Tag: cooktop

Which is Best? Ceramic vs Induction Cooktops

A cooktop is a valuable appliance in any modern kitchen that offers a proper surface to cook various delicious dishes. There are two popular options: ceramic and induction cooktops. At first glance, they look very similar. But looks can be deceiving, and upon closer inspection, these cooktops are very different. In this article, we will look at these two cooktop choices in more detail to help you determine which will suit your kitchen.

What is an Induction Cooktop?

This is a smooth ceramic surface that hides high-frequency electromagnetics mounted underneath. The magnets interact with the cookware’s surfaces to generate heat in the pan or pot. To generate heat efficiently, the cookware must have steel, iron, or magnetic stainless-steel bottoms. This limited interaction has significant advantages over cooktops that generate heat directly.

First, there is no heat to cause accidental burns during or after cooking if the cooktop is touched. This significantly reduces the chances of accidents, which may be of considerable interest to those with children and elderly relatives. The induction cooktop will only generate heat when the correct type of pan or pot is placed on the surface. Because the surface is sleek and smooth, it’s aesthetically pleasing and easy to clean. Induction cooktops tend to heat the pots and pans quickly, speeding up cooking times and lowering energy bills.

What is a Ceramic Cooktop?

There are also smooth-topped appliances, but instead of the high-frequency electromagnets, they have coiled metal heating elements instead. These elements are placed under a sheet of tempered ceramic glass, which glows during heating. The heat is transferred to a specific burner or “zone” on the cooktop for easy reference. Ceramic cooktops are and remain a popular choice with many people because they are attractive, simple to use, and easy to clean. There are no obtrusive burner units that are difficult to clean, and they deliver reliable and consistent heating.

Which is the Best Cooktop?

This is a tricky question; we all have different expectations, requirements, and budgets. Both cooktops make an excellent choice for a modern kitchen, but they work quite differently, and it’s important to understand these differences.

Those seeking a premium-grade performance without the hassle of a gas cooktop may prefer an induction appliance. The heating times are much faster than those of a typical ceramic cooktop, and they are safer. The cooktop’s surface doesn’t get hot unless it’s in direct contact with a suitable pan or pot. As a bonus, if you spill any food or ingredients during cooking, they will not be cooked onto the surface. This, combined with the sleek finish, makes an induction cooktop simple to clean quickly.

The only real disadvantage of an induction cooktop is that this technology drives up the price. This is fair when considering the features, but it’s probably not the best choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a new cooktop. This is the main reason why ceramic cooktops are still popular today. They are sleek, controllable, and easy to clean, yet they are much cheaper than an induction model. Those who can deal with slightly slower heating times and incrementally higher energy bills have a lot to offer.

A Brief Cooktop Buying Primer

No matter which cooktop you choose, there are five things that you need to bear in mind before you buy. They are:

  • Available Space: It’s essential to match the cooktop to your kitchen space carefully to ensure it fits properly. There’s not much point in agonizing over how many cooking zones you need on your new induction cooktop if you can only fit four in your kitchen. Certain manufacturers offer 70cm cooktops that fit in a 60cm cutout. This can be useful if 60cm feels too cramped and you need extra space around the base of your pots and pans.
  • Extra Features: One of the best things about new ceramic and induction cooktops is the extra features. The burners or cooking zones can be chosen to suit the number and types of pans that you use regularly. Other useful features may include child locks, timers, displays, control positions, and more. This level of customization isn’t possible with more traditional cooktop designs.
  • Energy Efficiency: Energy costs have risen dramatically in recent years, and many people are looking for ways to trim expenses without compromise. So, it’s a great idea to prioritize energy efficiency when you choose your new cooktop. In this area, the induction cooktop is the clear winner; the upfront costs may be much higher, but energy savings are possible in the medium to long term. This can add up to a tidy sum over the appliance’s lifespan.
  • Electrical Rating: Any cooktop you’re considering should have the correct wiring to suit your kitchen. If you’re unsure, consult a professional home appliance technician to check the wiring and install the cooktop for you. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s installation requirements carefully. This will prevent any problems in the future and protect your manufacturer’s warranty.
  • Avoid DIY Installations: Although it’s tempting to attempt a DIY installation for your new ceramic or induction cooktop, this should be avoided. Both cooktops represent a significant investment that should be protected. A non-professional installation may cause warranty issues that can degrade the value of your new cooktop.

