located

Induction hob: features of a household appliance

Today, manufacturers offer a wide range of cooking stoves that differ in the principle of operation, operating conditions, size, functionality and design. Each option is characterized by peculiar features that you need to know about when purchasing products.

The peculiarity of induction cookers is that they heat up only when there are dishes on them

Initially, you should understand the question of what an induction hob is. This is an electric kitchen appliance having a glass-ceramic surface, under which electromagnetic coils of copper wire are located. When an electric current passes through their coils, a transformation process occurs, resulting in an alternating electromagnetic field that creates an induction current.

This physical phenomenon causes the electrons of the magnetic bottom of the dishes to move, which are located on the surface. The bottom in this case acts as a closed-loop conductor. As a result, heat is released. At the same time, only the dishes are heated, while the surface of the stove remains cold.

Pros and cons of induction-type glass-ceramic plates

Considering the question of what an induction hob is, it is important to know that the phenomenon of induction, characteristic of this type of plates, provides energy savings, which is spent only on creating a magnetic field in the induction coil. Also, this feature of the stove contributes to a more comfortable microclimate in the room during cooking. It will not be too hot here, as when using an electric or gas surface.

The induction principle of the hob gives minimal heat loss, while significantly reducing the heating time of pots and pans

This phenomenon is carried out without intermediate components, which are used in a classical electric stove. During operation, the induction cooker is characterized by the highest efficiency, which reduces the time interval required for cooking.

A strong electromagnetic field is formed at a short distance from the active elements. This contributes to the formation of a limited working area, which ensures a high level of safety. Heating will stop at the slightest shift of the dishes to the side or when lifting it above the surface.

The stove starts working when the dishes are installed on the burner, this process ends when it is removed from the work area. This feature of the work contributes to significant energy savings, which is spent exclusively on the cooking process. Also among the advantages is the ability of the plate to independently determine the diameter of the bottom of the dishes and adjust to it. It is easy and simple to take care of the surface without using special tools.

Among the disadvantages of the induction panel is the high cost of the product. However, it is justified by efficiency, technology, functionality, safety and ease of use. Also, during the operation of the stove, a specific noise occurs, which is explained by the operation of fans used to cool the coils.

The surface of the plate remains cold — this is made possible by an induction coil located under the glass-ceramic surface

Important! An induction cooker needs to use special dishes with a bottom made of ferromagnetic material.

Induction hob: product specifications

These surfaces are created in the original design. Studying the question of what it is: an induction hob, it is important to know what elements it consists of. The device is equipped with 5 components in the form of a glass-ceramic surface, insulation, induction coil, frequency converter and control unit. The latter, in turn, can be mechanical, electronic or sensory. It is located in the front of the device. However, there are models in which each burner has an individual set of touch buttons.

The glass-ceramic surface is characterized by strength and durability. It can be damaged by strong mechanical impact or impact. The weak side of the surface is its side faces. To eliminate the possibility of their damage, beveled edges or stainless steel overlays are used, which cover the corresponding places. The panel can be made in black, white, gray and silver colors. On the latter, greasy spots will not be so noticeable, so that the surface retains an aesthetic appearance longer.

The glass-ceramic surface of induction cookers is characterized by strength and durability

Important! In order not to damage the glass-ceramic coating, do not use abrasive materials and compositions to clean the surface.

The surface can have standard or non-standard dimensions, which allows you to integrate the design into any kitchen furniture. The size does not determine the technical characteristics and functionality of the device. The surface can have from 1 to 6 burners with different working areas, so you can use dishes with different bottom diameters. The total power of the induction hob can reach 10 kW or higher.

Useful advice! When choosing a model, you should pay attention to the total power of the product in order to properly organize the power supply system of the device.

Recommendations for choosing a cooking induction surface

When choosing a surface, it is necessary to determine such technical parameters as the total power of the induction hob (kW), the number of burners, their diameter and shape, depth and width of the structure, energy efficiency class, dependence-independence of the option, functionality and manufacturer.

