Introduction
Induction ranges have become increasingly popular in recent years as an efficient and responsive alternative to traditional gas and electric ranges. With their sleek, modern designs and high-tech cooking features, induction ranges offer a number of benefits that make them a wise investment for many home cooks.
This comprehensive buyer’s guide provides an in-depth look at induction range technology, its unique advantages, what to look for when shopping for an induction range, and tips for making the transition from a traditional range to induction cooking. Read on to learn everything you need to know to decide if an induction range is right for your kitchen.
What is Induction Cooking?
Induction cooking uses electromagnetic energy to heat cookware directly, rather than relying on heat transfer from burning gas or electric coil elements.
An induction range contains smooth glass cooktops covering electromagnetic coils underneath the surface. When compatible cookware is placed on an active cooking zone, the coils create a magnetic field that induces an electric current in the cookware. The current flowing through the cookware instantly generates heat for faster, more energy-efficient cooking.
The glass surface of the cooktop remains cool to the touch, while the cookware reaches the set temperature very rapidly. Heat is generated in the cookware itself, rather than being radiated from hot coils or gas burners. This direct heating offers superior responsiveness, efficiency, and safety compared to gas or traditional electric ranges.
Benefits of Induction Cooking
Induction ranges offer a number of significant advantages over both gas and traditional electric cooking:
Speed
Induction cooking is extremely fast due to the direct and instantaneous heat it generates in the cookware. Boiling water is 25-50% faster on an induction range compared to gas or electric. The extra responsiveness gives you tighter control over heat levels for tasks like simmering delicate sauces or searing meat at high temperatures.
Efficiency
Induction ranges use electromagnetic energy rather than heat conduction, so they waste less energy and put around 85-90% of their power directly into the cookware. This makes them about 5-10% more efficient than the best gas ranges and 20-25% more efficient than standard electric ranges. You’ll spend less money and energy getting the same cooking results.
Cooler Cooktop
The glass surface of an induction cooktop only heats up indirectly through contact with hot cookware. It remains much cooler compared to the burners on a gas range or the coils on an electric range. This makes induction ranges safer to cook on and easier to clean up spills and messes.
Even Heating
The cookware itself is heated directly and evenly across the bottom when cooking on an induction range. You don’t get hot or cool spots like you can with gas range burners. This leads to more consistent results during cooking.
Precise Control
Induction burners allow very fine-tuned and rapid adjustments to heat levels. You can swiftly bring something to a boil and then dial it down to the perfect simmer for sensitive dishes. The technology reacts immediately when you change settings.
Automatic Cookware Detection
Induction ranges have built-in sensors that detect when a compatible piece of cookware is placed on a cooking zone and automatically turn on that element. The burner also shuts off automatically if cookware is removed. This prevents wasting energy and provides safety and convenience.
Considerations for Induction Cooking
While the advantages of induction cooking are significant, there are a few factors to keep in mind as you evaluate whether an induction range is right for your kitchen:
Cookware Requirements
Only cookware made from ferrous metals like cast iron or stainless steel will work on an induction range. The cookware must also have a flat bottom and be of an appropriate minimum size for the burner. Ceramic, copper, glass and aluminum cookware will not work unless there is a ferrous layer on the bottom.
High Upfront Cost
Quality induction ranges tend to be significantly more expensive than gas or basic electric ranges. However, you may recoup some of that cost over time due to induction’s superior energy efficiency.
No Open Flame
Unlike gas burners, induction elements don’t produce an open flame. Some cooking techniques rely on the open flame behavior and heat of gas stoves and will not work the same on induction.
Buzzing Noises
Induction burners produce a low-level humming or buzzing sound when active due to the vibrations from the electromagnetic coils. Some users find this distracting, while others tune it out.
Electronics Upkeep
Due to the electronic technology involved, induction ranges may require professional repairs if the internal electronics fail. Simpler gas or electric ranges can often be repaired at home more easily.
What to Look for When Buying an Induction Range
Here are the key factors and features to evaluate when shopping for an induction range:
Cooktop Layout
Consider the placement and configuration of the induction burner elements on the cooktop. Having flexible zone sizes that combine for larger cookware is convenient. Make sure the layout fits the sizes and quantities of pans you want to use simultaneously.
Power Levels
More cooking zones with higher maximum power levels give you more flexibility for fast boiling, searing, and cooking large batches. Look for a range with at least one very high-powered burner for quickly heating large pots.
Smart Cooktop Features
Many induction ranges now offer “smart” cooktops with integrated digital displays, touch controls, timer/temperature probe ports, and connectivity with cooking apps for added convenience.
Size and Configuration
Induction ranges come in standard or professional widths with 4, 5 or 6 burners. Make sure to get the right size and cooktop configuration for your kitchen space and preferences.
Easy Cleaning Features
Look for induction ranges promoted as having “one-swipe” or “flush-mount” cooktop installation for easy cleaning. Smooth cooktops without cracks make cleaning spills simple. Some models also offer self-cleaning oven features.
