We can't deny that technology has made our lives easier, especially when it comes to cooking. Today there are multiple kitchen appliances that are used in the kitchen to heat, process, and cook food in less time. Many people have even replaced their traditional gas stove with electric induction cooktops. An induction cooktop serves the same purpose as a gas stove, which is heating and cooking food. However, these run on electricity rather than gas. These are easy to use and also portable, unlike a gas stove. There are certain important points that one needs to consider while buying an induction cooktop.
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Here Are 8 Factors You Must Consider While Buying An Induction Cooktop:
1. Size Of Storage Space
The first step is to check the size of the space where you want to place it at home. Ensure to measure the dimensions of the place before you head out to the shop. You don't want to end up buying a big induction cooktop for a smaller space.
Inductions come in different sizes. Photo Credit: unsplash
2. Compatibility Of The Inductions
Not all inductions work well with all cookware. Some inductions only heat cookware that have an induction-friendly bottom. However, some inductions heat all kinds of utensils, even the ones that do not have a heating plate at the bottom.
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3. Pan Size
Induction cooktops are available in minimum and maximum pan sizes. The pan size is the size of the heating plate of the induction which heats the food. If the bottom of your cookware is small or too big, the cooktop will not detect the pan and it will not heat the pan. It is important to match the pan size with that of your cookware that you normally use.
4. Power Capacity
The functioning of an induction cooktop depends on the wattage. If the wattage is higher, it will function faster. But it totally depends on what you want to use it for. Is it just for heating food or for cooking full meals? If you want to cook a proper meal, then you should buy an induction between 1000-2000 watts of power.
5. Pre-Set Menu
If you are not familiar with cooking process and time taken to cook specific dishes on induction cooktops, buy a cooktop with pre-set menu. A pre-set menu is inbuilt in the induction cooktop. Depending on what you want to cook, the pre-set menu adjusts its timer. Just click on the available options that match your dish and you can cook easily.
6. Timer
The timer is a basic feature that almost all inductions have. This function is used to start and end the cooking or heating process. The time limit can vary from one model to another. If you plan to cook extensive meals that require a lot of time to cook, go for inductions that have that much range.
7. Safety Features
Many modern induction cooktops come with safety features. They have auto heat detection which checks the heat of the pan and turn off the heating process automatically as soon as the pan gets too hot. Make sure to buy the cooktop that has such features.
8. Portable Design
In the market, both portable induction cooktops and fixed cooktops are available. Depending on your preference, you can choose either of these. A portable induction is easy to carry anywhere and can be fixed in a place where there is power available. However, you cannot move the fixed cooktop as per your need. So pick the one as per your requirement.
These are some basic factors to look for if you plan to buy an induction cooktop. Hope you found it helpful. Share your thoughts in the comment section below.