What is the difference between an induction cooker and an electric cooker?
Any housewife would like to cook on a modern and functional kitchen stove. The stores offer a huge selection of electric and induction cookers. Which one should you choose? Do kitchen appliances have anything in common and what are the differences? And, most importantly, which unit cooks better?
The content of the article
Comparison of electric and induction cookers
Induction and electric stoves operate on mains power - this is where their similarities end. Induction devices are very economical in terms of electricity costs. The point is that as soon as the dishes are removed from the surface of the stove, the electricity automatically turns off, while for an electric stove it makes no difference whether something is on the panel or not.
Induction cookers are safer to use:
- They don't get very hot.
- The panel cools down much faster.
That is why it is almost impossible to get burned when operating an induction unit. This distinguishes induction models from electric ones, which require caution when working with them.
When comparing induction and electric ovens, we must not forget that when cooking on an induction cooker, it is advisable to use specialized kitchen utensils that have certain characteristics and absorb as much energy as possible generated by magnetic fields.
Pros and cons of an induction cooker
In European countries, induction kitchen appliances are widely popular. Meanwhile, in our country, consumers treat devices of this type with caution. This is due to the fact that such products are surrounded by myths. How to figure out whether they correspond to the truth, how does an induction panel differ from traditional kitchen equipment?
IMPORTANT! The fact that induction panels are absolutely safe has been proven by multiple studies constantly carried out by both manufacturers and independent experts. It has been suggested that these kitchen appliances emit a high electromagnetic field. Meanwhile, an ordinary home hair dryer generates fields hundreds of times more powerful.
Many people consider it a disadvantage that only special cookware can be used to cook food on an induction panel. During the cooking process, the pan heats up, but not the panel itself. This approach minimizes the likelihood of injury and food burning. Many modern models are equipped with an additional security system that does not allow work to begin until the appropriate utensils are placed on the surface of the panel - that is, made of ferromagnetic material.
What can be considered objective disadvantages of this technique? With an electric stove, everything is clear - the duration of heating, low safety, etc.In comparison, an induction device can be considered an almost ideal hob, but it has its own nuances:
- Periodically conducted studies show its negative impact on other equipment. This is especially true when they are standing next to each other.
In addition, there are legends about the harm that a person receives while operating an induction furnace. Meanwhile, it has been scientifically proven that there is no reasonable evidence for this. - The cost of these devices is significantly higher than the price of traditional stoves. But for those who care about the functionality, safety and aesthetic appeal of kitchen appliances, such an issue as price is not of particular importance.
- Another nuance - if the stove has a single frequency generator that simultaneously serves several burners, then a decrease in power may occur when they are turned on simultaneously.
- Quite often, during its use, a serious load is placed on the electrical wiring and if it is old or unable to withstand the applied load, then operating the induction furnace becomes dangerous.
Pros and cons of an electric stove
Electric stoves have become widespread in Russia. Their popularity is comparable to their gas counterparts. In order to understand what is the difference between electric cookers and induction cookers, you must first find out the advantages of the former.
The main advantage of electrical devices is that they have a wide range, made in different colors and designs. That is why they can suit any kitchen interior.
REFERENCE! The surfaces of electrical devices are designed in such a way that they do not require complex care and to clean them it is enough to use ordinary dishwashing detergents that can be found in any kitchen.
Like almost any technology, models of this class also have disadvantages:
- slabs of this class do not have a deflection, i.e., when it gets on the surface, the liquid will spread, which will cause some trouble during cleaning - especially if it is carried out over time;
- dependence on the availability of electricity - if it is turned off, household members may be left without lunch;
- the use of these panels is limited by the weight they can support; in addition, for normal operation it is necessary to use kitchen utensils comparable to the usable area of the panel.
What to consider when choosing a cooker
The modern market offers consumers a wide range of such equipment. And a completely understandable question arises - there is an algorithm that allows you to choose a slab that is suitable in all respects. It's actually quite simple. To select a slab, you must answer the following questions:
- What size slab is needed?
- What should the surface material of the slab be made of?
- Which control method is preferable?
- Types of burners?
- Oven and its capabilities?
- What features and options are needed?
- How much power does the device need?
After answering the questions asked, you can go to the store and look at the proposed slab options.