There was a time when induction cooktops were almost the darling of the kitchen. However, there are people who wouldn’t buy an induction cooktop even “for all the money in the world” due to the following 5 reasons:
1. Induction Cooktops are Picky About Pots and Pans
The first reason why many people dislike induction cooktops is that they are quite picky when it comes to cookware. In many cases, the cooktop will not detect the pot or pan, and you will have to use cookware with compatible materials.
Specifically, pots or pans made of copper or aluminum, or cast iron, will not work on an induction cooktop. Additionally, if the bottom of the cookware is not flat, it will not work on the cooktop either.
Induction cooktops only work with cookware that has a magnetic metal base. If you are switching from a gas or electric stove to an induction one, you will have to invest in a new set of pots and pans with magnetic bases or heat transfer discs. This can add up to a significant extra cost.
2. Prone to Burning the Bottom of Pots and Pans
The second reason why induction cooktops are falling out of favor is that they can easily burn the bottom of pots and pans. Induction cooktops generate heat through their surface, so when the surface comes into contact with the bottom of a pot or pan, the heat dissipation is relatively high.
As a result, the temperature of the bottom of the cookware will increase rapidly compared to the sides. During cooking, if you don’t stir or attend to the food promptly, you will likely find that the bottom has burned. This can cause the food to have a burnt smell, make it difficult to clean the cookware, and increase the risk of damaging the cookware due to the need for vigorous scrubbing to remove burnt-on food.
3. Cooking Interruption During Power Outages
This is one of the main concerns for users when it comes to induction cooktops. In the event of a power outage, an induction cooktop cannot be substituted with any other fuel source unless you have a backup generator.
However, if the power output from the generator is too low, it may not be sufficient to power the induction cooktop. In such cases, your cooking process will be interrupted, which can be frustrating.
4. Inaccurate Temperature Control
Another reason why induction cooktops are becoming less popular is their inability to provide accurate temperature control. While induction cooktops offer multiple temperature settings, you may find that even after adjusting the temperature, the desired effect is not achieved.
Due to the high heating speed of induction cooktops, the temperature change after adjustment may not be as significant as expected. In this case, further adjustments are usually made to the highest or lowest setting. However, even at the highest or lowest setting, the ideal state may still not be achieved.
5. High Price
Induction cooktops come in a wide range of prices, from a few hundred thousand to several million Vietnamese Dong. This is also considered a disadvantage of induction cooktops, making many people hesitant to purchase them.
So, Which Cooktop is the Best Choice: Induction, Gas, Electric, or Infrared?
When choosing a cooktop, consider the following three criteria: the heating characteristics of the cooktop, its power output and cost, and its cleanliness and safety.
– Choose the cooktop that best suits your family’s cooking preferences.
If your family enjoys stir-fried and fried dishes, a gas cooktop is the way to go. Gas cooktops produce an open flame that envelops the entire bottom and sides of the wok or pan. The technique of flicking the wok during stir-frying allows the flame to lick the sides, evaporating the oil and making the dish more flavorful. However, gas cooktops are more prone to flameouts (especially when using a range hood or exhaust fan), and prolonged cooking can result in higher fuel consumption compared to the other types of cooktops.
If your family prefers stews and braised dishes, an induction cooktop is a good choice. Induction cooktops are not inferior to gas cooktops in terms of power output and can reach high temperatures quickly. While they don’t have an open flame, they are less likely to char or burn food, making meals healthier. For stewing and braising, induction cooktops directly transfer heat to the bottom of the pot, ensuring efficient and consistent heating. Induction cooktops also offer precise temperature control with specific power settings.
Infrared cooktops are similar to induction cooktops in that they don’t use an open flame. Instead, they use infrared rays to heat a halogen lamp, which then heats a glass-ceramic cooktop. Therefore, infrared cooktops are ideal for families who frequently cook stews, soups, and braised dishes. Infrared cooktops are more expensive than induction cooktops but offer more flexibility as they don’t require a dedicated set of pots and pans.
