The phenomenon of electromagnetic induction was discovered back in 1831, and it was on its basis that the first induction hob was created. Reviews of modern models of this technique are enthusiastic, because now the cooking process has become even easier and more convenient.
What it is?
Induction panel is a hob, which allows you to generate heat directly in the dishes. Its distinctive features are fast and efficient heating and significant energy savings. The operation of the device is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. Each panel consists of a glass-ceramic surface and a copper coil, which is located under it. A current passes through the coil, which is converted into an electromagnetic field.
What kind of dishes do you need?
Cookware for an induction hob has ferromagnetic properties, therefore it is a closed-circuit conductor. The bottom electrons are driven by the induction current, thermal energy is released, that is, the capacity, and the food in it is heated.
How to choose an induction hob? It is necessary to build on several criteria.
Pros and cons
The positive aspects of induction panels include the following:
- Profitability. Thanks to the consumption of a small amount of electricity, adjusting the burner to the diameter of the bottom of the dishes and heating only a certain surface area, both time and energy are saved. Due to the high power, the stove heats up quickly and maintains the desired temperature for a long time.
- High efficiency. Thanks to this indicator, cooking will become faster and easier.
- Security. The induction hob receives good reviews due to the fact that it does not have an open flame, a hot burner, and it only turns on when using suitable cookware. If the latter does not have ferromagnetic properties, then the stove simply will not turn on.
- Comfort of operation. When cooking on the induction stove there will be no unpleasant odors, smoke, because even if the food gets on the surface of glass ceramics, it will not stick to it.
- Convenience. The induction hob reviews are excellent due to the fact that it is easy and simple to operate. Each model is equipped with a large digital display, touch buttons, a smooth controller, so the cooking process can be adjusted to the smallest detail.
- Compact and ergonomic. Thanks to the small size, this modern technology fits perfectly into any kitchen space.
So how to choose an induction hob? It should be remembered that this device has its disadvantages. Perhaps the most important drawback is the high cost, especially if the model is additionally equipped with various functions. The second drawback is the need to use special dishes, which should have ferromagnetic properties.
How to choose, or Learn the differences
Any hob - electric or induction - has its own characteristics, which should be familiar with before buying. It should be remembered that the principle of induction, on which various devices operate, is the same. But the degree of reliability, additional functions and design features can be very different. Experts advise to pay attention to the products of well-known brands that have been engaged in the production of such household appliances for a long time. Among the distinguishing points are the following:
- The number of heating zones.For a small family, a model with two heating sections is enough.
- If there are kids in the house, protection from children will become a demanded function.
- Various models are equipped with options for changing the intensity of heating zones.
- As additional functions, auto-boiling and maintaining the temperature can act, which is convenient for those who are excommunicated from the stove during cooking.
How to choose an induction hob that will look good in the kitchen and be easy to use? To do this, you need to know what models manufacturers offer, and how they differ from each other.
Combined devices: practical and profitable
As already mentioned, induction hobs are a new word in household appliances. Using them is easy. True, for this you need to understand the principle of the device.
Today, a combined induction hob is popular, which combines the capabilities of several devices at once. In this case, both gas burners and electric ones will be located on the hob. Mixed-type stoves will appeal to those who are looking for various ways to save and reduce energy costs. All combined panels are divided into three types:
- Gas on glass + Hi-Light.
- Gas on glass and induction.
- Cast iron and gas burners.
In the first case, the burners are located directly on the glass-ceramic surface of the stove, so that the device looks neat and stylish. Hi-Light is a burner, powered by electricity, while in them the spiral heating elements are replaced by tape, which increases the efficiency. Such rings are good in that they heat up easily, are easy to clean, and are safe.
Induction hobs operate on a completely different principle, since the bottom of the dishes is heated first, and not the burner itself. Their features are in a wide temperature range, high level of safety, minimal energy consumption.
The most familiar options are cast iron burners, through which heat is evenly distributed on the surface.
