Induction cooking is quickly becoming one of the biggest trends for kitchens across the nation, and it’s easy to understand why. An induction range uses electricity, but it’s far more efficient than a gas or traditional electric stovetop. Gas and electric ranges produce heat, which is transferred to a pan, which then transfers the heat to the food. An induction range, however, uses electromagnetic currents to heat the pan directly. There is no loss of heat energy, and you can control your temperature more precisely.
This year, the City of Santa Rosa has announced they will be banning the use of natural gas on all new houses. For those who enjoy cooking with gas, induction cooking offers a safer alternative. There are no concerns about gas lines or carbon monoxide, and the element is only warm when it’s on, and there is a pan on it. This is because the heat isn’t generated from the element itself – it’s being transferred from the heat of the pan.
Induction Cooking Explained
Induction cooking uses magnetic induction to heat the cookware directly. Magnetic induction works by passing an electric current through a solid copper wire underneath the cooking surface. This creates a magnetic current in the pan to create heat. For magnetic induction to work, however, you must use cookware that’s made from a magnetic metal, such as cast iron.
Since the cookware itself is generating the heat, cooking with an induction range is very efficient. You can bring water to a boil in 50% less time than you’d be able to with a gas or electric stove. Since temperatures can be controlled more accurately, there’s less likelihood of burnt or overcooked food. Another great thing about induction ranges is that they are incredibly easy to clean. The cooking surface is flat, and since it stays cool once your cookware is removed, you can clean it immediately after cooking. Some models also come with an auto-sizing feature that detects the size of the pan you’re using and adjusts the area of the electromagnetic current. If you’d like to learn more about induction ranges, call or visit Redwood Cabinet Design in downtown Santa Rosa. We have several models of induction ranges available, including models from Electrolux, Frigidaire, Bosch, Thermador, and Jenn Air. We would be happy to give you more information about induction cooking and answer any questions you have. Stop by or give us a call at 707-971-9423