The induction surface in size must necessarily fit into the kitchen set

The overall design should fit into the kitchen set. The stove can have a minimum width of 30 cm, which is an ideal solution for small kitchens. Such stoves are usually equipped with two burners. Models with a width of 45 cm have mainly 3 burners. Induction cooking panels for 4 working zones are characterized by a size of 60 cm.

Plates for 5 burners have a width of more than 60 cm, and for 6 – 80 cm. Cooking surfaces differ in thickness. This value is in the range of 40-100 mm. The average is 60-70 mm. The shape of the structure can be made in the form of a triangle, square, polygon or semicircle.

The energy consumption of the panels is determined by the number of burners and their power. As a rule, the surfaces are characterized by different capacities of heating zones, where the maximum value can reach 3 kW, and the minimum value is 1 kW. The efficient and long-lasting operation of the induction panel is indicated by the marking A. Today, manufacturers are producing more advanced versions with an energy efficiency index of A+. The power of operation of such products is at a consistently good level.

Important! Some models are additionally equipped with settings to save electricity.

Cooking surfaces are characterized by different capacities of heating zones, where the maximum value can reach 3 kW, and the minimum – 1 kW

Depending on the features of the surface location, you can choose a dependent or independent option. In the first case, it is assumed that the equipment is mounted strictly under the oven of the same manufacturer. An independent option provides for the installation of a stove in any convenient place in the kitchen, regardless of the location of the oven.

Selection of an induction hob by the number of burners

Built-in induction panels differ in the number of burners. Models with one or two working zones are called “dominoes”. They are represented by compact portable or embedded modules. Such plates are most often purchased for a cottage or for a family consisting of 1-2 people. The panel for 2 work areas is chosen by those who want to save kitchen space and those who do not spend a lot of time cooking. Such a surface has small dimensions, so it does not clutter the interior. However, it is convenient to cook on it by placing the necessary dishes.

For families of 3-4 people, you should choose a built-in induction cooking 4-burner panel with working zones of different diameters, which will allow you to place different-sized dishes on it and cook several dishes at the same time. Such models are the most popular, therefore they are presented in a wide variety of species and design.

For families of several people, you should choose an induction hob of 4 burners with working zones of different diameters

Those who consider cooking to be their hobby and spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing various dishes will appreciate the cooking surfaces for 5-6 burners.

Important! Such models are characterized by quite impressive dimensions, which requires a lot of free space.

Size and shape of working areas in induction cooking built-in panels

The burners can be placed on the surface in different ways: in one row, in the form of a square, rhombus, semicircle or triangle. Choosing a non-standard location of work areas, you should have an idea of how convenient a particular option will be. The elements of the dishes located on adjacent burners should not interfere with each other.

Important! The container, which is located on any heating zone, must be provided with free access.

Dishes located on adjacent burners during cooking should not interfere with each other

When deciding which induction hob to choose, the size of the burner is considered an important aspect. The standard diameter for induction models is 14-21 cm. This parameter should correspond to the size of the cookware, because if its bottom covers the burner by less than 70%, the stove will not turn on. In modern models, the heating zones can automatically adjust to the diameter of the bottom of the dishes.

Useful advice! The best solution is an induction hob with burners of different diameters, which will allow you to use different dishes.

Burners can have not only a round shape. On sale you can find models with diamond-shaped, square or hexagonal working zones. The shape of the burner does not have the slightest effect on the functionality of the stove and is exclusively decorative.

The designations of the working areas may also differ. Their surface can be monophonic, multicolored, and also has a cross applied in the middle of the heating zone. The most expensive surfaces are distinguished by burners with a display along their contour, thanks to which it is possible to determine the power of the heating zone at the moment and the amount of time left until the end of the cooking process.

The shape of the burner does not affect the functionality of the stove and is exclusively decorative

How to choose an induction hob: product functionality

Choosing the best induction hob, it is important to study the functional features of the product, the number of which determines the cost of the stove. Any surface has the ability to smoothly adjust the power level, thanks to which it is possible to set and maintain the necessary temperature conditions. Their number can vary from 5 to 17.

