The new technological era has made cooktops an essential asset in the kitchen. But how do you know the best cooktop for your kitchen needs? Which cooktop would you settle on given a choice between an Induction cooktop and a Ceramic cooktop?
In this article, we explain the exciting differences between Induction cooktops and ceramic cooktops. We hope this piece will help you settle on the best.
Differences between induction and ceramic cooktops
Here are the seven main differences between the two.
1. Heat-producing Mechanism
When compared to induction cooktops, ceramic cooktops have different methods of producing heat to cook. Ceramic cooktops have coiled metal parts beneath the ceramic layer that is connected to the socket. The coil radiates heat to the cooktop’s surface immediately when you switch on the socket.
On the other hand, heat in an Induction cooktop is generated inside the cookware via electromagnetic induction. Induction cooktops function on the principle of magnetism-induced heat energy.
2. Heat and Temperature Control
Induction cooktops are superior and very efficient when compared to ceramic cooktops. You can be assured of cooking your meals with close to 85-90% of the heat energy dissipated by your induction cooktop. This is very efficient compared to the huge heat energy percentage wasted when using a ceramic cooktop. Ceramic cooktops are poor conductors of heat. This means that ceramic cooktops need time to heat up and heat down.
3. Speed
Closely related to efficient heat consumption is speed. This factor alone places induction cooktops in the first position when heating food or boiling water faster. An Induction cooktop heats up in 20 seconds. Shockingly, you can boil water on an induction cooktop in less than a minute. This feature is unmatched, especially keeping in mind that ceramic cooktops take more time to heat up.
4. Desirable Cookware
Ceramic cooktops are not very sensitive when it comes to the choice of cookware. The baseline would be to settle on smooth and flat-based cookware. Your cookware choice should be non-abrasive cookware that fits comfortably on the cooktop and does not scratch. However, you should avoid using aluminum pots as they can mar your surface irreparably. Enamel pots and pans also tend to stick to hot surfaces and should be done away with.
In comparison, induction cooktops only use induction-ready pans and sauces. This means that your cookware should be made of magnetically conductive material. Some ferrous cookware includes cast iron, enameled iron, and hardened stainless steel.
5. Safety
Induction cooktops are very safe compared to ceramic cooktops. With induction cooktops, the heat produced by the cooktop is only confined inside your cookware. This, in turn, does not affect the kitchen’s temperatures compared to when using a ceramic cooktop. Induction cooktops, therefore, reduce the risk of burns and accidents during and after cooking.
Induction cooktops automatically switch off when a pan is removed from the cooktop. Specific induction cooktop models have child lock features, and some can even switch themselves off when a spillage occurs. These features make induction cooktops ideal in households with children as it also has child lock features.
The entire cooking zone is heated in ceramic cooktops, which leaves the kitchen very warm and sometimes smoky. Additionally, the fact that ceramic cooktops take a long before cooling poses an injury risk to the user and other persons who unconsciously frequent the kitchen.
6. Affordability
Ceramic cooktops are an excellent option for lean budgets. The cooktops are by far cheaper than induction cooktops. The comfort of using an efficient, safe, and popular induction cooktop comes at a significant price. Another factor that could have exaggerated the cost of operating an induction cooktop is that you need unique and specific cookware when using an induction cooktop.
7. Ease of Cleaning
Luckily, both the induction and ceramic cooktops are relatively easy to clean. All you need is a damp cloth, mild detergent, and a clean, soft towel for drying. However, you should be careful when cleaning a ceramic cooktop as the cooktop remains hot for a longer duration. Look out for spilled food that can bake or burn on the surface if not hastily cleared off. Additionally, you should be careful not to crack your ceramic cooktop by sprinkling cold water on the heating element, especially if it’s still hot and radiating heat. Considering the fragility of a ceramic cooktop, we can agree that it would be easy and more fun to clean an induction cooktop.
What Pans Should not be Used on Ceramic Cooktops?
The best way to properly use ceramic-glass cooktops is to ensure you use suitable cookware. Be cautious of cookware that may scratch the glass in the ceramic or interfere with the heating element. You should also avoid cookware with rough finishes as well as those with rounded edge bottoms. Such cookware blocks heat distribution and should be kept at bay.
The best pots and pans for a ceramic cooktop are enameled aluminum and carbonized or stainless steel. Your cookware should also be flat with a smooth bottom to avoid damage. These materials not only conduct heat marvelously but also ensure that your food is evenly cooked
Tip: We recommend using well-sized cookware that sits comfortably at the center of your cooktop and completely covers the coil. Always make sure that your saucepan is in good contact with your cooktop. Be very careful when using metal cooking spoons. If possible, avoid them as they may allow current to flow through your body.
Can I Use a Cast Iron Pan on a Ceramic Cooktop?
No. You should never use cast iron cookware on a smooth ceramic cooktop. Cast iron bottoms are usually very rough and damaging. Unnecessary movement of cast iron cookware on a ceramic cooktop can leave sore scratches. You should also avoid cookware made of stone and porcelain.
Which is the Best Way to Clean a Ceramic Glass Cooktop?
Cleaning a ceramic glass cooktop does not have to be a daunting task. At least not with these cleaning tips.
- Always use a glass-ceramic cleaner/detergent when cleaning a ceramic cooktop. This detergent is suitable for removing grease splatters and burnt-on dirt and will leave your unit shiny and spectacular.
