Induction Cooktops: The Future of Home Cooking
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Time to read 10 min
Introduction
As more home chefs and food enthusiasts embrace modern kitchen technology, induction cooktops are rapidly becoming a popular choice. Unlike traditional gas or electric stoves, induction cooking offers efficiency, safety, and precision , making it a game-changer in contemporary kitchens. At Folders.co.nz , we stock a wide range of induction cooktops designed to enhance your cooking experience. In this guide, we’ll explore how induction cooking works, its advantages, and tips for getting the most out of your induction cooktop.
What is an induction cooktop?
An induction cooktop is a type of stove that uses electromagnetic energy to directly heat cookware instead of relying on a flame or heated element. This method allows for instant heat adjustments , faster cooking times, and increased energy efficiency. Unlike conventional gas and electric stoves, induction cooking requires compatible cookware with a magnetic base , such as cast iron or stainless steel.
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Induction Cooking in New Zealand
1. Benefits of Cooking with an Induction Cooktop
1. Faster Cooking Times
Induction cooktops heat cookware directly, meaning there’s no energy lost in heating the air or the cooktop itself. This allows you to boil water and cook meals significantly faster compared to gas or traditional electric stoves.
2. Energy Efficiency
Since induction cooktops transfer energy directly to the pan, they are much more efficient than gas and electric stoves. This translates to lower energy consumption and reduced cooking times , saving both power and money on your electricity bill.
3. Precision Temperature Control
Induction cooktops allow for precise adjustments in temperature, making them perfect for delicate cooking tasks like melting chocolate, simmering sauces, or searing meat. The ability to instantly increase or decrease heat levels provides unmatched control over your cooking.
4. Enhanced Safety
One of the biggest advantages of induction cooktops is their safety features. Since the cooktop surface itself doesn’t get hot (only the cookware does), there’s a significantly lower risk of burns. Additionally, many induction cooktops come with auto shut-off and child safety locks , making them a great choice for families.
5. Easy to Clean
The flat, smooth surface of an induction cooktop makes it incredibly easy to clean. Since spills don’t burn onto the surface, a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough to keep it spotless.
Pros:
Faster Cooking Times – Induction cooktops heat cookware directly, allowing for quicker meal preparation compared to gas or electric stoves.
Energy Efficiency – Less heat is wasted since energy is transferred directly to the cookware, reducing electricity costs.
Precision Temperature Control – Provides immediate heat adjustments, making it perfect for delicate cooking tasks like simmering sauces and melting chocolate.
Enhanced Safety – The cooktop surface itself doesn’t get hot, reducing the risk of burns and making it safer for families with children.
Easy to Clean – A flat, smooth surface makes cleaning up spills and splatters quick and effortless.
Modern Aesthetic – Sleek and stylish, induction cooktops add a contemporary touch to any kitchen.
Cons:
Requires Compatible Cookware – Only pots and pans with a magnetic base will work on an induction cooktop, meaning some homeowners may need to replace their cookware.
Higher Initial Cost – Induction cooktops can be more expensive than traditional gas or electric stoves.
Learning Curve – Some users may need time to adjust to the precision and speed of induction cooking.
Potential for Scratches – The glass surface can be prone to scratches if cookware is dragged across it.
Requires Electricity – Unlike gas stoves, induction cooktops won’t work during power outages.
2. Tips for Cooking on a Induction Cooktop
Use Compatible Cookware: Induction cooktops require pots and pans with a magnetic base. If a magnet sticks to the bottom of your cookware, it’s induction-compatible.
Preheat Properly: While induction heats quickly, some recipes benefit from preheating for even cooking.
Avoid Dragging Cookware: Since the glass surface is prone to scratches, lift pots and pans instead of sliding them.
Clean After Each Use: Wipe down the cooktop after cooking to prevent food residue from hardening.
Use the Right Power Setting: Take advantage of the precise temperature control. Use lower settings for simmering and higher settings for searing.
Keep the Surface Dry: Moisture between the pan and cooktop can cause minor vibrations or noise.
Space Your Cookware Evenly: If using multiple burners, avoid crowding cookware to allow for even heat distribution.