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Those who cannot quickly adapt to a new method of cooking should pay attention to the combined electric and induction cooking panels. For families with young children, the control lock function is vital. The option of determining the size of the bottom of the dishes will help you choose the appropriate power mode. The possibility of a protective auto-off will allow you to turn off the device at the moment the liquid flows out of the pan. The residual heat indicator will show how cold the surface is.

Important! To determine which dishes are suitable for induction cooktops, a magnet that should be brought to its bottom will help.

Any surface of the induction cooker has the ability to smoothly adjust the power level

For convenient operation of the plate, an important component element is a timer, thanks to which it is quite easy to set up the beginning and end of the surface work. For more comfortable use, it can be equipped with an audio signal. Some models have a smart timer in their functionality, which gives the command to turn off the heating a few minutes before the end of the set cooking time. This option prevents the dish from drying out under the influence of residual heat.

Important! The cooking timer can be set individually for each burner.

Quite interesting and in demand is the Power Boost function, which allows you to increase the power of one of the burners by using the capabilities of neighboring heating zones. By setting the required values, you can control the heating temperature. Power Management mode provides control of energy consumption. The necessary resource consumption rate is set in the device’s memory – and the panel is automatically configured to work in the specified mode.

The Stop&Go function will allow you to briefly interrupt the cooking process for 3 minutes. After pressing again, the surface operation will resume in the specified mode. Some models are equipped with the option of maintaining a thermal regime, which is convenient for families whose members return home at different times.

The Power Boost function allows you to increase the power of one of the burners by using the capabilities of neighboring heating zones

Rating of induction cooktops 2018: price, quality of models from world manufacturers

Today, on the shelves of stores you can find a large assortment of induction cookers characterized by high quality and a wide range of functions, produced under such global brands as Bosch, Siemens, Electrolux, Gorenje, Gefest, Hansa and Ariston.

The induction hob Gorenje IS 677 USC is the embodiment of the ideal price-quality ratio. The model has 4 burners, touch control with smooth adjustment of heating modes. The stove is equipped with a residual heat indicator, auto-off, Power Boost Supreme function, which combines the standard 4 heating zones into 2 large ones.

Thanks to the SuperSilent option, quiet operation of the stove is ensured. The surface is made of corrugated glass ceramics. The hob Gorenje is equipped with a countdown timer with automatic shutdown, which allows you not to worry about the cooking process, which will stop after a specified period of time. You can buy such a model for 43 thousand rubles.

The Hotpoint Ariston KRC640X hob is equipped with 10 power adjustment modes

The induction hob Hotspot Ariston KRC640X is popular. The glass-ceramic surface has 4 heating zones of different diameters. The stove is equipped with 10 power adjustment modes. The PerfectFry option makes it possible to set the temperature necessary for cooking a particular dish. The model is characterized by an ergonomic design that fans of simplicity and accessibility of kitchen appliances will appreciate. The cost of the model is 28 thousand rubles.

When deciding which cooking panel to choose, many prefer the Hansa BHI68608 induction surface. The manufacturer offers an improved model with advanced functionality at an affordable cost. A distinctive feature of the panel is a durable and scratch-resistant glass-ceramic corrugated coating.

The power of the product is 7.4 kW. The model is equipped with a “bridge” function, thanks to which the burners in the left zone can be combined to allow cooking in large dishes. The stove has two timers: one of them regulates the overall process, and the second – cooking on separate burners.

The induction panel cooking Gorenje IS 677 USC is the embodiment of the ideal price-quality ratio

Electrolux cooktops: distinctive features of the models

One of the most popular manufacturers in the world is considered to be the company Electrolux. Induction cooktops of a well-known manufacturer are characterized by a wide variety of species, have a different number of functions. There are mandatory options for step-by-step adjustment of power and temperature, auto-off, control lock and timer.

The surface of the products is made of corrugated reinforced glass ceramics, so that the dishes will not slide on it. Special steel linings contribute to long-term operation without defects and scratches.

