An induction burner generates energy from an electromagnetic field below a glass cooktop surface to a pot or pan above it. It has one massive advantage for cooks of all ages: it’s safer since it creates heat within the pan itself — no pan, no heat, no burning yourself on the glass top, which during use gets quite warm, but after use cools quickly. It’s magic.
Other advantages over gas and electric: it is more energy efficient, cooks fast, powers up and down like gas, and has temperature controls more precise and stable than gas or electric.
What’s not to like? Pots and pans must be induction-compatible — the bottom of the pot or pan must attract a magnet. Aluminum and copper don’t work — cast iron and black steel do. Most nonstick cookware offered today is induction-compatible.
In 2022, induction burners accounted for 31% of electric cooktops that didn’t include an oven. That number is going to go up as GE, Viking, and others are broadening their selection.
You can keep your electric stovetop and pans and have induction too. A portable induction burner to place on your granite countertop can be had for $200. From there, they range up to $1200. Top-of-the-line portable units have amazing control features not found on the $3000 stoves.
Upgrade to portable induction, which won’t burn you or your food. Ponder that . . .
