A cooktop is an integral component of a fully functioning kitchen, but while many people choose their new cooktop based on aesthetics, there are some other factors that need to be considered. There are a number of differences between metal and glass cooktops that are not just cosmetic. So, here we’ll explore these factors to help you choose whether a metal or glass cooktop is the right option for your kitchen.
Initial Price
While price should not be the only consideration, it can be a factor for most homeowners. Generally, metal cooktops are less expensive compared to their glass counterparts. There are other factors such as features, brand, length of warranty and quality that can affect the initial price, but generally, you can expect to pay approximately $100 more for a glass cooktop.
Efficiency
While the initial price might be something you’ve already looked at, you may not have considered the long-term costs. Generally, glass cooktops are more efficient compared to a metal top and coils. If you enjoy cooking frequently, you should consider a glass cooktop, which has a high energy rating as the savings on your energy bills in the months and years to come would more than cover the difference in the initial purchase costs. If you want to ensure maximum efficiency, opt for a cooktop that automatically adjusts your burner to the size of your pan or pot to save even more energy.
Cleaning Ease
No one enjoys trying to scrub baked-on food debris off a cooktop, and this is something you should consider when shopping for a new model. While a smooth glass top may look very easy to clean, you still need to be very careful. If you allow a spill to sit on the glass for a prolonged period, it will become very difficult to remove. Metal cooktops can also be a cleaning challenge, as you need to clean the heating elements and the surrounding surface. This tends to be quite labor intensive, but if a spill does sit for a while, it won’t be as hard to clean as a glass cooktop.
If cleaning is an important consideration for you, you may wish to consider an induction cooktop. Induction uses magnetic energy to heat your cookware, so the surrounding area does not get hot. This makes cleaning spills easy as nothing is baked on to the surface.
Additional Features
If you’re happy with a simple cooktop design, a metal model is likely to provide just what you’re looking for. Apart from the size and type of coil elements, the only additional features are likely to be adjustable burner sizes and rapid heating. On the other hand, glass cooktops tend to offer far more options that can enhance your cooking style. From automatic pan size sensors and touch controls to heat sensors, you can calibrate your cooktop precisely to suit the particular dish you’re preparing.
To ensure that you choose the right cooktop, you need to seriously consider what features are essential in your kitchen. If you’re a serious foodie, it is well worth investing in a more sophisticated cooktop such as an induction model. This type of cooktop allows precision cooking and rapid results. It is also safer, as there is no risk of burns from hot surfaces; the only heat generated is between the cookware and the induction element.
Although aesthetics are important in any kitchen, a cooktop needs to offer maximum practicality. Therefore, it is essential to consider these factors before making a purchase decision.
If you are considering a new cooktop, you can explore your options with this online collection or speak to a home appliance expert for a more specialist service.