Induction cooktops and ranges offer big advantages, but a few downsides as well.
Besides the old standbys of gas and electric, we are seeing more and more Kirkland area homeowners choose induction cooktops and ranges for their next kitchen renovation. Every induction cooktop and induction range delivers fast cooktop heat and excellent simmering, and they are a great addition to any kitchen. Here’s what you need to know before considering buying an induction cooktop or range.
Induction is a two-step process. An electromagnetic field below the glass cooktop surface produces the power and precision of the technology. It transfers current directly to magnetic cookware, causing it to heat up. The intermediate step of heating up a burner and then transferring the heat to the pot is cut out.
With prices dropping some induction ranges are selling for $1,000 or less. However, even though induction cooktops and ranges do tend to cost more than electric smooth tops, the difference in performance is considerable.
The Advantage of Induction
Far from popular opinion, induction cooktops can get hot. The cooking pot transfers the heat to the glass through conduction. Very much as some of the heat is transferred from the pan to the countertop when you put the pan down to rest. That heating stops when the pan is removed. A nice safety feature is that if you mistakenly turn on an induction burner with no pot on it, it won’t get hot.
What is the Right Cookware?
To find out if your existing cookware will work with an induction range, use a magnet. If it sticks strongly to the bottom of your pot it will work on an induction burner.
Look for pots and pans marked “induction compatible” when you are shopping for new cookware.
Thermometer Use
An induction cooktop can interfere with a digital meat thermometer. This is due to the magnetic field, so you may need to use an analog dial thermometer to solve the problem.
To ask us more about induction and the best induction ranges, contact us at Innovative Kitchen and Bath in Kirkland, WA.