Combined hobs: choose a model
You can find products of this orientation in the line of almost any manufacturer. The Electrolux EHM 6335 K induction hob, which is equipped with three high-performance gas burners and one Hi-Light heating zone, has proven itself well. Each burner has gas control, cast-iron dish holders. The working surface of the plate is made of glass ceramics, and its power is regulated by rotary elements.
Another attractive model of this brand is Electrolux EHM 60132 K, which combines gas and induction burners. Powerful burners, rotary controls, touch panel, gas control, child lock, residual heat indication and timer - all this is available in the specified device.
The hob of the brand Gorenje KC 620 BC is also a combination appliance that combines gas and electric burners. The working surface is made of black glass ceramic.
The Hotpoint-Ariston PH 631 MS WH combination hob is the most affordable analogue among similar models, while it combines three gas burners and one cast iron, which are located on an enamel surface.
Bosch Models
This manufacturer offers a wide selection of induction hobs for various types of work. Induction hob “Bosch” is a combination of two types of burners, which provides convenience and ease of use of a household appliance.
The most popular hybrid models include two - Bosch PIF651T14E and Bosch PIC645E14E, which also cost up to fifteen thousand rubles. They have approximately the same size, so they easily fit even into a compact kitchen. In addition, they are also similar in power. The distinctive features include the following:
- Equipped with induction and Hi-Light hobs.
- Heating elements are located in convenient proximity to the user.
- Hot plates recognize the presence of dishes, so without installing it, the device simply will not turn on.
- The special PowerBoost function promotes fast heating.
- The presence of the main switch - the ability, if necessary, to deactivate the entire device with one button.
- The TouchControl touchpad facilitates quick and easy operation. The device is heated in 17 stages, while all useful information is displayed.
The induction hob Bosch compared with analogues of other brands is a device worthy of attention. Firstly, the PowerManagement function is popular, the main task of which is to help reduce energy consumption. The essence of its purpose is that, when inactive, the device automatically switches to work in an economical mode. Secondly, the protective shutdown function, which works after a certain period of inactivity of the user, attracts attention.
Hansa
In the low price segment, the Hansa BHI68014 model attracts attention. You can buy it up to 11,000 rubles, while you will surely like the classic design in black. How to choose an induction hob that is easy to use and reliable? Manufacturer Hansa offers to pay attention to its budget products. Firstly, it automatically shuts off. Secondly, the hob is decorated stylishly and interestingly, which is surprising for economical models. Thirdly, the efficiency of this plate is up to 90%.
Hotpoint-ariston
You can not ignore another classic representative of household appliances - the Hotpoint-Ariston brand. The budget model Hotpoint-Ariston 644 CRFH E, which has touch controls, two heating zones, adjustable by the user, is especially noteworthy.
Featured in the products of this brand is the Booster function, which allows you to quickly bring the liquid to a boil. The control panel is located in front of the heating zones, while it can be blocked. The assembly of the device carried out in Poland is of high quality.
Middle price segment
It includes models that can be purchased from 15 000 rubles. According to users, the best induction hob is in this group. One of the popular models is the HANSA BHIW 68340, which attracts attention with a combination of white and black colors. The panel is controlled by sensors, while the device is equipped with a Booster function.
Black induction fixture is offered by Samsung. This is the model CTN464NC01. Its main advantage is in a well-thought-out heating zone, due to which it is possible to cook using dishes of a non-standard shape, for example, ducklings. This model will cost from 18,000 to 21,000 rubles.
The most expensive devices
In the high price segment, induction hobs with a value of 25,000 rubles are represented. According to experts, such a price is too high, since there are not many changes and additional features in such devices compared to devices in the middle price segment. For example, about 27,000 rubles is the Korting HI 6450 model, which is not in high demand in our country. And from the point of view of technical equipment in it there is nothing special.
The popular Siemens EH675MV17E model. All heating zones in this appliance are combined into one. Around the same price category (up to 30,000 rubles) is the Neff T54T53N2RU hob, which stands out for its thoughtful details and stylish design.
Enjoy the shopping!