Induction hob: a functional appliance for modern kitchens

The induction hob is an excellent solution for modern kitchens. It, in comparison with other slabs, is characterized by a lot of advantages. Before purchasing this type of hob, you should study the principle of its operation and the features of operation. In the article below, the pros and cons of induction panels are described in detail, a list of recommendations for choosing a product is given and a brief overview of models of cookers from well-known manufacturers is made.

The induction hob has a glass-ceramic surface, under which there are electromagnetic coils made of copper wire

Hob induction: features of the household appliance

Today, manufacturers offer a wide range of hobs, which differ in the principle of operation, operating conditions, size, functionality and design. Each option is characterized by its own peculiarities, which you need to know about when purchasing products.

The peculiarity of induction hobs is that they only heat up when the dishes are on them.

Initially, you should understand the question of what an induction hob is. This is an electric kitchen appliance that has a glass-ceramic surface, under which electromagnetic coils of copper wire are located. When an electric current passes through their coils, a transformation process occurs, as a result of which an alternating electromagnetic field arises, which creates an induction current.

This physical phenomenon makes the electrons of the magnetic bottom of the cookware move, which are located on the surface. The bottom in this case acts as a closed loop conductor. As a result, heat is generated. In this case, only the dishes are heated, while the surface of the stove remains cold.

Pros and cons of glass ceramic plates induction type

Considering the question of what an induction hob is, it is important to know that the phenomenon of induction, characteristic of this type of stove, provides energy savings, which is spent only on creating a magnetic field in the induction coil. Also, this feature of the stove contributes to a more comfortable microclimate in the room during cooking. It won't get too hot here, like when using an electric or gas surface.

Induction working principle hob gives minimal heat loss, while significantly reducing the heating time of pots and pans

This phenomenon takes place without the intermediate components that are used in a classic electric cooker. In the course of operation, the induction cooker is characterized by the highest efficiency, which reduces the time required for cooking.

A strong electromagnetic field is generated at a short distance from the active elements. This contributes to the formation of a limited working area, which ensures a high level of safety. Heating will stop at the slightest shift of the dish to the side or when it is raised above the surface.

The stove starts working when the cookware is placed on the burner, this process ends when it is removed from the working area. This feature of work contributes to significant energy savings, which is spent exclusively on the cooking process. Also among the advantages is the ability of the stove to independently determine the diameter of the bottom of the dishes and adjust to it. It is easy and simple to maintain the surface without the use of special products.

Among the disadvantages of the induction panel is the high cost of the product. However, it is justified by efficiency, manufacturability, functionality, safety and ease of use. Also, during the operation of the stove, a specific noise occurs, which is explained by the operation of the fans used to cool the coils.

The hob surface stays cool - this is made possible by the induction coil under the glass ceramic surface

Important! The induction hob requires the use of special cookware with a bottom made of ferromagnetic material.

Induction hob: product specifications

These surfaces are created in original design. Studying the question of what it is: an induction hob, it is important to know what elements it consists of. The package includes 5 components in the form of a glass ceramic surface, insulation, induction coil, frequency converter and control unit. The latter, in turn, can be mechanical, electronic, or touch-sensitive. It is located at the front of the instrument. However, there are models in which each hotplate has an individual set of sensor buttons.

The glass-ceramic surface is robust and durable. It can be damaged by strong mechanical impact or shock. The weak side of the surface is its lateral edges. To eliminate the possibility of damage to them, beveled edges or stainless steel plates are used to cover the corresponding places. The panel is available in black, white, gray and silver. On the latter, greasy stains will not be so noticeable, due to which the surface retains its aesthetic appearance longer.

The glass-ceramic surface of induction cookers is characterized by strength and durability

Important! To avoid damaging the glass-ceramic coating, do not use abrasive materials and surface cleaning compounds.

The surface can have standard or non-standard dimensions, which allows the structure to be built into any kitchen furniture. The size does not determine the technical characteristics and functionality of the device.The surface can have from 1 to 6 hotplates with different working zones, so you can use pans with different bottom diameters. The total power of the induction hob can reach 10 kW and more.