Making the Final Buying Decision

Although both cooktops work well in a modern kitchen context, we believe the induction cooktops are the best option on the market. They are aesthetically pleasing, functional, simple to use, and easy to clear. Over the years of ownership, a regularly used induction cooktop can save the user a lot of money. Some users may need to upgrade or change their cookware to work with these cooktops. But, the cost of these induction pots and pans has dropped significantly over the last decade. Induction cookware is now more affordable than ever, and many can be used on ceramic, electric, and gas cooktops.

A gas cooktop is the only natural alternative for “serious” cooks. These have become extremely popular in recent years and are often part of a dual-fuel range setup. Many top chefs swear by gas cooktops because they offer superior temperature control, which is a requirement for advanced cooking techniques. But for many people, a gas cooktop is likely to be overkill when it comes to their daily cooking needs. Most of us need a cooktop that’s effective, safe, and easy to clean.

If you’re not sure about induction cooking, there’s a cost-effective option to try it out for yourself. Many manufacturers now sell induction hot plates that you can use with a single pot or pan to evaluate if this technology will work for you. Set up the hotplate and time how long it takes for the water to come to the boil. The results may surprise you; unlike other heating methods, an induction surface is not subject to changes at different altitudes. Most induction surfaces have a minimum and maximum temperature of 100ºF and 500ºF respectively. Because there’s a limited risk of burn, the heat can be distributed consistently and evenly across the entire cooking process. Certain ceramic cooktops can limit heat or fade in and out to “save energy,” which can be annoying.

Safety Features

We’ve touched on this briefly, but the safety features of an induction cooktop can be awe-inspiring. It’s also admirable that these safety measures do not degrade the performance. The risk of injury and damage to cookware and the cooktop is significantly reduced during cooking. The surface doesn’t get too hot and is only activated in set zones that only operate when the pan or pot is in place. Although they are safer than traditional cooktops, ceramic models retain heat after cooking, which can lead to burns. A ceramic cooktop will retain the heat for 4-5 times longer than an induction model. Both types have heat indicators that warn of stray hands or those cleaning the surface too early. One helpful feature on specific models is turning off the zone if there’s a spillage or the cooking zone empties. This can prevent long-lasting damage and use energy in areas no longer required.

In Conclusion

Ideally, we prefer a professionally installed induction cooktop over a ceramic model. The heating speed, energy savings, and extra features are well worth the premium-grade price. An induction cooktop will also add much value to a kitchen if you sell your home shortly. If you want to learn more about induction or ceramic cooktops, contact a home appliance specialist for expert help and advice.

 

4 Home Appliance Energy Conservation Tips

Most of us have a number of home appliances that are great time savers, but they can consume a lot of energy, and this drives up your monthly bills. Although it isn’t possible to eliminate the energy consumption completely, it is possible to reduce the amount of energy consumed. In this article, we will look at four common home appliances and how you can save energy using those devices.

  1. The Dishwasher

A dishwasher doesn’t use too much energy, but it will consume a large volume of water on every cycle. The best way to use a dishwasher is to get the most out of each and every cycle. Always ensure that the dishwasher if full and that you don’t use the hottest water temperature. If you switch to an energy efficient model you will use less energy and water when the dishwasher is running.

