Change is hard, I get it, but hear me out – induction cooking is better for the environment than gas or electric.

What’s the difference?

With a conventional cooktop, heat is conducted and radiated to what you are cooking via a burner or flame. On an induction cooktop, a copper coil is located beneath each cooking zone. The copper coil becomes a kind of magnet when the electricity is turned on, directly heating the cookware. Induction heat is directed precisely where it is needed, which adapts automatically to the shape of your cookware. The cookware generates its own heat so the moment you take it off the burner, the heat ceases. In this manner, you can cook your favorite dish without adding extra heat like you would with a standard gas or electric cooktop. And, on top of that, shortly after you finish cooking, you can begin cleaning since the surface is cooler. You can use an induction cooktop with any pot or pan that has a flat bottom that a magnet can adhere to so yes, you may need to invest in some new kitchenware but maybe not – we’ll discuss that in a moment. First here are some benefits to induction cooking:

• Induction cooktops offer excellent temperature control. 
• The cooktop is more energy-efficient than gas and electric ones because it can maintain the perfect temperature for melting, boiling, or simmering. 
• It is also simple to clean.
• They heat up quickly- it’s amazing how quickly a pot of water rises to a boil.
• Numerous types are compatible with smart homes.
• They provide Improved indoor air quality
• Because there is no open heating element, there is a reduced risk of burns

Induction Cooking Cookware

So, back to the question of do you have to buy specialized pots and pans. Iron or iron-based materials, like steel, are the only magnetic materials that can be used to make cookware that works with an induction cooktop. There must be enough iron in your pots and pans for induction heating to operate since it does so by stimulating the iron atoms in the cookware. To see if your existing pots and and pans can be used on an induction surface try the magnet test. If the magnet sticks – you’re good. If not – off to the store for some conscious consumerism.

Although passing the magnet test is a simple way to determine if your cookware is suitable for induction, you might be concerned about causing damage to your cooktop or pots and pans. Here are the materials most suitable for induction cooking:

Stainless Steel: Although stainless steel cookware is an excellent option for induction cooking because it is stain-resistant and easy to clean, the results of cooking with it can occasionally be uneven. You should do the magnet test to be certain because not all stainless steel is magnetic.
Cast Iron: Cast iron’s slow heat conductivity and excellent heat retention allow for even cooking. To keep your stove from getting damaged, stay away from cast iron cookware with a rough surface.
Porcelain Enamel: As long as the cookware’s primary component is magnetic metal, this durable and lasting material can be used on an induction cooktop. The base material will determine the heating qualities of this cookware, which is composed of metal coated with porcelain enamel. Make sure they are induction-compatible by doing the magnet test.

Your current cookware is perhaps the best induction cookware! But if you need to purchase new cookware, keep the following in mind:

• Instead of heating the cooktop surface, induction heats the pot. Select broad, level bottoms so that the heat can be dispersed freely. You can use a ruler to measure around the cookware’s bottom to check for flatness.
• It’s usual for there to be some vibration during induction cooking. So choose heavier lids that sit better at higher power and tend to be quieter.
• Also, sturdy, well-attached handles help control vibration and lower the possibility of noise at increased power.
• Of course, using premium heavy gauge cookware on the induction cooking zones will lead to the finest cooking results. The surfaces of the latest models are comprised of ceramic glass, which is durable and not prone to cracking. 

So, you want to make the switch but you don’t want to add to the waste chain? Good news – most stoves or old cooktops contain metal, glass, and plastic that can be recycled. If you order from a big box store like Best Buy or Lowes, most offer recycling programs and will haul out the old appliance – sometimes free and sometimes for a fee – it just depends on the company. You can recycle most pots and pans – although you should check with your local recycling center to see what they accept. You can also check with a local metal recycler – the list of items they accept is very long. Earth911 is an excellent source for finding metal recyclers.

If you rent and can’t readily replace appliances – you can get countertop induction cookers and just not use the traditional one in the house. Amazon has quite a lot to choose from. We may cover that in a future post.

Choosing induction cooking is another great way to green up your life!