Induction hob: pros and cons and health effects

Today, cooking has reached a new level of development. Now, among a wide range of kitchen appliances can be found, except gas and electric stoveinduction panel. Previously, the demand for such plates was low, since many consumers were apprehensive about choosing an expensive device and, in the end, chose proven models. And halogen models were successful in restaurants, where they appreciated it, as this kind of stove is not only convenient and economical, but also functional. Since in most houses we spend most of the time in the kitchen, buyers are painstakingly approaching the approach of choosing one of its most important elements. Therefore, in order not to make a mistake in the purchase, pay attention to the pros and cons, as well as a detailed description of the properties induction hobthat are discussed in this article.

Induction hob: pros and cons and health effects

Features

Induction hob

Before you understand the positive and negative qualities of an induction cooker, consider the principle of its operation. The main feature of this technique is its safety, because, unlike other types of plates, its surface does not heat up during operation. This is due to the fact that the functioning of the plate depends on the energy of the magnetic field. In the burners under the glass-ceramic surface there is an electromagnetic coil that conducts current with a frequency of 20-60 kHz. The impact of this coil is directed directly to the bottom of the dishes intended for cooking on induction cookers. Such utensils are a secondary winding, in connection with which, its bottom conducts an induction current, due to which it is the dishes and products in it that are heated, and the stove remains cold. To cook on such a stove, it is necessary to purchase ferromagnetic utensils, that is, the material from which it should be made - stainless steel or cast iron.

An example of the effect of a plate directly on dishes

The considered type of plate is still interesting in that it has a built-in automatic inclusion function. As soon as the dishes occupy at least 70% of the heating pancake, the stove automatically starts working. In addition, in 95% of electric stoves of this type, it is possible to adjust the power from one burner to another, this function is called a “booster”. For example, on a gas or halogen stove, a liter of water will boil after 5-6 minutes, and on an induction stove - after 2-3 minutes. In such a stove, the highest level of efficiency is 90%, while in ordinary electric stoves it reaches 60%, and in gas stoves from 30 to 60%.

Advantages and disadvantages

Today, there is a noticeable demand for induction hobs, not stoves. Induction hob has many advantages and disadvantages, but the level of its usefulness exceeds the disadvantages. Consider the main advantages:

• effective work (the process of cooking is accelerated);
• accumulation and retention of heat;
• high-quality and fast cooking (high level of efficiency);
• low level of energy consumption, which is aimed specifically at food and not the environment (consumption is half that of analogues);
• it turns on only when it recognizes the placement of special dishes from the desired material and with a bottom diameter of at least 12 centimeters (note that only the bottom of the utensil must have the necessary properties, and its walls can be from any material, including glass or ceramic);
• the walls of the dishes do not heat up, therefore, burns are excluded;
• if food has got to the surface, there will not be any traces of food, as contaminated places are easily washed;
• ease of understanding of operation;
• many programs are built in to facilitate cooking;
• it is possible to adjust the exact temperature;
• the device is compact, you can take it with you, for example, to the cottage or simply put it in a closet or a spacious box;
• convenient touch control panel;
• beautiful, stylish, modern design;
• Perfectly fits into any kitchen layout.

As with any technique, in addition to advantages, there are also disadvantages, consider them:

• some people feel uncomfortable with the sound of the panel (buzzing noise);
• You can not cook food in dishes with a diameter of less than 12 centimeters, for example, a Turk;
• glass-ceramic surface is highly susceptible to mechanical damage, scratches can greatly affect the quality of the device;
• special dishes - expensive;
• there are some features in the installation of equipment;
• since the stove gives electromagnetic radiation, it can not be placed next to metal appliances (refrigerator, machine), as this can cause a malfunction in their work;
• the cost significantly exceeds the price of other types of stoves;
• if you use a pacemaker, it is better to abandon the induction cooker, as it will have a negative effect on the device.

In addition, it is argued that the induction cooker is badly detrimental to human health, but we will deal with this in more detail below.

Choosing the right dishes

Many people believe that acquiring an induction hob, it will be necessary to abandon all your favorite dishes and replace it with a special ferromagnetic one. In fact, some cookware may work, just like any expensive induction cookware. In order to check whether your utensils are suitable, bring a magnet to its bottom, if it is magnetized, then the dishes are suitable for interaction with an induction cooker. Pay attention to the material from which your dishes are made, if enameled steel, cast iron or stainless steel, then you can safely leave such utensils in the list used. Most people like glass and ceramic dishes, if you have such dishes, you can turn it into a ferromagnetic one by attaching a special alloy metal disk to its bottom.

Special drive

Installation Features

Many of the drawbacks of this slab are the complexity of its installation. If you correctly plan the arrangement of equipment in the kitchen in advance and provide for protection, then the problem can be easily eliminated. As already mentioned, it is better not to install the induction cooker near the dishwasher, refrigerator or over the oven. When installing, the master must be very careful not to damage the fragile panel. In addition, experts recommend connecting a power cable. The cut-out place on the countertop intended for the installation of the slab must be covered with silicone sealant or furniture edge to protect it from moisture.

Is modern induction cookers harmful - rebuttal of myth

There is an opinion that forces consumers to choose another stove - that induction cookers are harmful to human health. So say those who do not understand the principle of operation of this device. It is important to note that if you follow the rules for using this equipment, then it will not be hazardous to health, since the level of its electromagnetic radiation is not higher than that of mobile devices, tablets, etc.The only exception, as already mentioned, are people with a pacemaker, but if they are half a meter from the stove, then there can be no failure in the device.

In addition, many argue that such a stove has a negative effect on food during cooking. This is a myth, since the magnetic field does not harm the composition of food and its qualities. It is worth noting that in the plates of the highest quality, the radiation does not go beyond the panel (extends to no more than 35 centimeters). So, if you use this technique correctly, it will not be harmful to humans.

Choose the right one

Today induction stoves have a high price category, which is their significant drawback, but it is worth considering that such stoves save energy consumption very well, so the high price will soon pay off. The price of such a plate, depending on the quality, brand, number of functions, varies from 17 to 100 thousand rubles. In the Russian market, the range of induction cookers is not wide. Based on expert opinions and customer reviews, one of the best models is AEG-Electrolux. This model is a reliable option, with good quality and appropriate price. Pay attention to the Electrolux EKD 513502 X.

Model Electrolux EKD 513502 X.

This is a dependent installation stove with induction hobs. The assortment also has Italian-made ILVE boards, but the price category of models of this brand starts at 100 thousand rubles. A popular brand is BOSCH, which presents hobs with four burners of various designs and has a wide range of functions. There are options where there are different types of burners. The price category of such equipment starts at 35 thousand. Another option is the Hansa BHI64383030 device. This is the most budget option (the price is about 15 thousand rubles), which has few options, but went through a quality assembly, so it will be a reliable purchase and will provide a long service life. In addition, heating the dishes occurs in seven seconds.

Model Hansa BHI64383030

So, if you do not need a huge number of functions, then finding a budget option of good quality will not be a problem. The advantages and disadvantages discussed in this article will help you decide if you need an induction hob. After weighing the positive and negative qualities of this technique, choose a decent option for you.