Advantages and disadvantages of induction hobs. Choice, instructions, reviews

The pace of development of kitchen appliances can be compared only with the progress in the field of automotive industry. New technologies simplify the cooking processes, making them safer and more comfortable. Among the most significant know-how that radically changed the appearance and functionality of modern kitchen, it is worth noting cooking surfaces. This type of technology has a lot of differences, which, however, do not always please users. Before proceeding with the renovation of kitchen appliances, it is worthwhile to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of induction hobs, as well as to familiarize with the feedback of their users. Like everything new, such surfaces offer a technologically more advanced approach to solving old problems. Obviously, over time, such equipment will take the leading positions in the market, but it is worthwhile to know about the specifics of the operation and operation of such models today.

Features of induction panels

First, it should be noted that this technique is only a kind of whole group of cooking surfaces. At the first stage of choice, the question may be - induction or electric hob? The answer to it lies in the special principle of the first option. The fact is that its heating element in the form of an induction coil forms an electromagnetic field, thanks to which the activation of the atoms of the crystal lattice and, consequently, the heating of the dishes takes place. In practice, this means that the plate itself is not heated and remains cold, and all the heat energy is transferred to the bottom of the pan or frying pan.

It is important to understand that there are many differences among models of this type. The most advanced options are those in which touch control and glass ceramic hobs are provided. Such features, in particular, are the Bosch induction cooker in the PIC645F17E specification. In this case, this option can be attributed to the combined, because of 4 hotplates in the model only 2 work by induction principle.

Benefits

The main advantage of such models is already named - this is the preservation of the safe temperature of the surface itself. That is, it can not be burned, so the technology poses no threat to children. In addition, burning on the panel is completely excluded - if the milk "runs away", it will be enough to wipe it with a rag, and then continue the cooking process. It is also important to note the advantages of the induction hob in terms of heating efficiency. Again, in comparison with electrical analogs, in this case, energy is not expended to bring the plate to the optimum state. As in the work with gas furnaces, the technique immediately starts the heating process.

In this case, the features of induction provide for the so-called double heating, when the dishes themselves give the surfaces heat. In addition to all of the above, we must also mention the advantages of the design of such panels. They can be organically integrated into kitchen countertop systems. In this regard, the advantages and disadvantages of induction hobs correspond to other representatives of this class.

disadvantages

Along with advertising, which paints all the positive qualities of induction panels, materials that disprove these merits are also distributed. As a rule, much has been exaggerated in such criticism, nevertheless there are fundamental drawbacks of equipment that should be taken into account. So, the disadvantages of the induction hob are worth considering in different directions. It's worth starting with security. There is an opinion that the magnetic fields created by the technique are harmful to people. Although manufacturers completely reject such statements, indicating that plates operate with low-frequency induction, people with pacemakers still should minimize contact with such equipment.

The next drawback concerns, oddly enough, the dishes themselves. Depending on the materials and technical condition, it may be necessary to replace pots and pans. The manufacturers themselves, describing the advantages and disadvantages of induction hobs, note that the equipment works only with materials capable of being magnetized. These include steel, cast iron, enamelled varieties of dishes, etc. Conversely, the panel will not heat utensils made of glass, aluminum and brass.

Manufacturers and prices

Despite the high adaptability of this technology, this segment was quickly mastered by different companies. So, the leaders of the segment are the brands Bosch, Hansa, Zanussi and other manufacturers, who aspire to maximize the potential of induction. Also noteworthy is the induction hob Electrolux in the Infinite line. In addition, that the brand is known for affordable prices, in this case, bribes and practicality of technology. Panels are convenient in content, have a basic set of options and ensure a uniform warm-up. If we talk about prices, then in the case of Electrolux they range from 15 to 25 thousand rubles. By the way, the minimum available price level for such models is about 10 thousand. Of course, offers from Hansa and Bosch in the best performances, as a rule, exceed the mark of 25 thousand rubles.

Criterias of choice

If you discard design characteristics, the choice of which should be approached, guided by their own tastes, then the division into dependent and independent models will come to the fore. The difference between them lies in an inseparable bunch of panel-oven. In the case of dependent models, it is not available, ensuring the autonomy of the surface. At cost, it is more profitable to depend on an induction hob, the prices for which vary on average from 10 to 15 thousand rubles. But in the process of operation, independent models are more convenient. Here it is worth noting the implementation of the management system. It is desirable to give preference to sensory elements - they are not only ergonomic, but also provide comfort in caring for the panel.

Operating Instructions for the Panel

The new principle of work stipulates the need for careful study of the rules of operation with machinery. Most models are equipped with convenient touch controls. These include the already mentioned Bosch induction cooker of an independent type. Also, for convenience, manufacturers delineate the zones with burners so that it is easy to compare the controls and the working zones of heating. By manipulating the buttons, the tile operation is controlled. In some cases, the functions of timer, lock, sound indication of actions and other possibilities are provided. But it is much more important to take into account the observance of rules for handling utensils. It should not have damage to the bottom, cracks and other defects.

Instruction manual

Glass ceramic coatings have a lot of advantages, but they also require special care. It does not matter, this is a combined induction hob or monofunctional. The same version from Bosch, equipped with two types of burners, requires the same maintenance measures as completely inductive modifications. So, in the process of leaving, do not use steam jetting and other cleaners working with high pressure. When choosing drugs, it is worth giving preference to those compounds that form a protective coating. Regarding regularity, the glass-ceramic panels should be cleaned after each cooking session.

Feedback on induction hobs

In general, the reviews have a positive connotation, and this applies to different qualities of technology. It's worth starting with the benefits of installation. As many emphasize, the very design of the panels is focused on compact integration into the kitchen space. In terms of efficiency in work, only the advantages that the induction hob has at its disposal are noted. Prices, of course, are quite high - even the initial level of 10-15 thousand for many seems too high. True, in the long term, the cost pays off energy efficiency and heating speed. But there is a more serious criticism. It concerns high requirements to the dishes. According to many housewives, the audit of pots and pans leads to replenishment with new utensils. To throw out aluminum ware it is a pity, therefore it is necessary to search for an additional place for magnetized analogues.

Conclusion

Cooking surfaces are not the first year represented in the Russian market. During this time, the segment took shape in an attractive niche of kitchen equipment. After all, if you consider the advantages and disadvantages of induction hobs through the eyes of the consumer, then the characteristics such as functionality, high heating rate, modern design, convenient handling and energy saving will come to the fore. But the payment for these dignity for many is palpable. On the one hand, this is a high purchase price, on the other hand - restrictions in the use of dishes.