Induction Cooktop: Maintenance And Replacement Tips

Twenty years ago, the market has been introduced with the breakthrough discovery of the modern induction technology, called induction cooktop. First appearing in North America as a replacement of the butane burner, this fantastic invention seems to offer never-before-seen opportunities for outstanding cooking experiences that will be certainly written in your chef's portfolio.

The induction cooktop is an electric-powered kitchen appliance with electromagnetic fields that excite iron molecules in order to generate the heat. The very first induction cooktops were extremely costly and they were limited in controls and features. On the contrary, latest generations of induction cooktops have advanced temperature controls and power levels that make them versatile and durable pieces of cooking equipment for both commercial environments and home use.

Sales reports show that in the last couple of years, the induction cooktop has become customers' top choice for cooking appliance, thus completely overshadowing the electrical and the gas-powered stove. Normally, induction cooktops fall under two main categories: holding and cooking. When it comes to exterior, their construction ranges from aluminum housings with tempered glass tops to heavy-duty stainless steel housings with ceramic-glass composite tops.

In addition, take a look at our carefully selected tips on how to properly maintain your cooktop and when it is time to replace it.

How To Maintain Your Induction Cooktop

If you aim towards maximum cooking results and food safety, you should make sure to keep your cooktop always clean and food-debris-free. Although induction cooktops are pretty easy to clean and maintain, there are few important things you need to take into consideration:

• Avoid cleaning the cooktop's surface with abrasive cleaners, as they will scratch it and ruin its proper function and beauty.
• Make sure the tempered glass cooking surfaces are cool before you proceed with wiping them.
• Clean the air intake and exhaust regularly to ensure proper cooling of all internal components.

When Is 'Replacement Time'?

Once you notice any of the following three signs at your induction cooktop, you can start thinking of replacing it with a new one.

• Surface Damage – If the cooktop 'suffers' from cracked or damaged surface, you should immediately stop using it and replace it. Make sure the cooktop is disconnected from its power source.
• Ceased Operation – Modern and sophisticated induction cooktops come with self-diagnostic features that alert the user each time there is a problem occurring during operation. Common issues are overheating and blocked grease filters. If any, replace your cooktop.
• Compromised Cooking - If your cooktop has lost its capability to maintain proper temperatures or to read induction-ready pans, 'replacement time' has come.

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