3. Choosing the Right Induction Cooktop
When shopping for an induction cooktop, there are several factors to consider:
Size & Number of Burners – Induction cooktops come in various sizes, from single-burner portable units to full-sized built-in models with multiple cooking zones.
Power Levels – Look for an induction cooktop with adjustable heat settings to suit different cooking styles.
Smart Features – Some advanced models offer touch controls, timers, boost functions, and even Wi-Fi connectivity for added convenience.
Brand & Warranty – At Folders.co.nz, we stock high-quality induction cooktops from leading brands, ensuring durability and performance.
Choose Induction Friendly Pots and Pans
“When we moved to induction it was great,” she says, “because when you say simmer, it's a true simmer.”
Final Thoughts
Cooking with an induction cooktop is a smart investment for any kitchen. With faster cooking times, energy efficiency, safety features, and precise temperature control, it’s easy to see why more homeowners are making the switch. Browse our range of induction cooktops at Folders.co.nz and experience the future of home cooking today!
If you want to buy a set of global knives or try one to see if you like them, you can check out more on our store
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using an induction cooktop?
Induction cooktops offer advanced cooking technology that provides a superior experience compared to traditional gas and electric stoves. Here are the key benefits of using an induction cooktop :
1. Faster Cooking Times
Induction cooktops heat cookware directly through electromagnetic energy, eliminating the need to heat a burner or element first. This results in faster heating and boiling times , making cooking more efficient. Water can boil nearly twice as fast compared to gas or electric stoves.
2. Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings
Induction cooking transfers up to 90% of energy directly to the cookware, compared to 50–60% efficiency in gas and electric stoves. Less heat is wasted, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced electricity bills.
3. Precise Temperature Control
With instant heat adjustments, induction cooktops offer better temperature precision than gas and electric stoves. This is ideal for simmering delicate sauces, melting chocolate, and searing meat without overheating or burning.
4. Enhanced Safety Features
Induction cooktops only heat the cookware , not the surface, meaning there’s a lower risk of burns . Most models include auto shut-off features, child safety locks, and pan detection sensors , making them a safer option for families.
5. Even Heat Distribution
Unlike gas stoves that may create uneven heating, induction cooktops distribute heat evenly across the pan. This ensures consistent cooking results and reduces the chances of hot spots.
6. Easy to Clean & Maintain
Since induction cooktops don’t heat the surface, spills won’t burn onto the glass , making cleanup effortless. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough to keep the cooktop looking pristine.
Do I need special cookware for induction cooktops?
Yes, induction cooktops require special cookware with a magnetic base to work efficiently. Unlike gas or electric stoves, which heat cookware through direct contact or flame, an induction cooktop uses electromagnetic energy to generate heat. This means only cookware made from ferromagnetic materials will work on an induction surface.
How to Check If Your Cookware Is Induction-Compatible
To determine if your existing cookware will work on an induction cooktop, try these simple tests:
- Magnet Test – Hold a magnet to the bottom of the pot or pan. If the magnet sticks firmly, the cookware is induction-compatible .
- Induction Symbol – Look for an induction-ready symbol (often a coil pattern) on the cookware packaging or base.
Types of Cookware That Work on Induction Cooktops
- Cast Iron – Excellent heat retention and naturally induction-compatible.
- Stainless Steel – Works if it has a magnetic bottom (not all stainless steel is induction-compatible).
- Carbon Steel – Works well and is great for woks and skillets.
- Cookware with a Magnetic Base – Some aluminium, copper, and nonstick cookware come with an induction-friendly layer at the bottom.
How does cooking with induction compare to gas in terms of temperature control?
Both induction cooktops and gas stoves offer precise temperature control, but induction technology provides greater accuracy, speed, and efficiency . While gas has been the preferred choice for professional chefs for decades, induction is quickly becoming the top contender due to its instant response and consistent heat distribution.
