Induction cooktops are quickly becoming the preferred choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike. With their energy efficiency, precision cooking, and sleek design, they offer a superior cooking experience. However, to ensure they remain in top condition for years, proper care and maintenance are essential.
Did you know?
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Induction cooktops are up to 90% energy-efficient, compared to gas stoves, which convert only about 40% of their energy into heat.
- A well-maintained induction cooktop can last up to 15 years, but improper care can significantly shorten its lifespan.
- Induction cooking is safer than gas because it doesn’t produce open flames or harmful emissions like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, which have been linked to respiratory issues and childhood asthma.
Want to keep your induction cooktop in perfect condition? Here are five expert-backed tips that will help you maximize its lifespan, ensure safety, and maintain its efficiency.
1. Use Compatible Cookware
Unlike traditional gas or electric stoves, induction cooktops work by generating electromagnetic fields, which means only magnetic cookware will heat up. Using the wrong cookware can lead to inefficient heating and potential damage to your cooktop.
How to Choose the Right Cookware:
- Use induction-compatible materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, and enameled iron.
- Test with a magnet by placing it on the bottom of your cookware. If it sticks, it’s induction-ready.
- Check the base to ensure it is completely flat for maximum heat transfer and to avoid scratching the surface.
- Avoid aluminum, copper, and glass unless they have a magnetic stainless steel base.
More about induction cookware compatibility
2. Avoid Sliding Cookware on the Surface
One of the most common mistakes with induction cooktops is dragging pots and pans across the glass surface. This can cause scratches and micro-abrasions, weakening the surface over time.
What NOT to do:
- Don’t slide cookware—always lift and place it gently.
- Avoid using pots with rough or scratched bottoms, as they can wear down the glass.
- Don’t use metal utensils on the cooktop surface, as they can leave marks.
How to Prevent Scratches:
- Use an induction protector mat, like the HI NATURE™ Induction Mat, to create a barrier between your cookware and the glass.
- Regularly inspect and clean the bottom of your pots and pans to remove debris that could cause scratching.
How to properly maintain glass cooktops
3. Clean Spills Immediately to Prevent Stains
Leaving spills, grease, or burnt food on your induction cooktop can cause stubborn stains and reduce efficiency over time.
What NOT to do:
- Don’t use steel wool, abrasive sponges, or harsh chemical cleaners—they can scratch the surface.
- Avoid letting food dry out on the cooktop, as it becomes harder to clean.
How to Clean Your Induction Cooktop Properly:
- After each use, wipe the surface with a damp microfiber cloth to remove light spills.
- For tougher stains, use a mix of baking soda and white vinegar. Apply, let it sit for 10 minutes, then wipe clean.
- For stubborn grease, use a ceramic glass cooktop cleaner and a soft cloth.
- If food is burnt on, gently scrape it off with a plastic scraper (never metal).
Best cleaning practices for induction cooktops
4. Avoid Placing Hot Lids Directly on the Surface
One lesser-known issue with induction cooktops is hot lids creating a vacuum seal when placed face-down on the surface. This can cause the glass to crack when trying to remove them.
Preventing Vacuum Seals and Cracks:
- Always place hot lids on a trivet or a heat-resistant mat instead of directly on the cooktop.
- If a lid does get stuck, wait for it to cool before attempting to remove it.
How to prevent glass cooktop damage
5. Protect Against Electrical Surges
Since induction cooktops run on electricity, they are vulnerable to power surges, which can damage internal circuits.
How to Prevent Electrical Damage:
- Use a surge protector to stabilize voltage and prevent unexpected spikes.
- Ensure proper ventilation—induction cooktops have internal fans that need airflow to prevent overheating.
- Turn off the cooktop when not in use to reduce energy consumption and extend its lifespan.
- Check your home’s voltage stability—fluctuations can shorten the lifespan of your induction cooktop.
How to protect appliances from power surges
Hidden Truths: The Environmental Benefits of Induction Cooking
Most people think of energy efficiency and convenience when switching to an induction cooktop, but did you know it’s also better for the environment and your health?
- Traditional gas stoves emit pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, which can cause respiratory issues.
- Induction cooking eliminates indoor air pollution, making it a healthier choice for families.
- A 2022 study found that 12.7% of childhood asthma cases in the U.S. are linked to gas stove use (Energy.gov).
By properly maintaining your induction cooktop, you’re not only extending its lifespan but also reducing energy waste and minimizing harmful emissions in your home.
FAQs About Induction Cooktop Care
1. Do induction protectors affect cooking performance?
- No, high-quality protectors like the HI NATURE™ Induction Mat allow heat transfer while protecting the surface.
2. Can I use regular cleaning products on my induction cooktop?
- It’s best to use cleaners specifically designed for glass surfaces. Avoid abrasive cleaners or tools.
3. How can I prevent scratches on my induction cooktop?
- Use an induction mat, avoid sliding cookware, and clean regularly to remove debris.
4. Is it safe to place hot items directly on the induction cooktop?
- No, placing hot lids or pans directly on the cooktop can cause damage or create a vacuum seal that may lead to shattering.
5. How energy-efficient are induction cooktops compared to gas stoves?
- Induction cooktops are up to three times more efficient than gas stoves, leading to significant energy savings.