Electric Range & Cooktop - Induction Cooktop FAQs

What is induction cooking?

A: Induction cooking uses a high-frequency induction coil below the cooktop's smooth surface that heats the cookware using a magnetic field. Induction cooking is the only cooking method that directly uses the cookware as a part of the cooking system.

 

Does induction cooking require specific pots and pans?

A: Yes. In order to create the magnetic field and heat the cookware, the bottom of the cookware must have some iron content. The best way to determine whether a pan will work is with a magnet. If the magnet sticks to the bottom, the cookware will work on an induction cooktop.

 

Does induction cooking create sounds or noises?

A: Yes. You can view our video about common sounds or noises heard with induction cooking:

 

 

Is induction cooking faster than other types of surface cooking?

A: Yes. Induction cooktops heat faster than gas or radiant cooktops. Compared to a radiant cooktop (12 minutes) or gas cooktop (13 3/4 minutes), induction cooktops offer the fastest time to boil. 1.5 gallons of water will boil in as little as 8 1/2 minutes.

 

How will chocolate or other delicate foods perform on an induction cooktop?

A: With precision heating controls, induction cooktops offer a low heat setting ideal for melting chocolate or preparing delicate sauces and dips.

 

What keeps the cooktop and surrounding surfaces from getting hot?

A: Induction cooktop technology only heats the area that comes in contact with the magnetic or iron-content cookware, leaving the un-used portion of the element unheated.

 

What is control lockout and how does it work?

A: The control lockout feature helps guard against unintended activation of the touch controls. You can lock the control panel to prevent accidental activation when cleaning the controls. To lock, simply touch and hold for five seconds; to unlock, repeat.

 

How does induction cooking differ from cooking with gas or radiant cooktops?

A: Induction differs from gas or radiant cooktops because there is no exposed coil, open flame or heated surface. If an element is turned on accidentally, no heat is generated unless cookware 5" or greater in diameter is placed on the element. When cookware is removed from the element the coil is de-energized and automatically turns off within 30 seconds.

 

Why does the cooktop flash "F"?

A: The induction cooktop will flash "F" when cookware has been removed from the surface, cookware is not present when the unit is turned on or cookware is not centered on the element.

 

Can an induction cooktop replace existing cooktops?

A: Yes. An induction cooktop fits into our common cutout shapes or sizes. This makes it easy to replace an existing appliance without changing countertop cutouts.

 

Can the induction cooktop be installed in combination with a wall oven?

A: Yes. Please consult your installation instructions for more information.

 

Is the cooktop easy to clean?

A: Yes. Since the unused portion of the cooktop remains relatively cool because it is unheated, most spillovers will not cook onto the surface. Plus, the electronic cooktop controls are glass touch controls instead of knobs for easy cleanability. We suggest the following cleaner - Cerama Bryte Touchup Cleaner (part # wx10x391) Purchase GE Appliance Parts online

 

What should be used to clean the induction cooktop?

A: Spills and splatters wipe off with a damp cloth or sponge.