Induction cooktops are a modern and efficient way of cooking that utilizes electromagnetic fields to heat up the cooking vessel directly. This innovative technology provides an impressive energy efficiency of up to 90%, far surpassing the 40-60% efficiency of traditional gas stoves.
While induction cooktops are very safe, mistakes in usage can lead to potential hazards.
The intelligent functionality of induction cooktops ensures maximum efficiency, saving users time and money.
One of the standout advantages of induction cooktops is their superior safety compared to gas stoves, significantly reducing the risk of fire, explosions, or gas leaks. Induction cooktops do not produce harmful gases like CO and CO2, and modern models feature insulated glass surfaces that prevent electrical leakage, ensuring the user’s safety.
However, incorrect usage can reduce the lifespan of induction cooktops and potentially cause accidents.
Infrequent Usage
In humid climates, like in Vietnam, infrequent usage of induction cooktops can lead to moisture infiltration, causing short circuits in the appliance’s circuitry. Therefore, it is recommended to use the cooktop regularly to maintain its longevity.
Immediate Power Disconnection After Use
Some users have a habit of immediately unplugging the cooktop or turning off the circuit breaker after use. This practice does not allow the cooktop to dissipate heat properly, potentially damaging its electrical components. It is advisable to wait for 15-30 minutes after turning off the cooktop to let the internal fan continue running, helping the appliance cool down. Only then should you unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker.
However, it is important not to leave the cooktop continuously connected to the power source after use. Even when cooled down, the cooktop still consumes a small amount of electricity for the control panel, and completely cutting the power reduces the risk of electrical leakage, ensuring the family’s safety.
Immediate power disconnection can lead to potential damage to the induction cooktop.
Constantly Cooking at High Power
Not adjusting the temperature while cooking is a common mistake that not only affects the quality of the meal but also damages the cooktop. Many users are unaware of how to properly use the Booster function, which temporarily increases power for 5-10 minutes before returning to the normal level. Manufacturers recommend using Booster for no more than 10 minutes at a time to prevent overheating and protect the cooktop’s longevity. Constantly cooking at high power can reduce the cooktop’s lifespan and even cause the glass surface to crack due to excessive heat.
Placing Wet Pots and Pans on the Cooktop
A common oversight is placing wet cookware on the induction cooktop. Regular tap water contains a small amount of calcium, and continuously placing wet pots and pans on the cooktop will lead to calcium buildup, affecting the cooktop’s ability to detect the cookware. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly dry the cookware before placing it on the cooktop to minimize calcium residue.
Additionally, if calcium buildup occurs over time, it is crucial to address it promptly. The most effective and straightforward solution is to clean the cooktop with suitable cleaning agents.
Placing wet cookware on the cooktop can affect its aesthetics and reduce its lifespan.
Turning on the Cooktop Without Food in the Pot
Over 80% of respondents in a survey admitted to turning on the induction cooktop before adding food to the pot, mainly to heat the pot or oil. However, induction cooktops heat up very quickly, and this waiting period leads to unnecessary electricity consumption and pot deterioration.
To prevent waste and maintain pot quality, it is essential to break this habit. High-end induction cooktops now feature alerts or automatic shut-off mechanisms when the pot is empty, reducing the risk of pot damage due to the cooktop’s rapid heating.
Keep the induction cooktop away from electronic devices, and avoid turning it on without food in the pot.
Placing the Induction Cooktop Near Electronic Devices
Proximity to other electronic devices can cause interference due to radiation emissions. Therefore, in addition to maintaining a 10-15 cm distance from the wall during installation, it is crucial to keep the induction cooktop away from devices like TVs, laptops, refrigerators, and phones. While the radiation emitted by induction cooktops is very low and does not pose a health risk, it can interfere with the functioning of other devices and potentially affect the cooktop’s longevity.
During operation, the cooktop’s surface remains cool, but the pot’s bottom can get extremely hot, quickly transferring heat to the cooktop’s surface and any objects on it, posing a burn hazard. Additionally, it is unsafe to move the cooktop while in use, as it may accidentally come into contact with the hot pot. Most importantly, never place your hand on the cooktop during operation, as it can cause severe burns.
Source: Nguoi Dua Tin