The Do’s and Don’ts of Buying an Induction Cooktop: My Story of Trial and Error.

24 November, 2024

1. Opt for imported glass or domestic Type A glass instead of domestic Type B or C glass

The glass top is one of the most important components of an induction cooktop. It has to be sturdy, insulating, and waterproof. There are two main types of glass available on the market: imported and domestically produced.

Imported glass stands out for its durability, scratch resistance, heat resistance, low impurity content, and impact resistance. However, it tends to be more expensive and is typically used for high-end products.

On the other hand, domestic glass is categorized into three grades: A, B, and C, with A being the best. Type A glass is produced using a one-time firing process at a high temperature, resulting in a smooth surface free of cut marks.

Type B glass, which is not fired in a single firing process, requires cutting and grinding, resulting in cut marks on the surface and reduced durability compared to Type A. Type C glass is of the lowest quality, often used in inexpensive products, prone to yellowing, and may have printed patterns to hide imperfections.

Therefore, when choosing glass for your induction cooktop, go for imported glass or domestic Type A glass to ensure better quality and a superior user experience.

2. Choose a larger heating coil for better heat distribution

The heating coil, or induction coil, is the component that generates heat in an induction cooktop. The standard diameter of these coils ranges from 12 cm to 18 cm, with some higher-end models offering coils up to 20 cm.

The usability of an induction cooktop heavily depends on the size and material of the heating coil. Assuming the same power output, the most significant factor influencing the heat intensity is the diameter of the coil.

In general, a larger coil area means a larger heating area, resulting in more even heat distribution. Smaller coils tend to concentrate heat in the center, leading to uneven temperatures and potential scorching or burning of food in the center of the cookware.

Additionally, coils come in single or double layers, made of pure copper or aluminum-clad copper. Theoretically, double-layered coils are superior to single-layered ones, and pure copper wire outperforms aluminum wire due to its lower resistance, faster heating, and higher temperature increase.

When purchasing an induction cooktop, opt for one with a heating coil larger than 18 cm and preferably made of copper.

3. Continuous low heat cooking for even heat distribution

Induction cooktops on the market today primarily operate in two modes: continuous heating and intermittent heating. In theory, induction cooktops with a power output of 1000 watts or higher are capable of continuous heating.

When operating at low power, a continuous low heat setting will maintain a stable temperature without interruptions, resulting in even heat distribution. This is especially beneficial for cooking soups and stir-frying.

On the other hand, inexpensive induction cooktops often use an intermittent heating method, with a cycle of 4 seconds on and 4 seconds off. This leads to uneven heat distribution, resulting in fluctuating heat levels and potential burning of food.

If you cook regularly, you’ll definitely notice the difference. Therefore, it is recommended to choose an induction cooktop with a continuous low heat function to ensure optimal cooking performance.

4. Hidden fan for efficient cooling and easy maintenance

The cooling fan is an essential component of an induction cooktop, responsible for dissipating heat from the induction coil and control board, thus prolonging the lifespan of the appliance. There are two main types of cooling fans: hidden and exposed.

Hidden fans offer several advantages, including superior cooling efficiency, low noise levels, ease of cleaning, and prevention of insect ingress. In contrast, exposed fans are less efficient at cooling, produce more noise, and are more susceptible to insect intrusion. They also tend to accumulate dust and grease, making cleaning a challenging and time-consuming task.

For these reasons, it is advisable to choose an induction cooktop with a hidden fan for better performance and easier maintenance.

5. Choose a reputable brand with a good warranty for peace of mind

All electronic products are susceptible to malfunctions, and during the warranty period, consumers can avail of free repair services. However, once the warranty expires, they have to bear the cost of repairs.

Therefore, it is wise to invest in a reputable brand that offers a comprehensive warranty with nationwide service centers. This way, repairs will be more convenient and cost-effective.

Additionally, induction cooktops with knobs are less convenient than those with buttons, as knobs are more prone to damage. Ultra-thin induction cooktops have inferior cooling efficiency and a higher risk of malfunction, so consumers should carefully consider their options before making a purchase.