Style and Finish
Induction ranges come in a variety of premium materials and finishes like polished stainless steel and glass touchscreens. Consider options that match your kitchen’s decor. Professional-grade models typically have a more rugged, utilitarian look.
Safety Features
Advanced induction ranges have overflow/spillover sensors to automatically shut off burners if liquids are detected on control areas. Pot and pan sensors can also prevent accidents if cookware is empty. Look for child lock functions.
Warranty
Due to their higher price, you want an induction range with strong warranties of at least 1 year for parts and labor. Longer 5-10 year coverage for major components indicates a more reliable and better-backed product.
Top Induction Range Brands
Here are some of the best induction range brands to consider across different price points:
- Miele – Top-of-the-line, pro-grade appliances with excellent power and build quality. Miele induction ranges provide superior performance.
- Wolf – Sophisticated, commercial-inspired designs built to professional chef standards for serious home cooks.
- Bosch – Available at lower price points but maintaining sturdy construction and great cooking capabilities.
- Electrolux – Reliable induction ranges covering both affordable and luxury kitchens. Strong at balancing performance, conveniences and aesthetics.
- Frigidaire – Trusted brand name with more budget-friendly induction range options compared to premium brands.
- Fisher & Paykel – Creative minimalist designs with smart technology features for eco-conscious consumers.
- GE Profile – Well-rated induction ranges with advanced features from a leading appliance manufacturer.
- LG – Wide range of competitively priced induction ranges from this electronics innovator. Focus on “smart” tech integration.
- KitchenAid – Combining stylish design and high culinary performance, including some dual-fuel induction+gas range options.
- Bosch – Mix high-end cooking technology and quality materials with intuitive controls and reasonable prices.
Induction Cooking Tips and Techniques
Switching from gas or standard electric to an induction range means adapting some of your cooking techniques. Here are some handy tips for getting the most from your induction range:
- Use heavy-bottomed stainless steel or enameled cast iron cookware to take advantage of induction’s fast and even heating.
- Bring liquids to a boil faster by using cookware with a broader, rather than taller, base. This exposes more surface area to the induction burner.
- Use lower heat settings than gas or electric and check food frequently to avoid burning until you’re accustomed to induction’s responsiveness.
- Don’t drag cookware across the cooktop surface which can scratch the glass. Always lift and set down carefully.
- Handwash delicate induction cooktops. Avoid abrasive cleaning pads and use non-abrasive ceramic glass cleaner.
- For best results with low-power simmering, use lids and match the pan size to the diameter of the burner.
- Preheat thick cast iron pans for longer before adding cooking oils to prevent sticking. The material takes longer to evenly heat up.
- Magnetic grills are available to allow non-ferrous cookware like aluminum griddles to work on an induction cooktop.
- Avoid stacking wet cookware on the cooktop while cooking other items or moisture damage may occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cookware work on an induction range?
- Iron
- Stainless steel
- Enameled cast iron
- Magnetic stainless steel
Aluminum, copper, glass and ceramic cookware will NOT work unless they have a magnetic steel layer on the bottom. Look for induction-compatible labels when shopping for pots and pans.
Is induction cooking safe for my pacemaker or other implanted medical devices?
Induction ranges produce very low-level electromagnetic fields which have not been shown to interfere with medical implants like pacemakers when appliance safety guidelines are followed. Consult your device manufacturer or doctor for specific guidance. Keep implants at least 1 foot from active induction burners just to be safe.
Why do my pots make noise when cooking on an induction range?
Some cookware can vibrate from the magnetic field induction burners generate, producing a buzzing or clicking sound. Heavier, flat-bottomed pans lessen this effect. Pans with warped, uneven bottoms vibrate more. Scrubbing the pan bottom can remove debris causing vibrations. The noise is harmless but can be annoying to some users.
Do induction ranges require special wiring or electrical work?
In most cases, an induction range can be plugged into a standard 240V household outlet just like an electric range, without rewiring. Large, powerful commercial-style induction ranges may require special wiring. Consult an electrician if your home has a lower voltage supply.
Can I use my existing cookware on an induction range?
You’ll need to use induction-compatible cookware made from steel, cast iron or enameled steel for best performance. Some newer aluminum and stainless sets work if magnets stick to the bottom. Very lightweight pans with thin bases also won’t work well. Mixing and matching new induction-suitable pots and pans is the ideal approach.
Do induction ranges emit harmful EMF radiation? Is it safe?
Induction ranges comply with all state and federal regulations regarding electromagnetic emissions, which are far below any demonstrated risk levels. No scientific evidence indicates any risk to humans from induction ranges when used properly.
Conclusion
Induction cooking provides faster, more precise, and efficient cooking compared to gas and traditional electric ranges. The technology has evolved to offer smart cooking capabilities and convection oven features in sleekly designed packages. With some upfront investment and adaptation to new cookware and techniques, induction ranges are an exceptional upgrade over outdated range technology for most cooking needs. This buyer’s guide covers all the key benefits, features, brands and purchasing factors so you can make the best choice for your kitchen.