  1. The Refrigerator

The refrigerator consumes energy 24/7 because it needs to be kept on to keep our food fresh. But, many people keep their refrigerator at a temperature that’s far too cold, and every extra degree consumes more energy than necessary. The acceptable temperature range for a refrigerator should be 32ºF-40ªF to keep your food in great shape. It’s also a great idea to fill your fridge with as much food as you can to reduce the energy consumed. The second law of thermodynamics comes into play here, the less empty space in your refrigerator, the less energy consumed to keep the space cool. If your refrigerator is never full enough, you may consider a switch to a smaller unit to save money on your next energy bill.

  1. The Cooktop or Oven

An electric cooktop and/or oven is a great way to cook your meals, but if you cook at home regularly, they can consume a great deal of energy. This is particularly wasteful if you’re only preparing smaller meals and saving energy should be a priority. If you need to boil water, use the kettle instead, and then transfer the boiled water to the pan. Only ever use as much water as you need to reduce the boiling time and always cover your pans to speed up the cooking process. When you use the oven, keep the door shut as much as possible to retain the heat inside for cooking. If you’re only reheating a small meal, it’s a good idea to use a microwave oven instead because it’s far more energy efficient. Another good alternative to a cooktop is to use an induction hob that can quickly heat your pans to the optimal cooking heat safely.

  1. The Washer

A washer is used heavily in most homes, it uses a great deal of energy and water, but there are ways to reduce the energy used. Wash clothes in cold water and use a water saving washing mode if you have one on your machine. Keep the lint trap clean to make the machine more energy efficient and reduce the chance of a failure. Try to use shorter washing cycles to see if they work well with your clothes and dry naturally when possible. Always wash a full load to make the most use of the energy and water that will be consumed. If you have to do a partial load of laundry, make sure to use the correct setting on your machine. Switching to a modern, efficient washing machine will also save water and consume less energy to keep your clothes clean.

If you’re considering new energy efficient appliances, you can explore your options with our online collection, or our team of home appliance experts can provide further guidance.

Considerations When Choosing a New Range Hood

Having the right range hood provides more than just avoiding setting off the smoke alarm in your kitchen. A good range hood provides vital ventilation for your kitchen, to avoid steam and food particles damaging your cabinetry and preventing cooking smells from permeating into other areas of your home. With such a vital role, it is essential that you choose the right model for your kitchen, so here we’ll explore considerations to help you make your purchase decision.

Assess the Exhaust System

When choosing a new range hood, you’ll find that there are several options for exhaust systems. As the name suggests, ducted or vented systems use ducts to channel the air away and out of your home. This means that you shouldn’t vent into an interior space inside your home, such as an adjacent room or attic. Ducted models require mounting the hood to an exterior wall for shorter and more efficient ducting. If you need to take the ducting further, it will make the installation and potential future maintenance more complicated and expensive.

Duct-free or non vented systems filter, clean and return the air to your kitchen. These systems are typically less efficient compared to a ducted system, and they require regular filter replacement and cleaning, so you’ll need to be prepared for maintenance tasks.

Your Kitchen Layout

The kitchen layout is a primary consideration for choosing a new range hood. You’ll need to know the space you’re working with and whether the hood should be wall mounted, incorporated into the cabinetry, suspended from the ceiling or made part of an overhead canopy. A general rule of thumb is to mount the hood 24-30 inches higher than the cooktop, but you should always check the manufacturer recommendations.

Calculate Your Fan Power

The size of space will dictate the power requirements of the exhaust hood fan. You need sufficient power to clear the air and prevent strong cooking odors lingering. The calculation to determine your fan power requirements is based on the volume of your room, so multiply the length, width and ceiling height of your kitchen. Ideally, choose a range hood with the capacity to clean or replace the air in your kitchen volume eight times every hour.  The exhaust fan will be labeled with the CFM rating, which is cubic feet per minute. So, if your exhaust fan has a 1,000 CFM rating, it can remove the air from a 10ftx10ftx10ft kitchen in one minute. Multiply this figure by 60, and you will determine how much air can be moved in an hour.

