For most of kitchen appliance history, gas stovetops have ranked supreme. However, electric and induction cooktops are becoming increasingly popular for today’s homeowners. Though gas was the tried and true, and most reliable method for many years, these other types are quickly catching up in popularity, usefulness, and reliability.

But do you know which is the best type for you and your kitchen? Let’s begin by reviewing the pros and cons of both electric and induction cooktops, and then you can make the best-informed decision that is right for you!

Electric Cooktops

As their name suggests, electric cooktops are powered by an electrical current that heats a metal coil under a glass or ceramic surface on your stove. The heat is transferred to the cooking vessel that is being heated, which cooks the food. The electric cooktop will remain hot after removing the cooking vessel, so be aware of that residual heat.

The benefits of using an electric cooktop are primarily the ease of use and reliability of the products. They are usually the cooktop chosen by first-time homebuyers, as the use of such is fairly straightforward and simple to use and maintain. Because they are so common, there are a wide variety of price ranges that can fit into many different budget ranges.

Their installation is usually fairly simple, as well. Also, that residual heat can be seen as a benefit, as it can keep your food warm after cooking. Lastly, electric cooktops can control the heat fairly well that can keep electrical costs down for homeowners looking to save a buck or two!

There are some setbacks to using electrical cooktops, however. The residual heat that can be good to keep your food warm can also be a hazard. Be sure to supervise children when using the stove, as they can burn themselves on the cooktop long after the cooking has stopped.

Also, these stovetops may take longer to get to the proper temperature than gas or induction stovetops. Last, because the metal coil heats a specific surface area, the heating may be uneven if you use a pot or vessel that differs in size from the heated surface.

Induction Cooktops

Induction cooktops, though they also use electrical currents, heat pots directly using a magnetic current versus heating a surface then the pot being used. Though they may cost a little more, the induction cooktops skip the heating step of having to heat a burner and saves the owner on time without sacrificing precision.

The benefits of using induction cooktops are plentiful. The stovetop area does not get hot to the touch, so they are usually deemed safer than electric cooktops. In that same manner, they can be cleaned quickly and more efficiently, because you are not having to wait for the surface to cool. This also can save you on cooling costs. Cook times are also significantly faster, which can help you be more efficient in the kitchen!

On the other hand, induction cooktops are known to be more expensive than electric cooktops, which may place them out of budget range for some homeowners. Also, there is the added expense of having to use specific cookware, such as cast iron or stainless steel, for these types of cooktops. Lastly, because the induction stovetop uses an electromagnetic field, some other kitchen appliances can be inadvertently affected by such, so that is also something to keep in mind.

Overall, these two cooktops are great options for homeowners looking to upgrade from gas stoves. Their efficiency and individual technologically-advanced features can really step your cooking game up to the next level!

If you are still stuck between these two cooktops and are looking for a kitchen appliance store right here in Lafayette, LA, stop by Facets of Lafayette today! Our wide selection of products and fully knowledgeable staff can help you make the best and wisest decision for your home and your wallet!