Helpful advice! When choosing a model, you should pay attention to the total power of the product in order to properly organize the power supply system of the device.

Recommendations for choosing an induction hob

When choosing a surface, it is necessary to determine such technical parameters as the total power of the induction hob (kW), the number of burners, their diameter and shape, the depth and width of the structure, the energy efficiency class, dependence-independence of the option, functionality and manufacturer.

The size of the induction surface must necessarily fit into the kitchen set

The size of the design should fit into the kitchen set. The stove can have a minimum width of 30 cm, which is ideal for small kitchens. These stoves are usually equipped with two burners. Models with a width of 45 cm mainly have 3 cooking zones. Induction hobs for 4 working zones are characterized by a size of 60 cm.

Stoves for 5 burners are more than 60 cm wide, and 6 - 80 cm wide. Hobs differ in thickness. This value is in the range of 40-100 mm. The average is 60-70 mm. In shape, the structure can be made in the form of a triangle, square, polygon or semicircle.

The energy consumption of hobs is determined by the number of cooking zones and their power. As a rule, surfaces are characterized by different power of heating zones, where the maximum value can reach 3 kW, and the minimum value is 1 kW. The A + marking indicates the efficient and durable operation of the induction hob. Today, manufacturers are producing more advanced options with an A + energy efficiency rating. The performance of such products is at a consistently good level.

Important! Some models are additionally equipped with settings to save electricity.

The hobs are characterized by different power of the heating zones, where the maximum value can reach 3 kW, and the minimum value - 1 kW

According to the features of the surface location, you can choose a dependent or independent option. In the first case, it is assumed that the appliances are mounted strictly under the oven from the same manufacturer. The independent option provides for the installation of the stove in any convenient place in the kitchen, regardless of the location of the oven.

Choosing an induction hob by the number of burners

Built-in induction hobs differ in the number of cooking zones. Models with one or two working zones are called "dominoes". They are presented as compact portable or built-in modules. Such plates are most often purchased for a summer residence or for a family of 1-2 people. The panel for 2 working zones is chosen by those who want to save kitchen space and those who do not devote much time to cooking. Such a surface has small dimensions, so it does not clutter up the interior. However, you can conveniently cook on it by placing the necessary dishes.

For families of 3-4 people, you should choose a built-in induction hob 4-burner hob with working zones of different diameters, which will allow you to place various dishes on it and cook several dishes at the same time. Such models are the most popular, therefore they are presented in a wide variety of species and design.

For families of several people, choose a 4-burner induction hob with working zones of different diameters

Those who consider cooking as their hobby and spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing various dishes will appreciate the hobs for 5-6 burners.

Important! Such models are characterized by rather impressive dimensions, which requires a lot of free space.

The size and shape of working areas in induction built-in hobs

The burners can be placed on the surface in different ways: in one row, in the form of a square, rhombus, semicircle or triangle. When choosing a non-standard arrangement of work areas, you should have an idea of ​​how convenient a particular option will be. Cookware elements on adjacent cooking zones must not interfere with each other.

Important! The container, which is located on any heating zone, must be freely accessible.

Cookware placed on adjacent cooking zones during cooking must not interfere with each other.

When deciding which induction hob to choose, the size of the hotplate is considered an important aspect. The standard diameter for induction models is 14-21 cm. This parameter should correspond to the size of the cookware, because if its bottom covers the hotplate by less than 70%, the stove will not turn on. With modern models, the heating zones can automatically adjust to the diameter of the bottom of the pan.

Helpful advice! The best solution is an induction hob with hotplates of different diameters, which will allow you to use different cookware.

The burners can be not only round. On sale, you can find models with diamond, square or hexagonal working areas. The shape of the hob does not have the slightest effect on the functionality of the hob and is purely decorative.

The designations of the working areas may also differ. Their surface is monochromatic, multi-colored, and also has a cross in the middle of the heating zone. The most expensive surfaces are distinguished by burners with a display along their contour, so that you can determine the power of the heating zone at a given moment and the amount of time that remains until the end of the cooking process.