Electric cooktops are the least efficient for cooking. They take longer to heat up and don’t maintain a consistent heat level like gas cooktops. Stirring or tossing food can result in uneven heating. While electric cooktops are suitable for stewing and braising, they consume significantly more electricity compared to induction cooktops.
– Consider the power output, cost, and energy efficiency of the cooktop.
Induction cooktops require a higher initial investment compared to the other two types, and you’ll need to purchase a compatible set of pots and pans. However, for a family of four cooking daily meals, an induction cooktop is the most cost-effective option. It saves both energy and cooking time.
Gas cooktops are relatively inexpensive, but you’ll need to continuously replace the gas cylinders when they run out. Many cooks have experienced the inconvenience of running out of gas mid-cooking. Additionally, gas cooktops pose a higher risk of fire and explosions due to gas leaks or faulty hoses. Moreover, gas cylinders are bulky and take up valuable storage space, making them unsuitable for small kitchens.
Electric cooktops are the most time-consuming and costly in terms of energy consumption. Cooking with an electric cooktop at the same power output as an induction cooktop takes twice as long and consumes three times as much electricity.
Infrared cooktops are the most expensive option, but they offer more flexibility than induction cooktops as they don’t require a dedicated set of cookware. Infrared cooktops also cook food 50% faster than gas and electric cooktops and consume 75% less energy.
– Consider the cleanliness and safety of the cooktop.
Induction cooktops have a completely flat surface, making them easy to clean and resistant to water damage. However, when installing a built-in induction cooktop, ensure that the adhesive between the cooktop and the countertop is properly sealed to prevent water from seeping into the joint. The cooktop itself doesn’t get hot, and the heat is instantly cut off when the pot is removed. If food spills or splatters onto the cooktop, simply wipe it off with a damp cloth or a mild detergent solution. The surface of the cooktop is also less prone to scratches.
Infrared cooktops retain heat for a longer period after cooking, so caution is necessary in households with young children. Any spills or liquids on the cooktop can be easily wiped off with a cotton cloth. However, it’s important to wait for the cooktop to cool down before cleaning. Additionally, since the cooktop uses a glass-ceramic surface, care must be taken to avoid scratches or cracks when placing pots and pans on the surface.
Gas cooktops are difficult to clean and require time-consuming scrubbing and rinsing. Built-in gas cooktops with wall-mounted gas lines are challenging to maintain, and direct gas lines leave holes in the countertop, creating potential entry points for water and food debris. Cleaning a gas cooktop often involves cleaning not only the cooking surface but also the cabinet space below.
Electric cooktops are prone to scratches and stains, and the more they are used, the more noticeable these blemishes become.
The Power Hungry Six: Uncover the Hidden Energy Guzzlers in Your Home
These are the most power-hungry electrical appliances in your home. Always unplug them after use to save on energy consumption.
The Modern Kitchen Revolution: Why More Homes Are Moving Away From Gas Stoves
Many people are wary of using gas stoves, primarily due to safety concerns. There have been instances of gas leaks and even explosions caused by improper use, which has led to a sense of apprehension among some users. While these stoves are a common fixture in many households, it’s essential to acknowledge and address these valid safety worries.
The Great Kitchen Debate: Electric or Gas Stovetops—Which is the More Cost-Effective Option for Your Family?
Sure, I can assist you with that.
Each type of kitchen stove has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.
Energy Saving Tips for Electric Stove Users: A Guide for the Savvy Home Cook
Introducing: The Ultimate Guide to Saving Electricity When Using an Electric Stove.
Electric stoves are convenient, but they can be a drain on your wallet. However, with these clever tips and tricks, you can master the art of cooking efficiently and minimize your electricity usage. Discover the secrets to harnessing the power of your electric stove without breaking the bank. Learn how to make your kitchen greener and your bills lower. It’s time to cook smart and save!
Should You Unplug Your Electric Stove After Use?
For many households, electric cookers have become a common appliance. It’s a frequently asked question whether one should unplug the cooker after use. Well, wonder no more! This article will reveal all.
