Looking for advice on induction cooktops and electric ovens.

November 1, 2011 8:59 AM

Looking for advice on induction cooktops and electric ovens.

We love what we saw with the induction cooktop we were able to demo in-store, but aren't sure how much reliability and function varies between brands.

The model we demoed had a definite hum. Are some models quieter than others? Can you store pots and pans (containing iron) below any of them? Are there any hidden issues that we should know about? Your experience and advice is much appreciated.

If you have any electric oven recommendations, I'd love to hear them as well.

Thanks!

posted by crumbly to Shopping (3 answers total)

Ours hums too...you get used to it. I don't think there is a problem with pots and pans in cabinets below the countertop. We have that arrangement and have no problems. The only hidden issue I know of is that of the flatness of the bottom of your cookware. We found that a couple of our cast iron skillets are actually slightly bowed on the bottom, so that only a small portion of the bottom surface of the pan is in contact with the cooker's surface. This does not work well. So those pans are relegated to the gas stove and only the ones that are very flat get used on the induction surface. BTW, we have many pots and pans that work well on the cooker, but the cast iron is absolutely the best.
posted by txmon at 9:38 AM on November 1, 2011

The only hidden issue I know of is that of the flatness of the bottom of your cookware. We found that a couple of our cast iron skillets are actually slightly bowed on the bottom, so that only a small portion of the bottom surface of the pan is in contact with the cooker's surface.

+1
posted by zombieApoc at 9:52 AM on November 1, 2011

This site is a good source for people wanting to know more about induction cooking.

Can you store pots and pans (containing iron) below any of them?
Yes - this should not be a problem. There is a whole bunch of circuitry aimed at making sure you heat only the pan on the hob - not your ring, watch or anything else. Induction hobs are also shallower than other types - meaning that you will have more storage space.

Humming: The volume of the humming is proportional to the amount of power you are directing at a pan. On my cooker the humming is only audible when going at, or near, full power. Then cooking on lower power you might hear a light clicking as the power automatically pulses on and off
posted by rongorongo at 11:05 AM on November 1, 2011