6 INDUCTION COOKTOP & COOKING BENEFITS
An induction cooktop uses electromagnetic fields to heat compatible cookware directly—so the pot or pan itself becomes the heat source. Induction offers precise, responsive temperature control, fast heat-up and cook times, and easy cleanup because the surrounding glass stays cooler. And since heat is produced inside the cookware rather than transferred from a burner through the surface, it can also help reduce heat loss while you cook. Read on to learn more about how induction works, its pros and cons and what to consider for your kitchen.
WHAT IS INDUCTION COOKING?
Induction cooking uses electromagnetism to heat pots and pans directly, turning them into their own heat source. Induction cooktops respond quickly, so water typically boils fast and temperatures adjust in a flash, helping to make cooking speedy and precise.
INDUCTION COOKTOP BENEFITS
Induction cooktops offer many convenient features to help you get dinner on the table. Here’s a deeper look at some standout features.
1. PRECISE TEMPERATURE CONTROL AND CONSISTENT RESULTS
Induction cooktops rapidly heat the base of your pan and respond quickly to adjustments, so you can often shift from a rolling boil to a gentle simmer in less time.
Some models also automate key steps, allowing you to focus on the rest of your recipe. On select Maytag® induction cooktops, Temp Cook™ Induction Technology automatically adjusts heat to help keep temps steady, so your pancakes and grilled cheeses come out consistently—no matter how many you make.
2. RAPID HEATING
Because induction transfers energy straight to your pan, little to no heat or energy is lost between the cooking surface and your food. The result: You can boil water and sear food quickly.
3. COOLER SURFACE
With induction, heat is created inside the pan rather than on the surface of the cooktop itself. As a result, the area around your cookware tends to remain cooler and cools down quickly after cooking—which may cause less worry, in case of accidental contact during cleanup.
4. SIMPLE CLEANUP
One of the perks of induction is how easy it can be to keep the surface clean. Because the cooktop itself doesn’t generate heat, spills, splatters and boil-overs are often less likely to bake on. Most messes wipe away quickly after cooking, though it’s still best to let any residual heat from your cookware dissipate before cleaning.
5. UNIQUE FEATURES AND SETTINGS
Today’s induction cooktops often come with thoughtful features, such as:
Rapid Boil Features: Some cooktops include rapid boil features that help heat water quickly, cutting down on overall cooking time. For example, the Power Boost1 on certain Maytag® cooktops, such as this model, brings water to a boil two times faster than electric cooktops.
Convenient presets: Modern cooktops may offer built-in presets to help deliver consistent results with less guesswork. For instance, Maytag® No Guess Presets found on models like this one help you get dinner done right the first time. Set your cooktop to the exact results you want with convenient cooking modes like boil, sauté, simmer and more.
Expanded heating zones: Larger cooking zones are designed to evenly heat oversized pans and griddles, making them ideal for big-batch cooking. Select Maytag® induction cooktops feature an XL Cooking Zone, with an extra large element designed to evenly heat your largest cookware, like oversized pans and griddles.
6. OPTIMIZED ENERGY USE
According to ENERGY STAR®, induction cooktops can be up to three times more energy-efficient than gas and 5-10% more efficient than conventional electric cooktops. Because the pot itself becomes the heat source, less warmth spills into the room—which may lighten the load on your HVAC. Learn more about ENERGY STAR® certified appliances and Energy Guide labels.
SHOP MAYTAG® INDUCTION COOKTOPS
Maytag® induction cooktops are designed with dependable, durable features and can help mealtime go smoothly. Some models come with Temp Cook™ Induction Technology that allows you to set a temperature and lock it in. Temp Cook™ Induction Technology automatically adjusts heat to help keep temps steady, so your pancakes and grilled cheeses come out consistently—no matter how many you make. Other Maytag® models offer SmartBoil, which helps keep water boil-overs and splatters to a minimum. The SmartBoil preset automatically monitors the water temperature until a boil is reached so dinner gets done right the first time.
ARE THERE DOWNSIDES TO INDUCTION COOKING?
Induction has a few trade-offs to weigh. Here’s a closer look at the potential downsides of induction cooking.
New cookware may be needed. Cookware for induction needs a magnetic base. Tip: If a magnet sticks to a pot or pan, it’ll work on an induction cooktop. Cast iron and many stainless steel pots, pans and Dutch ovens are usually ready to use as-is. By contrast, copper, aluminum, glass and ceramic pieces generally aren’t compatible with induction cooktops.
There may be a learning curve. Induction can take a little getting used to—since pans heat so quickly, dishes may finish sooner than expected. Keep a close eye on doneness to help prevent overcooking.
Maytag® kitchen ranges
POWERFUL COOKING FEATURES THAT WORK, MEAL AFTER MEAL
Maytag® ranges offer powerful cooking features and next-level cleanability to help make mealtime less of a chore
IS INDUCTION COOKING BETTER?
Induction cooking may be better for you, depending on your cooking style and personal preferences. Induction is often called “the best of both worlds” because it offers a smooth, easy-to-wipe glass surface like an electric radiant top, while delivering the quick, responsive control you expect from gas.
If you already have compatible cookware, an induction cooktop may be a worthwhile time and energy upgrade for your kitchen.
EXPLORE MAYTAG® COOKTOPS
Whether you choose gas, electric or induction, Maytag® cooktops deliver power, control and dependability. On some Maytag® gas models, Front Controls keep your cooktop knobs close at hand so you can manage your meals without breaking a sweat. And on some electric options—like these from Maytag brand—the 10/6-inch Dual-Choice™ Element gives you the ability to cook with the pan you want and the power you need. Control a slow, even sauté and then intensify the heat for searing.
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