The company also produces combined models with induction or electric burners and gas burners. A feature of some models is the presence of a Wok heating zone, which has a special recess in which a frying pan with a convex bottom is installed. The main disadvantage of the Electrolux cooktops is the high cost of the product and spare parts.

Electrolux is considered one of the world’s most popular manufacturers of cooking surfaces

Which are better: Electric induction cooking panels

Among the popular induction built-in 4-burner cooking surfaces of this company are the EHH 96340 XK, EHH 96240 IK, EHI 96540 FS, EHO 98840 FG, EHI 96540 FW models. The plates are equipped with an expanded set of functions and have a stylish appearance. The cost of panels is in the range of 30-45 thousand rubles.

The Electrolux EHG 96341FK model occupies a leading position in the rating of the best combined type induction cooktops. The surface of the standard size is presented in black. There are four burners, of which the two far ones are traditional electric, and the front ones are induction. The panel is controlled by a touch-sensitive electronic unit.

The model is equipped with a timer, indication of the presence of residual heat, auto-off and control lock functions, PowerBoost modes (to increase the power of one of the zones) and Stop&Go (to delay the operation of the surface). You can buy a panel for 34.5 thousand rubles.

Another popular combined model with gas burners is the Electrolux EGD 6576 NOK panel, which is equipped with a locking function, a residual heat indicator, electric ignition, gas control and a timer. This stove is considered an ideal option for country houses and cottages. You can buy the product for 34 thousand rubles.

There are four burners on the panel of the Electrolux EHG 96341FK model, of which two are traditional electric and two are induction

Characteristics of Bosch induction cooktops

Plates that are original in design and have advanced functionality are offered by the world-famous manufacturer Bosch. Induction cooktops can have a different number of burners. There are combined models in which 1-2 working zones work in HiLight mode.

Useful advice! It is better to entrust the repair of induction cooktops to a specialist.

The glass-ceramic surface is equipped with electronic sensors that recognize the size of the dishes and select the required power level. For reliable and long-lasting operation, it has beveled edges or is framed around the perimeter. Some models differ in the oval shape of the heating zone, so that you can cook a dish on the surface in a duck house.

The Bosch PIF 645FB1E cooker occupies a worthy place in the rating of induction cooking panels in 2018. It has a standard size, 4 burners of different diameters, one of which is characterized by an oval expansion zone. The model is equipped with a 17-step power adjustment. It has two built–in timers: one is alarm, and the second is disabled for each working area. The maximum power of the stove is 7.4 kW.

Today, combined models of Bosch plates are quite in demand, in which 1-2 working zones work in HiLight mode

This model is equipped with an expanded set of functions – options for maintaining heat, an extended heating zone, a quick start, interrupting the cooking process, blocking children, and controlling energy consumption. The average cost of the panel is 40 thousand rubles.

Which are better: Bosch induction cooktops

There are numerous positive reviews of the Bosch PIC 645F17E induction hob of the combined type, in which two burners are electric. The power consumption of the product is 7.2 kW. The stove is equipped with 10 power adjustment modes, residual heat functions, auto-off, child lock and alarm timer. You can buy a combined model for 30 thousand rubles.

A stylish technology panel that is suitable for a large family is the Bosch PXX975DC1E model. On the black glass-ceramic surface there are 5 induction burners designed for dishes of any diameter. The largest heating zone is located in the center of the product. Paired burners at the edges of the surface can be combined into two large heating zones.

Induction hob Bosch PIC 645F17E combined type has numerous positive reviews

The stove is equipped with a 17-step power control, extended heating zone mode, options for monitoring energy consumption, interrupting work, maintaining heat, auto-disconnection and blocking from children. A distinctive feature of the model is the presence of the PanBoost function, which ensures that the stove is ready for frying quickly. There is a frying sensor, as well as automatic programs for it. The price of an induction hob is on average 85 thousand rubles.

Pros and cons of Siemens induction cooktops

The German manufacturer specializes in the manufacture of 4-burner induction panels. The surface of the models has infrared sensors that contribute to a fast cooking process. All functional units are equipped with reliable protection against overheating, voltage drops and external adverse effects.

