Induction Cooktop: Faster and Cheaper than Gas

This is among the most energy saving appliances. An induction-enabled saucepan is placed on the cooktop and this activates the heating process of the cooktop. Electricity is induced in the bottom of this saucepan. It has magnetic or ferrous material in it that makes it possible for electricity to be induced and then generate heat that cooks or boils whatever is inside the saucepan. Heat is not lost to the surroundings before reaching the food. All the generated heat is used and this results in low electricity consumption. This appliance regulates heat faster than a gas stove.

Pure aluminium and pure stainless steel saucepans will not work with this appliance, as no electricity will be induced and therefore no heat. Any other pure metal saucepan without iron in it wont work.

There are different sizes; some have a single cooking surface, others 2, others 3, etc.

The heat can easily be controlled , just like it is for a gas stove. The appliance can be set to high heat, medium heat and low heat.

Some brands can control heat using a +or – buttons, others a knob, others a touch screen panel. Most models have a timer. For example if you know a litre of milk takes 6 minutes to boil at a 1,300W medium power setting, you can set this time. Once it has elapsed, the unit switches off  and saves more electricity. 

The ones with 1 and 2 cooking surfaces or zones can be plugged into an ordinary socket since their power rating is usually below 3000W. Above 3,000W they need to be plugged into cooker socket. Remember all electrical appliances bought for use in Uganda and the East Africa region must be able to work on 240V AC voltage and 50Hz. Appliances bought in US and Canada with input voltages of 110V, 60Hz frequency cannot be plugged directly into our sockets without a step down transformer; without it they will burn.

Interested in purchasing a single zone induction cooktop? Click here