- You can be assured that the light abrasive particles and active ingredients in the detergent can handle any stain or spill size. In case of coarse soiling, say caramelized sugar, carefully scrape it out with a metal scraper. Next, sprinkle some of the detergents on your cooktop and rub it in circular motions. The rule of thumb is to make sure that your cooktop is adequately cooled before cleaning it.
- Wipe off the dampened messy sight with a dry paper towel.
- It is advisable to reseal your cooktop after cleaning it, especially if you do not use it immediately after cleaning.
CAUTION
Below are some of the items you should never use on your ceramic cooktop.
- Knives or sharp pointed objects should not be used to remove burnt spillage from your cooktop. Instead, use a metal cleaning scraper.
- Resist using steel wool on your cooktop as it will end up scratching your unit
- Keep off any aggressive scouring cream. Such detergents only end up damaging your lovely ceramic cooktop.
- Limit the use of an oven cleaner on your ceramic cooktop.
- Don’t experiment with every ceramic cleaning process or agent you bump onto on the internet. Most cleaning tips are not safe, and you will only end up damaging your cooktop.
What are the Common Ceramic Cooktop Problems?
Just like most kitchen appliances, ceramic cooktops are also prone to various problems. Below, we highlight common ceramic cooktop problems, their causes, and possible solutions. Educating yourself on some of the most common cooktop issues will prepare you for ways to tackle both challenging and straightforward repair projects. Although you can easily tackle most of the cooktop problems, always consult a repair professional.
1. Cooktop Won’t Turn On
Is your cooktop not turning on? The simplest explanation of why your cooktop fails to turn up is that it is not plugged in. Unplugged cooktops cannot operate. Always ensure that your cooktop is connected correctly. To confirm that your outlet is not defective, use a multimeter or test it by attempting to use another small appliance like an iron. You should contact an electrician if you find out that your tests have failed.
2. Cooktop Keeps Turning Off
Does your cooktop keep turning off? If so, worry not; this is one of the safety features. Under normal circumstances, this happens when the surface of your cooktop gets too hot. To prevent this from happening, make sure the diameter of your cookware is the same size as the burner of your induction cooktop. You should not use cookware that’s too small or too big for your burner.
3. The Cooktop Seems not to Adjust the Burners’ Temperature
The fact that ceramic cooktops have precise temperature settings is one reason why most people invest in cooktops. An issue with the temperature setting would, therefore, limit your cooktop’s use. A common reason for this mishap would be a faulty switch. To rectify this, you would need the input of a trained electrician.
4. There are Sparks When You Turn on Your Cooktop
Typically, a functional cooktop would not spark a gas cooktop the same way before it’s lit. An occurrence of such an incident would insinuate a damaged heating element. This could also be a sign of loose wire connections. Whatever the reason, sparks are not a good sign. Their frequent occurrence can be fatal. Be sure to consult your electrical technician for hasty repairs.
5. The Electric Coil is not Heating Up
Several issues could be responsible for a non-heating electric coil. A common explanation for this issue would be a loose connection between the coils and the cooktop. Improperly installed coils would interfere with power reception. Another reason would be a compromised cooktop’s internal ignition switch. This complicated situation, and you should call for the assistance of a professional appliance repairer.
6. Indicator Lights Won’t Turn On
An active display of indicator light conveniently updates you on your unit’s temperature settings. If your indicator lights won’t turn on, there is a possibility of a defective control switch. This could also mean that your bulbs are burned-out, and they ought to be replaced.
7. A Cracked Ceramic Glass Electric Cooktop
Unfortunately, ceramic glass cooktops are vulnerable to cracks and scratches. The two most common reasons why glass cooktops crack are heavy pot impacts or a sabotaging hot spot. The hot spot could be created by burnt-on food or excessive heat from one of the burners. Cracks significantly interfere with both the aesthetics and functionality of your cooktop. It is, therefore, important to in as much as possible minimize the occurrence of cracks.
8. Damaged or Worn Out Cooktop’s Electric Coils
Cracks on the coils are some of the tale signs you should look out for in case of a damaged cooktop. This should be a call for repair and, in some extreme cases, a need to invest in recent induction models.
Which is the Best Ceramic Cooker?
The market is currently flooded with different brands of ceramic cooktops. Although this is a good thing, it could also make a very confusing affair to purchase a ceramic cooktop. For these reasons, we have taken it upon ourselves to research and present to you the best ceramic cooktop options in terms of affordability, quality, and ease of use.
Below are the top six most efficient, stylish, easy-to-use, and clean ceramic cooktops. These cooktop brands have safety and other advanced features that make them blend in your kitchen seamlessly.
- Whirlpool ceramic cooktop
- Samsung C61R2AEE
- Bosch Series 2 PKE611CA1E
- Neff N70 T18FD36X0
- GIONIEN GCE460TC
- Zanussi ZV614MK
Regardless of your choice of ceramic cooktop option, always consider your kitchen space and your cooking needs. You should also make sure that a professional electrician makes all your installations.
As we wrap up, we wish to insist on the importance of cleaning your ceramic cooktop after each use and immediately after spillage to continue enjoying the great features the cooktops offer. You should also never use dirty-bottomed pans or damaged pots as they cause scratches and reduce your cooktop’s effectiveness. We hope you have enjoyed the read. We wish you efficiency and safety as you use your cooktop.
