Induction Cooktops
Purchasing an Induction Cooktop could save you money
Induction hobs have solid top plates made of vitro-ceramic material which provide heat only when pans are put on them and which stop heating immediately the pans are removed.
With induction cooking a high frequency generator drives current through an inductive coil, which sets up an alternating electromagnetic field. When a utensil with a magnetic base is placed on the hob a current is induced in the pan. The magnitude of the induced current depends on the amplitude and frequency of the current flowing in the inductive coil. It is the induced current that causes the heating of the pan.
This means that far more efficient use is made of the energy than with conventional cooking equipment. Since the ceramic top is not magnetic but merely a tray to stand the pots and pans on it never heats up.
If a pan of water is to be brought to the boil there is no delay waiting for the top to heat up. The transmission of energy through the pan is immediate. When shallow frying, cold oil and the food can be put into the pan together without affecting the quality of the food, as the speed of heating is so rapid.
In tests induction hobs have made savings in energy consumed of up to 75% when compared to normal resistive electric elements and up to 50% savings in energy when compared to other fuels.
Advantages of Induction Cooking
- Energy savings of 50% to 75%
- Faster cooking times, brings liquids to the boil quickly
- High degree of control possible
- Easy maintenance
- Hygienic and easy to clean
- Safe. All of the heat is generated in the pan so the hob stays cool to the touch. This prevents flash fires from oil spills. Also pan handles do not heat up
- Improved working environment. As the heat goes only into the pan and not into the atmosphere, kitchens are cooler.
Approximate prices: $1500 (2 hob) to $2,500+ (4 hob)
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