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Using an induction hob is all about magnetism – literally. You’re going to need pots and pans that magnetise to the surface – and that’s just the beginning!
Induction hobs have proven to be very efficient – they’re extremely popular! That being said, making the switch from something like a gas or an electric hob to an induction hob can be a little daunting. They do work differently and require a specific kind of maintenance to ensure their longevity.
However, once you do get the hang of how to operate an induction hob, it will become second nature, and you will not regret making the change. Yes – there are pros and cons to induction hobs – but trust us, the team here at Which Kitchen Appliance has never looked back.
How to turn on an induction hob
Turning on an induction hob will vary from model to model, so it’s best to refer to the manual – but here’s a quick run-through.
On a standard induction hob control panel, there should be two, three, four, or five symbols (depending on how many rings you have on your cooktop). In order to power up the ring that you want to use, you simply need to hold in the ‘on’ switch or symbol until it starts to heat up.
In order to ensure that the ring that you want does indeed heat up, remember to place your pot or pan on the ring, before starting it, as an induction hob will not turn on without sensing a pan on it. As you turn it on, you should be able to hear a beeping sound, and a buzzing as the pan begins to heat.
If your hob is beeping too much, and the pan is not heating up, it could be that the lock is still on on the hob. Next to the ring control panel, you should be able to see other features, including a timer, and potentially a lock.
Hold on to the lock symbol until you hear your hob beep twice, which should indicate that it is now ready to use.
When you have finished with the hob, it is a good idea to turn on the feature again, as this will allow you to leave pots and pans on the stove safely.
How to work an induction hob
Again, induction hobs will vary – but providing it’s switched on, working an induction hob is as simple as placing your pot or pan onto the ring of choice – and it’ll start cooking.
This is all about the magnetism that induction surfaces use in co-ordination with cast iron or stainless steel. Many modern induction hobs will also have safety features that allow you to move your pots and pans away, and for the heat to cut out.
We’d suggest taking a close look at your instruction manual before getting started with an induction hob at all – even if you’re used to other models. Despite their safety features, these units can still cause harm if used improperly. Be careful!
Beyond this, as with traditional hobs, running an induction cooktop should be relatively straightforward. Manage the heat on your zones / rings from your control panel, and keep a close eye. Some induction hobs arrive with timers built in, which too can help to keep you safe.
It’s a good idea to try and accustom yourself to the instruction manual before you start using an induction hob – why not download it from the manufacturer’s website?
How to properly maintain an induction hob
Maintaining an induction hob from use to use is pretty simple – when it’s not in use, cover it up – and when it’s cooled down, give it a wipe and a dry.
It can be easy after a long night of cooking to just think that you will leave the mess until tomorrow, but when it comes to almost any induction hob, it is best to tackle the challenge as soon as you can.
Once it is cool, wipe away any food spillages or stains. Grease can be a pain to remove (as it is to remove anywhere) – however, the worst case scenario is if food burns onto the induction hob. That’s when you may need a specialist tool – or even a knife, if you’re careful – to remove anything burned on.
Maintaining your hob also means being careful about what you put on it. Prepare your food away from the hob to avoid food debris and juices falling on the surface. Not only will that make your cleanup easier, but it will also better ensure the longevity of your hob.
Finally, you should be careful about the bases of your pots and pans. Of course, your hob will not turn on if the bases of your pots and pans aren’t magnetic – however, you should always ensure that they are completely clean, too.
They could have been resting on your work surface, have burnt food stuck to the bottom, been dropped on the floor – the list goes on. Ultimately, you do not want anything between the base of the pots and pans and the induction hob itself. This can easily damage it – and is easily avoidable.
Conclusion
As you can see, it really could not be any more straightforward when it comes to learning how to work an induction hob. Before you know it you will be cooking to perfection, from the simple boiled egg to bolognese and even the best gravy for your Sunday lunch! The main thing to remember is to be gentle with it.
They are built to last – and will take a lot of pressure! That being said, you will want to maintain its perfect finish and quality functions for as long as possible, and knowing how to use an induction hob properly will take you a long way.
Read the manual, and consult your manufacturer if you have any concerns – but otherwise, treat your cooktop with respect!
