Induction Hobs

I've purchased my induction hob & vitroceramic hob at Perfect Livin Home Fair 2010. Both are from Fagor: package deal of RM4600. The retail price of the induction hob is RM3599 & the vitroceramic hob is RM2499, for a total of RM6098. That's about 25% off the retail price. Plus I can redeem a non-stick pan suitable for induction cooking from Fagor.

So, what's an induction hob? Read on to find out more!

In an induction hob, heat is generated through a magnetic field, created under the glass when a ferrous magnetic pan is placed above.

Induction is the fastest way of cooking as heat is transmitted directly to the base of pan, minimizing the losses of heat and reducing the time of cooking. It saves up to 40% of electricity consumption compared to other systems. Induction hobs incorporate an intelligent system which automatically recognises the size and diameter of the pan, providing the right amount of energy, so that no energy is wasted with constant regulation of energy and thus more uniform heat distribution. Energy is only transmitted when a suitable recipient is situated over the cooking zone. If the recipient is removed, the power stops (Zero energy consumption).

As the vitroceramic crystal heats less, spills and splashes do not become incrusted. Thus cleaning in general is not so laborious with induction hobs and the use of a scraper is seldom needed.

Heat is transmitted directly to the pan base. This way, the glass does not reach high temperatures, just that produced by the heat of the recipient. Induction zones are protected against excessive heating of the electronic system. Lastly, induction hobs also detect certain voltage variations and compensate for them, extending in this way the working life of the hob.

Only stainless steel, cast iron and enamelled steel pots and pans are suitable for induction cooking. To check for compatibility, just use a magnet at the base of the pan - the magnet should stick.