The shape of the hotplate does not affect the functionality of the hob and is purely decorative.

How to choose an induction hob: product functionality

When choosing the best induction hob, it is important to study the functional features of the product, the number of which determines the cost of the hob. Any surface has the ability to smoothly adjust the power level, which makes it possible to set and maintain the required temperature conditions. Their number can vary from 5 to 17.

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Those who cannot quickly switch to a new cooking method should pay attention to the combined electric and induction hobs. For families with small children, the control lock function is vital. The option for determining the size of the bottom of the pan will help you choose the right power setting. The presence of the possibility of a protective auto-off will allow you to turn off the device at the moment the liquid flows out of the pan. The residual heat indicator will show how cool the surface is.

Important! Determining which cookware is suitable for induction hobs will be helped by a magnet, which should be brought to its bottom.

Any surface of the induction hob has the ability to continuously adjust the power level

For convenient operation of the plate, an important component is a timer, thanks to which it is quite easy to set the beginning and end of the surface. For more comfortable use, it can be equipped with a sound signal. Some models have a smart timer in their functionality, which gives the command to turn off the heating a few minutes before the end of the specified cooking time. This option prevents the food from drying out due to residual heat.

Important! The cooking timer can be set individually for each hotplate.

The Power Boost function is quite interesting and in demand, which allows you to increase the power of one of the burners, using the capabilities of neighboring heating zones. By setting the required values, you can control the heating temperature. Power Management mode provides power management control. The required rate of resource consumption is set in the device memory - and the panel is automatically configured to work in the specified mode.

The Stop & Go function allows you to briefly interrupt the cooking process for 3 minutes. After pressing again, the surface will resume in the specified mode. Some models are equipped with a keep warm option, which is convenient for families whose members return home at different times.

The Power Boost function allows you to increase the power of one of the cooking zones by using the capabilities of the neighboring cooking zones

Induction hobs rating 2018: price, quality models of world manufacturers

Today, on store shelves, you can find a large assortment of induction cookers characterized by high quality and a wide range of functions, produced under such global brands as Bosch, Siemens, Electrolux, Gorenje, Gefest, Hansa and Ariston.

The induction hob hob Combustion IS 677 USC is the embodiment of the ideal ratio of price and quality. The model has 4 burners, touch control with smooth adjustment of heating modes. The stove is equipped with a residual heat indicator, auto shut-off, Power Boost Supreme function, which combines the standard 4 heating zones into 2 large ones.

The SuperSilent option ensures quiet operation of the hob. The surface is made of corrugated glass-ceramic. The hob Combustion is equipped with a countdown timer with automatic shutdown, which allows you not to worry about the cooking process, which will stop after a specified period of time. You can buy such a model for 43 thousand rubles.

The hob Hotpoint Ariston KRC640X is equipped with 10 power adjustment modes

The induction hob Hotpoint Ariston KRC640X is popular. The glass-ceramic surface has 4 heating zones of different diameters. The stove is equipped with 10 power adjustment modes. The PerfectFry option allows you to set the temperature required for the preparation of a particular dish. The model is characterized by an ergonomic design, which will be appreciated by lovers of simplicity and accessibility of kitchen appliances. The cost of the model is 28 thousand rubles.

When deciding which hob to choose, many people prefer the Hansa BHI68608 induction surface. The manufacturer offers an improved model with enhanced functionality at an affordable cost. A distinctive feature of the panel is a durable and scratch-resistant glass-ceramic corrugated coating.

The power of the product is 7.4 kW. The model is equipped with a "bridge" function, thanks to which the burners in the left zone can be combined to enable cooking in a large pan. The stove has two timers: one of them regulates the general process, and the second - cooking on separate burners.

Hob induction The IS 677 USC burner is an ideal value for money

Electrolux hobs: distinctive features of the models

Electrolux is considered one of the most popular world manufacturers. Induction hobs from a well-known manufacturer are characterized by a wide variety of types, have a different number of functions. There are mandatory options for stepwise power and temperature control, auto shutdown, control blocking and a timer.

