What is an induction hob & how does an induction hob work?

Induction cooking is on the rise. These innovative cooktops offer precise, fast-heating, temperature control and energy-efficient performance, making them a top choice for modern kitchens. They offer the safest, cleanest and easiest cooking experience thanks to safe responsive cooking using electromagnetic induction to transfer heat directly to your pan’s contents.

Let’s learn more below and get a whole new cooking experience like never before.

What is an induction hob?

An induction hob is a type of cooking surface with a ceramic plate and a sleek glass finish. They heat the metal pan directly rather than ‘hob to pan’ like traditional electric hobs* so they don’t waste energy heating the entire cooking surface. The hob’s surrounding area remains cool to the touch, with only the pan getting hot so you can clean it on the go, making it easy to maintain.

*Solid or sealed plate hobs & ceramic hobs.

How do induction hobs work?

Thanks to electromagnetic technology, metal pans are heated directly rather than the hob’s surface. How? Beneath the surface are copper coils. When the hob is turned on and a magnetic-based pan is placed, an electric current passes through the coils, creating a magnetic field, which induces an electric current in the pan’s base, warming it up and cooking the food inside.

Plus, once your pan is removed, it automatically shuts off until returned, helping to minimise energy consumption and eliminating the risk of accidental burns and even fires from the open flames or hot coils on traditional hobs**.

**Traditional options work by directly heating the surface, whether they have hot zones that indicate pan size or raised sections - wasting a lot of energy.

How to use an induction hob

First, make sure that your pans are suitable to use on an induction hob. Preferably use pans with magnetic elements, such as cast iron or stainless steel. Look for pans with a symbol indicating induction compatibility, or test if a magnet sticks to the bottom.

Now you’re ready to start using your induction hob. They’re easy to use once you get the hang of it. Turn it on, select your cooking zone, adjust the temperature setting, place your pan and start cooking. Once finished, turn it off. Most induction hobs feature residual heat indicators that glow red after the hob has been used to alert you if the cooking zones are still hot and unsafe to touch.

Tips:

Be mindful that they heat up and cool down much faster than traditional hobs
Some models feature boost functions, which are handy for boiling water
It’s advisable to never leave an empty pan on the hob since it’ll still heat up regardless of its contents and could overheat, creating a safety hazard
Clean your hob regularly and remember spillages can be wiped up almost immediately

How to unlock and induction hob

Two types of locks can be activated if the model you choose features them.

A key lock may be used to prevent the hob from being used while activated, or a child lock may be used to prevent little hands from tampering with any other settings within reach.

But if either is turned on by accident and you can’t turn it off, your user manual can direct you, or you can search for your model online to see how to deactivate it.

Something to keep in mind

Some people worry that induction cooking is unhealthy because of the electromagnet fields (EMFs). Just like infrared or even a microwave, they create low-frequency electromagnetic waves, which thankfully is not enough energy to cause direct health issues. However, for those with pacemakers, The British Heart Foundation (BHF) advise staying at least 60cm away from an induction hob as a precaution to ensure it doesn’t interfere with the heart device.