Speed of Temperature Adjustments
One of the biggest advantages of induction cooking is its ability to heat cookware instantly using electromagnetic energy. Temperature changes happen immediately, similar to turning a light switch on and off. In contrast, gas stoves require a small delay as the flame size adjusts and heat transfers from the burner to the pan. This means induction is faster when it comes to heating and cooling down, making it ideal for quick cooking adjustments.
Precision & Consistency
Induction cooktops allow for precise, digital temperature settings , ensuring even heat across the cookware. This makes delicate tasks like melting chocolate, simmering sauces, or searing meat much easier without the risk of burning or overcooking. Gas stoves, while adjustable, rely on manual flame control , which can lead to fluctuations in temperature—especially at lower settings. This makes it harder to maintain a consistent, gentle simmer on gas compared to induction.
Even Heat Distribution
Heat distribution is another area where induction outperforms gas. Since induction cooktops heat the entire base of the cookware evenly , they eliminate hot spots that can cause uneven cooking. Gas stoves, on the other hand, generate heat from a flame positioned underneath the pan, which can sometimes create uneven heating , especially with larger pots and pans. This makes induction a better choice for cooking that requires uniform heat, such as frying or baking on the stovetop.
Energy Efficiency
Induction cooktops are significantly more energy-efficient than gas stoves. Up to 90% of the energy produced by induction is transferred directly to the cookware, meaning very little heat is wasted. Gas stoves, however, are less efficient , with much of the heat escaping into the air instead of being absorbed by the cookware. This not only leads to higher energy costs but also increases the ambient temperature in the kitchen, making gas cooking less comfortable in warm climates.
Cooking Performance for Different Techniques
Induction excels in tasks that require precise temperature control and even heat , such as boiling water, simmering, and searing. Water boils up to 50% faster on an induction cooktop compared to gas. Simmering sauces is easier with induction’s precise temperature settings , whereas gas can sometimes fluctuate and require constant monitoring .
However, gas still has an advantage in wok cooking . Traditional round-bottom woks perform better on gas flames due to direct heat exposure. That said, flat-bottomed woks designed for induction-compatible surfaces can still provide excellent stir-fry results on induction cooktops.
Are induction cooktops safe to use with medical devices like pacemakers?
Induction cooktops generate heat using electromagnetic fields (EMF) , which raises concerns for individuals with pacemakers or implanted medical devices . While modern pacemakers are designed with electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding , it is still important to exercise caution when using an induction cooktop .
How Induction Cooktops Affect Pacemakers
Induction cooktops work by creating a high-frequency electromagnetic field that heats cookware directly. This EMF could potentially interfere with pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) if they are in close proximity to the cooktop. Some pacemakers are programmed to detect electromagnetic signals, and strong fields may disrupt normal operation or trigger unintended responses .
Precautionary Measures for Pacemaker Users
If you or someone in your household has a pacemaker or ICD , follow these safety guidelines to minimise risk:
- Maintain Distance – Keep at least 60 cm (2 feet) between your pacemaker and the induction cooktop when it is in use.
- Use Induction-Compatible Cookware – High-quality cookware reduces stray electromagnetic fields, limiting potential interference.
- Consult Your Doctor – Always check with a cardiologist or pacemaker manufacturer for guidance on using induction cooktops safely.
- Avoid Leaning Over the Cooktop – Standing too close for extended periods may increase exposure to electromagnetic fields.
Are Newer Pacemakers Better Protected?
Yes, most modern pacemakers have improved EMI shielding and are less susceptible to interference from household appliances, including induction cooktops . However, the degree of protection varies depending on the pacemaker model and manufacturer .
What are the upfront costs and potential savings associated with induction cooktops?
In New Zealand , the upfront cost of purchasing and installing an induction cooktop is approximately $2,980 . While this may be higher than traditional gas or electric stoves, induction cooktops are known for their energy efficiency , using up to 50% less energy than conventional options.
Over time, the potential savings come from lower electricity bills and faster cooking times , which reduce energy consumption. Some models are twice as energy-efficient as standard cooktops, making them a cost-effective investment in the long run.
Although the initial investment is higher, the benefits of precise temperature control, safety features, and energy savings make induction cooktops a worthwhile choice for many New Zealand households.