Consider Noise

While you may think that the most powerful range hood is the best option, if it sounds like a jet engine in your kitchen, you’re not likely to use it very often. Home appliance experts suggest choosing a model that draws air towards the perimeter or edges of the hood, rather than over a large area. This makes the hood more efficient and also reduces the noise level. If possible, test the hood in the showroom to check how noisy it will be in your kitchen.

Choose the Right Style

Range hoods are available in a fantastic variety of styles, so it is relatively simple to choose one to suit your kitchen decor. It is worth thinking about whether a material is easy to clean or will need special maintenance, whether it is more costly than a simpler model and whether it complements the general architectural style of your kitchen and home. The right style of range hood can seamlessly blend into your kitchen or make a bold statement, but you’ll need to decide which look you prefer.

If you’re thinking about a new range hood, you can explore your options with this online range hood collection or for further help contact a home appliance expert.

What’s The Difference Between a Rangetop & Cooktop?

Today’s kitchens breathe life into your home by playing host to a variety of powerful and advanced cooking appliances, helping you bring culinary dreams to life with ease. When designing your kitchen, you’ll definitely want to invest in either a cooktop or rangetop, but what’s the difference between these two appliances?

Cooktops and rangetops provide many of the same functions, but contrary to popular belief, these appliances are not the same. To help you explore your options, we’re breaking down the differences between cooktops and rangetops.

Rangetops vs. Cooktops

When comparing these two appliances, the main difference comes down to their basic design. The standard cooktop is a drop-in unit that is installed within a kitchen counter, featuring control knobs on the top of the appliance. Meanwhile, a rangetop is a slide-in unit installed within your countertops, flanked on each side by the counter itself. This design features control knobs on the front of the appliance, just like a cooking range. Your preference in knob placement will likely be a deciding factor in whether you invest in a cooktop or rangetop, though there are other minor differences that will also impact your decision.

Pros & Cons of Cooktops

Cooktops are commonly found in a host of homes, and like any other appliance come with their own set of pros and cons.

These appliances are designed for everyday home use, and there are several types of cooktops designed to match your specific needs. Gas cooktops, electric cooktops and induction cooktops are all popular choices, allowing you to choose between different fuel sources to find the right appliance for your home. Moreover, compared to most rangetops, the average cooktop requires a smaller countertop cutout space for installation.

While cooktops are a popular choice, these units do have their drawbacks. There are many exceptional premium cooktops available on today’s market, but there are also countless lower-end models that may not meet the demands of a busy kitchen. To find the right option, you’ll need to do a lot of research. Furthermore, some homeowners do not like how cooktop controls are located on the top of the appliance, as this can present a minor risk of burns if making adjustments while cooking.

Pros & Cons of Rangetops

If you’re looking for pro-style in your kitchen, then a rangetop may be the appliance for you. These units are commonly found in professional kitchens, and are ideally suited for avid home cooks that want to bring commercial-grade quality to their kitchen.

Most rangetops are pro-style units, meaning they offer superior power and heating functions that allow you to cook quickly, helping you save time in the kitchen. However, the greatest benefit of these models is their control knob orientation. With controls on the front of the appliance, you have easy access to the knobs while cooking, ensuring that you never have to reach over your pots and pans to adjust burner temperatures. This design significantly decreases the chance that you’ll burn yourself while cooking.

Rangetops are great for many kitchens, but you’ll need to ensure that you have enough space for your unit before making an investment. These appliances typically require more counter space for installation than a standard cooktop. Moreover, rangetops often come at a higher price than the average cooktops. However, their advanced heating capabilities and professional style makes the cost more than worth it.

Superior Rangetops & Cooktops For The Modern Kitchen

A great cooktop or rangetop is a must-have appliance in every kitchen, providing the strong heat and cooking surface required for crafting a wide array or exciting recipes. Thanks to a host of superior options available from a range of premium brands, there’s no doubt that you’ll find the perfect rangetop or cooktop for your home.

