Induction appliances blend the instant response time of gas stoves with the easier cleanup of electric stoves. Induction stoves are safer to operate, too. If you turn on a burner with no pot on it by mistake, it won’t get hot. Read on to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of induction stoves.
What’s an Induction Stove?
Induction cooktops and ranges generate an electromagnetic field below the surface. This causes specially designed magnetic cookware on top to heat up. These stoves do the same things that other stoves or ovens do, like broil and bake. Some of them have advanced features that include built-in temperature probes, Wi-Fi connectivity, warming drawers, and self-cleaning modes.
Benefits of Induction Stoves
Environmentally Friendly and Efficient
Induction stoves are environmentally friendly. They’re up to 10% more efficient than regular electric stoves, according to Consumer Reports. They’re better for indoor air quality and more efficient than gas stoves as well.
Safety
Induction stoves cool off quickly since they only heat up when the magnetic cookware touches the burner. Also, you don’t get radiant heat like with traditional electric ranges, so you won’t have to worry about burning yourself or children accidentally burning themselves.
Faster Cooking
Food cooks faster with induction stoves. Part of the reason for this is that there’s no need to heat up the elements and transfer the heat to the pot. According to Consumer Reports, a six-quart saucepan can heat up to a boil in just two to three minutes.
Drawbacks of Induction Stoves
It’s Not the Same as Gas
Induction cooking isn’t the same as cooking with gas. If you’re an avid fan of cooking with an open flame, an induction oven feels very different than what you’re used to. Some newer induction stoves have a virtual flame, although that’s still not the same as actual gas cooking.
It’s Costly to Convert From Gas
It can be a bit expensive when you convert from gas to electricity. If you’re replacing an electric range, however, it’s much easier to make the switch. Induction cooktops and ranges use the same outlet as a standard electric range or cooktop.
You May Need an Old-School Thermometer
Induction stoves may interfere with digital thermometers. You may end up needing a regular thermometer instead to get accurate readings.
It’s More of an Investment
Induction cooktops and ranges are usually more expensive than conventional electric models. However, you may be eligible for tax rebates — and prices are getting lower these days.
Contact Brian’s Appliance Repair in Forked River, NJ to learn more about stoves and ovens, including induction stoves and how they may work well for your household.
