Induction Cooking
The City is committed to supporting residents' transition away from fossil fuel-burning appliances to electric alternatives in simple and cost-effective ways. Electric induction ranges present a great option for kitchen electrification due to their excellent cooking quality, safety benefits, and their relative price parity with gas ranges.
How Induction Works
An Induction cooktop is an electric appliance that will directly heat a pot or pan using magnetic induction. Electrical current passes through magnetic coils in the cooktop, which creates a magnetic field that moves the molecules in the pot or pan, causing it to heat up. The direct heating of the cookware is more energy-efficient than gas or electric resistance options and reduces burn risks as there is no open flame or exposed heating element.
Induction stoves are also highly valued as a cooking tool. Induction stoves boil water significantly faster than other electric or gas options and are precise and responsive to temperature changes. In 2020, according to Consumer Reports, five of the top ten stoves for sale were induction. Many Chefs find the ease of use, precision, and quick cleanup ideal for cooking.
Induction Cookware
Induction stoves require pots and pans that contain iron for cooking. If a magnet sticks to the bottom of the cookware, it’s good for induction! If you are unable to perform that test, just look for the phrase “suitable for induction” on the packaging.
Cost of Induction
Induction stoves may be surprisingly cost-effective. They are an often-overlooked appliance, as consumers are quick to switch from the slow cooking and inefficient electric resistance stoves to a gas stove without the knowledge of an electric alternative. The cost of induction stoves has dropped significantly in recent years as the technology has advanced. They range in price from ~$500 - $2500, with high-end induction stoves costing significantly less than high-end gas alternatives.
Along with the cost of the appliance, there also needs to be a dedicated 240V electrical outlet for the unit. If switching from an electric resistance stove, you likely won’t need any upgrade. If no plug is available, an electrical contractor would need to install one, and this installation averages around $300 or more depending on the existing electrical wirings.
Portable induction cooktops and other plug-in cooking appliances offer an alternative to range replacement and are a great option for renters who can’t replace their kitchen appliances or don't have a 240V electrical outlet in the kitchen. Countertop induction “hobs” can be purchased for less than $100 and offer all the benefits of cooking with induction without the trouble of appliance replacement or electric work.
