Ease of use
Both types of devices are much more convenient gas stovesbut they work differently. The electric panel first becomes hot by itself, and then heats up the dishes: this is due to the thermal energy that the conductor transfers. For cooking, you can use dishes made of various materials, but always with a flat and thick bottom, the diameter of which must match the size of the burner (this will help to avoid heat loss).
Induction surface heats the dishes and their contents, and the diameter of the bottom does not matter - the main thing is that the material is magnetized. Cast iron and enamel pots will do. with an absolutely flat bottom, as well as stainless steel containers.
Both types of panels, unlike gas, are quite quiet. But if the electric stove is absolutely silent, then induction emits specific sounds when the cooling fans are turned on. According to user reviews, you quickly get used to them and stop noticing them.
Electrical and induction devices differ in a variety of dimensions, which allows them to be built into any kitchen set. The first type of product can have from two to five burners, and the second - from one to six. Management can be both touch and mechanical.
Cooking speed
It will take about five minutes for the electric panel to heat up the hotplate, and it will take about ten more minutes to boil the water. It also cools down slowly, so on the turned off surface the finished dish may "languish" for some time.
Have induction hob is a significant advantage here - the electromagnetic current immediately heats the dishes, so it takes about 5 minutes for the water to boil. In this case, the temperature of the burner remains within 60 degrees. According to the owners, you should get used to this speed so that the food does not burn.
There are induction cookers with sensors that control the temperature of heating the water, preventing it from boiling until it "runs away".
Safety
Electric cookers, even the most modern ones, get hot during operation, which increases the risk of burns. This is especially important for families with small children.
Also, do not install an electric stove next to the refrigerator: when heated, it negatively affects its operation. The induction surface remains cold enough during cooking, but due to magnetic fields relying on the switched on device is strictly prohibited.
Both types of devices can be equipped with an auto-off function: the product stops working when liquid gets on the surface. Induction hobs also recognize empty containers and foreign objects - in such cases, they are not switched on.
Despite the fact that the magnetic field of the induction panel is absent already at a distance of 3 cm from the surface, experts advise placing it at a distance from other equipment and away from boxes with metal cutlery.
Care
Both devices are resistant to abrasive materials (powders and soda), steel wool, hard sponges and concentrated acids. The electrical panel is afraid of burnt food particles and liquids containing sugar: they leave marks and damage the protective layer. Induction hobs do not heat up, so it is easier to clean them of fallen food and splashes with a soft, damp sponge.
Important protect glass-ceramic hobs from impacts from heavy and hard objects. If a crack has formed on the surface, it is prohibited to use it.
Economical use
In comparison with an electric panel, modern induction products consume one and a half, or even two times less electricity. The generation of magnetic current in the induction coil is directed only to heating the dishes and their contents, so the energy is not wasted on the surface itself.
Also, some models have a built-in energy consumption control sensor: it allows you to reduce resource consumption and save on utility bills.
Price
An induction hob, despite being economical in use, is more expensive than an electrical counterpart. The more features it has, the higher the price. Also, when installing the device, it is necessary to replace the old electrical wiring and select a separate electrical group with a separate circuit breaker, because the household appliance is powerful enough. This entails additional costs.
In comparison with induction, an electric stove is a familiar and inexpensive technique, moreover, it does not require the purchase of special dishes.
What is the difference: comparative table of characteristics
Electrical panel | Induction panel |
---|---|
Does not require special utensils. | You need a container with a ferromagnetic bottom. |
It takes more time to cook. | Heats food quickly. |
There is a risk of burns. | Safer as it heats up less. |
It is easy to damage the surface when cleaning. | Easy maintenance. |
Consumes a lot of electricity. | Allows you to save on utility bills. |
You can choose a budget model. | It is more expensive than an electric analogue. |
Each type of device has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, so choose a device based on personal preferences and financial capabilities. If the choice is difficult, consider a combination hob with different types of hotplates.