The surface of the products is made of corrugated reinforced glass ceramics, so that the dishes will not slip on it. Special steel linings contribute to a durable, defect-free and scratch-free performance.

The company also produces combined models with induction or electric hobs and gas burners. A feature of some models is the presence of a Wok heating zone, which has a special recess in which a pan with a convex bottom is installed. The main disadvantage of Electrolux hobs is the high cost of the product and spare parts.

Electrolux is considered one of the world's most popular manufacturers of hobs.

Which is better: induction hobs Electrolux

Among the popular induction built-in 4-burner hobs of this company are the models EHH 96340 XK, EHH 96240 IK, EHI 96540 FS, EHO 98840 FG, EHI 96540 FW. The plates are equipped with an extended range of functions and have a stylish appearance. The cost of the panels is in the range of 30-45 thousand rubles.

In the ranking of the best induction hobs of the combined type, the Electrolux EHG 96341FK model occupies a leading position. The surface of the standard size is presented in black. There are four burners here, of which the two far ones are traditional electric, and the front ones are induction. The panel is controlled by means of a sensor electronic unit.

The model is equipped with a timer, indication of the presence of residual heat, auto-off and control blocking functions, PowerBoost modes (to increase the power of one of the zones) and Stop & Go (to delay the surface operation). You can buy the panel for 34.5 thousand rubles.

Another popular combined model with gas burners is the Electrolux EGD 6576 NOK panel, which is equipped with a lock function, residual heat indicator, electric ignition, gas control and a timer. This stove is considered ideal for country houses and summer cottages. You can buy the product for 34 thousand rubles.

On the panel of the Electrolux EHG 96341FK model there are four burners, of which two are traditional electric, and two are induction

Characteristics of Bosch induction hobs

Slabs, original in design, with extended functionality, are offered by the world-famous manufacturer Bosch. Induction hobs can have a different number of cooking zones. There are combination models with 1-2 working zones working in HiLight mode.

Helpful advice! It is better to entrust the repair of induction hobs to a specialist.

The glass-ceramic surface is equipped with electronic sensors that recognize the size of the pan and select the required power level. For reliable and durable operation, it has beveled edges or is framed around the perimeter. Some models are distinguished by the oval shape of the heating zone, so that you can cook a dish on the surface in a rooster.

In the rating of induction hobs in 2018, the Bosch PIF 645FB1E stove occupies a worthy place. It has a standard size, 4 burners of different diameters, one of which is characterized by an oval expansion zone. The model is equipped with a 17-step power adjustment. It has two built-in timers: one alarm, and the second with shutdown for each working zone. The maximum power of the cooker is 7.4 kW.

Today, the combined models of Bosch plates are quite in demand, in which 1-2 working zones operate in HiLight mode

This model is equipped with an expanded set of functions - options for keeping warm, extended heating zone, quick start, interruption of the cooking process, child lock, energy consumption control. The average cost of a panel is 40 thousand rubles.

Which is better: induction hobs Bosch

Has numerous positive reviews of the Bosch PIC 645F17E induction hob of the combined type, in which two burners are electric. The power consumption of the product is 7.2 kW. The stove is equipped with 10 power adjustment modes, residual heat functions, auto shut-off, child lock and alarm timer.You can buy a combined model for 30 thousand rubles.

The Bosch PXX975DC1E model is a stylish technological panel suitable for a large family. There are 5 induction hobs on the black glass-ceramic surface, designed for dishes of any diameter. The largest heating zone is in the center of the product. Paired burners at the edges of the surface can be combined into two large heating zones.

The Bosch PIC 645F17E induction hob of the combined type has numerous positive reviews

The stove is equipped with a 17-step power adjustment, an extended heating zone mode, options for controlling energy consumption, interruption in work, keeping warm, auto shutdown and child lock. A distinctive feature of the model is the presence of the PanBoost function, which ensures the stove is quickly ready for frying. This is where the frying sensor is located, as well as the automatic programs for it. The price of an induction hob is on average 85 thousand rubles.

Pros and cons of induction hobs Siemens

The German manufacturer specializes in the production of 4-burner induction hobs. The surface of the models is equipped with infrared sensors to facilitate a quick cooking process. All functional units are equipped with reliable protection against overheating, voltage surges and external adverse influences.