Looking for a new cooking appliance? You can use this online collection of cooktops or this collection of rangetops to explore your options, or contact a home appliance expert for specialized assistance.

4 Types Of Cooktops For Your Kitchen

The modern kitchen is more than just a place for cooking. It’s a gathering place for friends, family and loved ones, serving as one of the home’s central locations. Your kitchen deserves nothing but the best in cooking appliances, and a powerful, stylish cooktop is the perfect centerpiece to any kitchen.

Cooktops provide the surface you need to craft a variety of classic dishes and enticing contemporary cuisines. But with so many options on today’s market, it’s tough to know which type of cooktop is right for your home. To help you make an informed decision, we’re providing an overview on the four common types of cooktops.

Gas Cooktops

For superior heat and cooking power, you should consider a gas cooktop.

Gas cooktops are the preferred design for serious home chefs, as they offer the high temperatures and easily adjustable controls required for fast and efficient cooking. These units use an open flame as a heat source and as a result are able to reach high heat fast. While gas cooktop designs vary, many units feature a power burner designed to reach maximum temperatures quickly as well as a simmer burner for more delicate, controlled heat. Moreover, many of the best premium gas cooktops feature commercial-grade components, allowing you to cook restaurant quality meals from the comfort of your own home.

A gas cooktop is a great addition to almost any kitchen, though these appliances do come with a few minor disadvantages. First, due to their knob controls, it can be difficult to achieve the same exact cooking temperature every time the appliance is used. It’s also vital to note that gas cooktops require a proper gas connection for power. If your kitchen does not have a suitable gas line, you may need to consider another model.

Electric Cooktops

If consistent temperature control is your top concern, an electric cooktop is a good choice

The burners on these units are heated with electricity, and the unit does not require a gas connection. As a result, electric cooktops are generally easier to install than their gas counterparts. Traditional electric cooktops feature coil burners, though more modern appliances offer a smoothtop design. Regardless of the style, you can expect the burners to provide precise temperatures each and every time it’s used, as electric settings ensure consistency.

Many homeowners enjoy the comforts of an electric cooktop, though these units are known to be slightly less responsive than gas models. You’ll need to wait a little as your electric cooktop heats up or cools down, which can be frustrating to some homeowners.

Induction Cooktops

For premium cooking power, exceptional heat control and added safety, you may want to select an induction cooktop.

Induction cooktops are a type of electric cooktop that utilize electromagnetic energy to cook food. An element below the appliance’s flat ceramic surface creates a magnetic field that reacts to cookware with steel, iron, or magnetic stainless steel bottoms. The reaction creates a vibration that results in the heat you need to cook. Thanks to this unique design, there are a number of benefits to owning an induction cooktop. These models heat up much faster than traditional electric cooktops, while still offering superior temperature control. Moreover, they significantly reduce the risk of burning or kitchen fires, as they only produce heat when compatible cookware touches the surface — even when the appliance is turned on.

There are a host of advantages to having an induction cooktop, though it’s important to know that these units are typically considered to be premium, luxury appliances. That means that induction cooktops often come at a high cost, and they may not be the best choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

Rangetops

Most gas, electric and induction cooktops are “drop-in” units, designed for installation inside a cutout in your countertop. For an alternative to that design, consider a rangetop.

Rangetops offer the same functionality as cooktops, though they are installed by sliding into your countertop, extending from the rear of the counter to the front of the counter. While cooktops feature control knobs on the top of your counter, rangetops feature knobs on front of the appliance on the edge of the counter. This mimics the top design found in a common cooking range.

Most rangetops feature gas burners, though electric rangetops are also available. Much like induction cooktops, rangetops are premium appliances, and can come at a relatively high price.