Among the interesting models, the Siemens EH651FFB1E induction hob is popular. The stove is equipped with an oval burner with an expanded heating zone. The total power of the product is 7.4 kW. The stove has a timer, an auto-off indicator, a residual heat option, a child lock mode, 15 power adjustment modes. The average cost of the model is 35 thousand rubles.

The surface of the Siemens models has infrared sensors that facilitate the fast cooking process

In the rating of induction cooktops of the German manufacturer, a worthy place belongs to the Siemens EX675LXC1E model. The stove has four burners of different diameters. The surface is equipped with the PowerMove Plus function, which allows you to adjust the intensity of the cooking process, the fryingSensor sensor, necessary to adjust the roasting level. The useful Dual lightSlider option allows the plate to intuitively manage expansion zones. You can buy such a stove for 38 thousand rubles.

One of the popular large–sized panels is the Siemens EH875SC11E model, equipped with 5 burners, one of which is double-circuit, which allows you to reduce or increase the heating zone depending on the diameter of the dishes, the other is oval, which makes it possible to use a duck house or a fish dish. The nominal power of the plate is 7.3 kW. You can buy such a model for 48 thousand rubles.

Popular Hephaestus Induction Cooktops

A large size range of induction cookers at an affordable price is offered by the Belarusian company Hephaestus. Both standard models with 4 burners and compact panels with two heating zones, which are very popular, are presented here. All stoves are equipped with a touch control panel, residual heat indication, locking and automatic shutdown functions.

The Belarusian company Hephaestus offers cooktops at an affordable price

Among compact models, the 2-burner induction hob Gefest PVI 4001 with a black glass-ceramic surface is popular. The power of the stove is 3.7 kW. A feature of the stove is the presence of an accelerated heating function, which allows you to shorten the cooking process. The cost of the panel is 12 thousand rubles.

Among the traditional surfaces, the white induction hob Gefest CH 4232 K12 can be distinguished. It has burners of different diameters, which are designed for any cookware. The panel is equipped with a minimum number of functions, including an indication of residual heat, an auto-off program, 8 power adjustment modes and a timer. The price of the product is 15 thousand rubles.

An interesting model is the Gefest 4322 panel with 5 burners. The stove has an expanded set of functions, which allows you to quickly and comfortably implement any culinary masterpieces. The surface has a 15-step power adjustment. The price of the product is 27 thousand rubles.

The white induction hob Gefest CH 4232 K12 has burners of different diameters, which are suitable for dishes of any size

The best models for 2 burners of induction cooktops

The leading position in the rating of the best induction cooktops of 2018 in the domino format is occupied by the premium Siemens EX375FXB1E cooker. The surface of the product is made of black glass ceramics. It has a beveled facade with stainless steel framing on the sides. Each of the two induction burners has two oval indicators, which makes it possible to distribute dishes more evenly and accurately on the surface.

Thanks to the Flex Induction option, three heating zones can be created on the surface. The model has 17 degrees of power, timer, PowerBoost function, child protection, indicators of energy consumption and residual heat. This hob can be integrated into the countertop or combined with other surfaces of a similar profile. You can buy such an induction panel for 40 thousand UAH.

From the average price category, a two-burner induction hob Gorenje IT 332 CSC with a black glass-ceramic surface can be distinguished. Each burner is equipped with an individual heating regulator and a residual heat indicator. The power of the stove is 3.6 kW. It has auto-lock and child protection modes. The cost of the product is 23 thousand rubles.

The Siemens EX375FXB1E model is considered to be the best induction hob of 2018 in the domino format

Of the inexpensive induction surfaces of the domino type, the LEX EVI 320 BL model is popular. Despite the low cost, the stove is equipped with the necessary set of functions. Consumers note the high-quality assembly of the product and a pleasant design. You can buy such a panel for 11 thousand rubles.

Induction cooktops have a number of significant advantages over other stoves, which puts them in a leading position in the rating of ergonomic, comfortable and functional household appliances. Among a wide range of models that are equipped with a different set of functions, you can choose the most acceptable option that will fully satisfy the customer’s needs.