Among the interesting models, the Siemens induction hob EH651FFB1E is popular. The stove is equipped with an oval hotplate with an extended heating zone. The total power of the product is 7.4 kW. The stove has a timer, auto-off indicator, residual heat option, child lock mode, 15 power adjustment modes. The average cost of a model is 35 thousand rubles.

The surface of the Siemens models is equipped with infrared sensors for a quick cooking process

The Siemens EX675LXC1E model occupies a worthy place in the rating of the German manufacturer's induction hobs. The stove has four burners of different diameters. The surface is equipped with the PowerMove Plus function, which allows you to adjust the intensity of the cooking process, the fryingSensor, which is necessary to adjust the frying level. The useful Dual lightSlider option allows the hob to intuitively control the expansion zones. You can buy such a stove for 38 thousand rubles.

One of the popular large-sized panels is the Siemens EH875SC11E model, equipped with 5 burners, one of which is double-circuit, which allows you to reduce or increase the heating zone depending on the diameter of the dish, the other is oval, which makes it possible to use a rooster or fish bowl. The rated power of the cooker is 7.3 kW. You can buy such a model for 48 thousand rubles.

Popular Hephaestus induction hobs

A numerous size range of induction cookers at an affordable cost is offered by the Belarusian company Hephaestus. There are both standard models for 4 burners and compact hobs with two heating zones, which are very popular. All cookers are equipped with a touch control panel, residual heat indication, blocking and automatic shutdown functions.

The Belarusian company Gefest offers hobs at an affordable price

Among compact models, the Gefest PVI 4001 2-burner induction hob with a black glass-ceramic surface is popular. The cooker power is 3.7 kW. A feature of the stove is the presence of an accelerated heating function, which allows you to shorten the cooking process. The cost of the panel is 12 thousand rubles.

Among the traditional surfaces can be distinguished white induction hob Gefest CH 4232 K12. It has burners of different diameters, which are designed for any type of cookware.The panel is equipped with a minimum number of functions, including a residual heat indication, an auto-off program, 8 power adjustment modes and a timer. Product price - 15 thousand rubles.

An interesting model is the Gefest 4322 5-burner hob. The stove has an extended range of functions, which allows you to quickly and comfortably realize any culinary masterpieces. The surface has a 15-step power adjustment. The price of the product is 27 thousand rubles.

The white induction hob Gefest CH 4232 K12 has burners of different diameters, which are suitable for dishes of any size

The best models for 2 burners induction hobs

The Siemens EX375FXB1E premium-class hob occupies a leading position in the rating of the best induction hobs of 2018 in the domino format. The surface of the product is made of black glass ceramics. It has a sloped facade with stainless steel side frames. Each of the two induction cooking zones has two oval indicators, which allows you to more evenly and accurately distribute the cookware on the surface.

With the Flex Induction option, three hot zones can be created on the surface. The model has 17 power levels, timer, powerBoost function, child protection, indicators of energy consumption and residual heat. This hob can be built into a worktop or combined with other surfaces of a similar profile. You can buy such an induction panel for 40 thousand UAH.

From the middle price category, we can distinguish the Gorenje IT 332 CSC two-burner induction hob with a black glass-ceramic surface. Each hotplate is equipped with an individual heating control and a residual heat indicator. The power of the cooker is 3.6 kW. It has auto-lock and childproof modes. The cost of the product is 23 thousand rubles.

Siemens EX375FXB1E is considered the best induction hob of 2018 in domino format

The LEX EVI 320 BL is the most popular inexpensive domino induction surface. Despite the low cost, the stove is equipped with the necessary set of functions. Consumers note the high-quality assembly of the product and the pleasant design. You can buy such a panel for 11 thousand rubles.

Induction hobs have a number of significant advantages over other hobs, which makes them a leader in the ranking of ergonomic, convenient and functional household appliances. Among a wide range of models that are equipped with a different set of functions, you can choose the most appropriate option that will fully satisfy the needs of the buyer.