Dang, I’d never heard of induction stoves but now I’m thinking about getting an induction hot plate for the kitchen.
I have an induction hot plate, and it’s incredible. It boils water so fast it’s stupid. They’re by far the most efficient means of heat transfer. Only caveat is that you need steel pots and pans, because the induction current only reacts with iron.
“Steel” isn’t quite enough; some older stainless steel pots won’t work with induction.
The test to apply is to see if a magnet sticks to the bottom of the pot. If it does, you’re good to go.
Oh what fun! I’m walking around the kitchen sticking fridge magnets to pots as my wife is looks on in puzzlement. Most have passed the test! I think there will indeed be an induction hot plate in our near future. Thanks for the advice and positive testimonials!
I wonder why. Maybe too much nickel plating?
The 18/8 stainless steel widely used for pots and utensils isn’t ferromagnetic; newer stainless steel pots made out that alloy have an iron plate embedded inside the stainless steel on the bottom.
Good to know. Thanks!
Sadly, not a good idea for me. I have Tourette’s and always have a low level shake that can sometimes turn into a jerk. That and a glass surface while handling heavy metal pots and pans is…
A bad idea, typically
I had an induction hot plate before I had an induction stove. They’re really amazing. I strongly recommend getting one with a built-in thermostat; those let you fry without generating smoke.
I’ll note that in the US, the 120v 15a circuits mean that you won’t see boil-water-fast for large pots using a hot plate.
I had an induction hot plate before I had an induction stove.
It’s the gateway drug, isn’t it…
I really want to get rid of all my gas appliances, not just because of the climate or indoor air quality benefits, but also so that I can cancel my gas service and have one less utility bill. (Especially since a big chunk of my bill is the infrastructure maintenance fee that I get charged whether I use much gas or not.)
On a related note, knowing about these options and switching to them are very different things. I’ve known about and wanted induction and heat pumps for over a decade, but can’t afford it/justify the expense until my existing appliances fail.
You may be waiting a very long time. Appliances sometimes last many decades.
If you’re in the US, take a look at the Inflation Reduction Act subsidies and at whether there are state/local/utility run incentives. Those can make it a bit easier if you have appliances which are approaching end-of-life.
I’ll also note that heat pumps may pay for themselves if you’re currently heating with propane or fuel oil.