Find The Perfect Cooktop For Your Kitchen

You can’t effectively cook in the kitchen without a cooktop, and thanks to a plethora of excellent choices, there’s little doubt that the perfect cooktop is out there waiting for you. Armed with some basic knowledge on the various types of cooktops, you’ll be perfectly prepared to find the ideal model for your kitchen.

Are you eager to begin your appliance search? You can explore this comprehensive online collection of cooktops or contact a home appliance professional for additional assistance.

The Benefits Of An Induction Cooktop

The modern kitchen is not complete without an exceptional cooktop, providing the steady heat you need for preparing a vast variety of home-cooked favorites and delicious new recipes. Gas cooktops and electric cooktops are common in many homes, but for advanced functionality and a truly contemporary style, you should consider an induction cooktop.

Induction cooktops are a type of electric cooktop that utilizes heat from electromagnetic energy to cook food. An element below the cooktop’s flat ceramic surface creates a magnetic field that reacts to cookware with iron, steel, or magnetic stainless steel bottoms. This reaction creates a vibration that converts to heat for cooking. These cooktops may use a non-traditional method of creating heat, but ultimately there are many benefits to investing in an induction cooktop.

Induction Cooktops Heat & Cool Fast

Electric cooktops are notorious for the long periods they take to heat up and cool down. Gas cooktops offer fast temperature adjustments, but that comes through the use of potentially dangerous flames. For the ideal alternative, you can use an induction cooktop.

The biggest benefit to an induction cooktop is the fact that it can heat and cool very quickly. The electromagnetic vibration that produces heat helps your pots and pans reach full heat almost as soon as you set the temperature. This saves time while cooking, reducing stress in the kitchen and allowing you to enjoy freshly cooked dishes even if you’re pressed for time.

 Exceptional Temperature Control

Along with fast heating and cooling, induction cooktops also offer exceptional temperature control. Most of these appliances feature a wider range of temperature settings than gas or electric counterparts, allowing you to find the ideal choice for all your cooking needs. Whether you need a low heat to simmer boiling water or high heat to create the perfect sear on a piece of chicken, you’ll be able to find the proper temperature for any dish.

Promotes Safety & Reduces Risk of Burns

Induction cooktops are extremely safe to use. These burners only produce heat when the proper cookware is touching the cooking surface, so if you accidentally turn on a burner without cookware on it, you won’t have to worry about getting burned. Even during proper use, only places where cookware touches the surface will generate heat, with the rest of the cooktop remaining cool. This greatly reduces the chance of burning yourself while cooking.

It’s also very uncommon for induction cooktops to cause kitchen fires. The open flame of a gas cooktop is always a fire risk, and the electric coils of an electric cooktop can also potentially cause fires. Thanks to their electromagnetic heat source, induction cooktops will not spark flames in your kitchen.

Induction Cooktops Are Easy To Clean

The flat ceramic surface of an induction cooktop makes it exceptionally easy to clean. All you need to do is wipe down the top with standard kitchen cleaner once you’re done cooking. Moreover, because heat is only created in the cookware itself, the surface of the cooktop remains cool, preventing spilled food from getting baked on the surface.

 Modern & Luxurious Style

The contemporary kitchen requires exceptional style. You can find attractive gas and electric cooktops, but for a truly integrated kitchen design, you’ll want to consider an induction cooktop.

Induction cooktops provide a clean and uncluttered cooking surface with a modern aesthetic that is ideal for today’s homes. This style of cooktop will bring a minimalist feel to your kitchen, providing all the cooking power you need with a sleek, luxurious, and unobtrusive design.

Bring Power & Style To Your Kitchen With An Induction Cooktop

The modern home requires modern cooking solutions, and an induction cooktop is sure to provide all the power you need. Thanks to advanced features, superior temperature control, and elegant designs, investing in an induction cooktop is an excellent choice.

For innovative solutions to your induction cooktop needs, consider browsing this extensive collection of induction cooktops.