How to Cook Using an Induction Cooktop
Induction cooktops use electromagnetic energy to heat cookware directly, helping you take on everyday meals with speed and control. This guide covers how to use an induction cooktop—from step-by-step instructions to care tips and common dos and don’ts—so you can get started with confidence and make the most of your appliance.
INDUCTION COOKING 101: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU START
Induction cooktops use electromagnetism to heat cookware directly, allowing for fast, controlled cooking. You’ll need compatible cookware, may notice faster cook times and may need a professional installer for setup, depending on the current electrical wiring and power supply at your home.
Induction cooktops differ from gas and electric cooktops. Induction cooking uses electromagnetism to heat the cookware itself rather than the cooktop surface. This direct transfer of energy allows for quick temperature changes and often results in faster boil times compared to gas or electric cooktops. Unlike gas or electric cooktops, induction hobs don’t create heat while cooking—rather, the cookware does.
Here are a few things to know about induction cooktops before getting started:
Induction cookware is required. Pots and pans must be magnetically conductive—like cast iron or stainless steel. Aluminum, glass and copper cookware won’t work.
Cooking may feel faster. Because induction heats the pan directly, food tends to cook more quickly. Be sure to monitor food to avoid overcooking.
Induction cooktops use power levels. Many induction cooktops offer multiple power level settings, allowing you to fine-tune your cooking.
The surface stays cooler. Induction hobs stay relatively cool because they are not generating heat. That is done by the cookware.
- Installation may require an electrician. Depending on your home’s wiring, installing an induction cooktop might require the help of a professional.
USING AN INDUCTION COOKTOP: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Get started with your induction cooktop by following a few straightforward steps. These instructions can help you cook with confidence, from powering on your stovetop to selecting the appropriate heat levels for your dish.
TOOLS
Induction cooktop, like this one from Maytag brand
Induction-compatible cookware (cast iron, enameled steel or induction-ready stainless steel)
Cookware lids (optional, depending on recipe)
Clean, dry cloth (for post-cooking wipe down)
1. POWER ON THE COOKTOP
Locate the Power button on your cooktop’s control panel and turn it on. A light or display indicator will signal the cooktop has been powered on and is ready to use.
Refer to your model’s owner’s manual for button location and startup indicators.
The cooktop may remain idle until cookware has been detected on a cooking zone.
2. PLACE INDUCTION-COMPATIBLE COOKWARE ON THE COOKTOP
Use cookware with a flat bottom made from ferromagnetic material, like stainless steel or cast iron. Nonmagnetic pans (aluminum, copper, glass) will not heat on induction cooktops.
Choose cookware that closely matches the size of the cooking zone.
Ensure the bottom of the cookware is clean and dry before placing it on the surface.
3. SELECT A COOKING ZONE AND ACTIVATE IT
Choose which surface area to use and activate it using the control panel. Some models require you to confirm your selection. A power level indicator or timer may appear. Check your user manual for details on your model.
- If no cookware has been detected, the zone may turn off after a short delay.
Promptly move to the next step after selecting a zone.
4. ADJUST HEAT SETTINGS
Use the controls to select your desired heat level or cooking function. Induction cooktops often include presets for boiling or simmering, as well as numeric power levels.
Food may cook faster than with gas or electric, so monitor closely.
Refer to your cooktop’s manual for any model-specific preset options.
5. TURN OFF THE COOKTOP AND CHECK THE SURFACE
When finished, deactivate the active cooking zone using the control panel. (Check your user manual for specific instructions for your model.) Then press the main Power button to shut down the cooktop.
- Check for the Hot Surface Indicator Light before touching or cleaning the area.
- Wait until the surface cools down before wiping clean with a soft cloth.
SHOP MAYTAG® INDUCTION COOKTOPS WITH SMARTBOIL
Take on mealtime with features on select Maytag® induction cooktop models like SmartBoil, which helps keep water boil-overs and splatters to a minimum by automatically monitoring the water temperature until a boil is reached. Select models also include the Fast-Cooling Induction Cooktop, which speeds up cleanup and allows you to quickly wipe away spills and splatters.
INDUCTION COOKING DOS AND DON’TS
Induction cooking offers powerful, direct heat and a smooth surface that's often easy to clean, but it helps to follow a few tips to help get the most out of your cooktop. From cookware compatibility to surface care, these simple dos and don’ts can help you cook more confidently and take care of your appliance.
INDUCTION COOKING DOS
Use compatible cookware. Choose cookware made from ferromagnetic materials like cast iron, enameled steel or stainless steel labeled as induction compatible. You can test with a magnet. If it sticks, it’s likely good to go.
Match pan size to cooking zone. Use pans that match the diameter of the heating element to help ensure proper heat transfer.
Use power levels and preset functions. Take advantage of features on your specific model. For example, on select Maytag® induction cooktops, you can use features like TempCook™ Induction Technology to automatically adjust heat to help keep temps steady.
- Adjust temperature gradually. Induction responds quickly. Start with a lower temperature than you might with gas or electric and increase as needed.
- Clean regularly with the right tools. Wait for the surface to cool completely. Use a soft cloth or sponge with nonabrasive cleaner to wipe up spills and help maintain performance.
INDUCTION COOKING DON’TS
Don’t slide or drop cookware. Lift cookware when moving it to avoid scratching the cooktop’s glass surface.
Don’t use abrasive materials. Avoid steel wool, scouring pads or harsh cleaners that could damage the surface.
Don’t prep food on the cooktop. Never chop, slice or prep ingredients directly on the surface. Even though it’s flat, it shouldn’t be used like a cutting board.
Don’t wait to prep once the cooktop is on. Induction heats quickly, so have your ingredients chopped and ready to go before turning on the burner to avoid overcooking or burning food.
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR INDUCTION COOKTOP
Induction cooktops combine the speed of modern cooking with features that help you stay in control. With rapid heat transfer and quick cool down times, they can help you handle busy kitchens and the mess that comes with cooking. Whether you’re trying to boil water fast or dialing back the heat to simmer a sauce, the responsiveness of induction can help make it easy to stay on task.
To get the most from your cooktop, consider these induction cooktop tips:
Take advantage of features on your specific model. Select Maytag® induction cooktops include features like No Guess Presets that set your cooktop to the exact results you want with convenient cooking modes like boil, saute, simmer and more.
Prep ingredients in advance to match the fast heat-up time.
Use compatible cookware and match pan size to the cooking zone.
Explore new cooking techniques, made possible with the responsive features of your induction cooktop.
EXPLORE MAYTAG® INDUCTION COOKTOPS
Shop Maytag® induction cooktops, available in 30- and 36-inch models, for features designed for performance and durability. Features on select models, like the Fast-Cooling Induction Cooktop, help speed up cleanup by allowing you to quickly wipe away spills and splatters. Other models include features like the XL Cooking Zone that has an extra large element designed to evenly heat your largest cookware, like oversized pans and griddles.
Maytag® cooktops
One cook space, full-meal power
Whether you’re working with a small space or just want more room for cooking, Maytag® cooktops offer power, durability and performance for every meal
