Using an Induction Hob, a quick guide to get you going.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular as a safe, clean and easy way of cooking. What makes induction hobs special is how they transfer heat from themselves to the pan as there is no naked flame, and the hob itself does not get so hot.
They also require special pans to work since the hob uses a magnetic field to induce electric currents in the metal of the pan. Many pans aren’t made of materials that respond to the magnets, so they simply won’t get hot.
Choosing Pans For An Induction Hob
Only certain materials will work with an induction hob. To determine whether or not your pans will work, just hold a magnet near the bottom of the pan, and let go. If it sticks to the pan, the pot is magnetic and it will work with an induction hob.
Cast iron, steel and magnetic stainless steel pans will work with induction hobs. Aluminium, glass and copper pans will not as they are not magnetic. You may have seen ‘induction pans’ that are made of enamel or ceramic. These are specially made pans that have magnetic strips running through the base. They can heat up and transfer heat to the rest of the pan.
Not all stainless steel pans are suitable, only the ones that contain some iron will respond to the magnets in the hob.
Can You Heat An Empty Pan On An Induction Hob?
You can heat an empty pan by using induction. Depending on what the pan is made of, you might find that there is some reduced heating effect further up the pan if it is empty, but it should not be too noticeable because most pans are made of materials that conduct heat well.
Is it Cheaper To Boil A Kettle On An Induction Hob?
Induction hobs are incredibly fast at boiling water, and they offer great temperature control as well. In the past, it was significantly cheaper to boil a kettle using an induction hob than a gas hob, but gas prices have since gone down, so they are actually marginally more expensive for short periods of use. Induction hobs are safer, cleaner and better for longer use since they don’t waste heat.
Can You Use Induction Pans On a Gas Hob?
You can use an induction pan on a gas hob without any issues. In fact, a heavy-bottomed induction ready pan should be ideal for cooking on a normal electric hob or a gas hob.
Check Out Our Induction Hobs
View our full range of induction hobs, we also have outstanding lines of Ceramic, Electric and Gas Hobs to choose from too.
Looking for advice? Try our handy guides on all things hob related:
