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What is an induction cooktop?
Induction cooktops use an electromagnetic field to heat food. When the cooktop is turned on, an electric current passes through a coil of metal, creating a magnetic field. This magnetic field then penetrates the metal of a cooking pan, inducing a current in the pan, quickly heating it up. Because the pan is changing temperature, induction cooktops are far more responsive than other electric cooktops.
Compatible pots and pans
Pots and pans for induction cooktops should have ferrous metal, such as iron, cast iron, enameled iron, and certain stainless-steel alloys, at least at the contact point with the stove. Some cookware manufacturers offer aluminium or copper pans with a magnetized base for induction cooktops.
Modern cookware will often state if it is suitable for use with induction cooktops by containing a label such as ‘Induction Ready’ somewhere on the pan. One simple way to check your pans is to place a fridge magnet onto the base of the pan. If it does not stick, then it may not work with induction.
Curved woks designed for gas cooktops may not work very well with an induction cooktop. Some induction cooktops contain a sunken wok zone. If not, you may be better off purchasing a flat bottom wok suitable for induction cooking.
Wattage
The cooking zones on induction cooktops can transfer large amounts of power, quickly heating cookware. The wattage on these products varies – individual cooking zones can typically reach between 1600W and 3000W.
Some induction cooktops may also have a higher power mode, often called boost mode. The boost mode on an induction cooktop is a feature that increases the power output of one cooking zone by diverting power from an adjacent zone. By doing this, some cooking zones can deliver over 4000W of power. This feature can heat up a pan quickly, boil water much faster and create a hotter surface for faster searing of food. However, it usually is not intended to be used for long stretches of time due to the very high temperature cookware can reach.
The boost mode works by temporarily exceeding the standard rated power of the induction cooker. When using the boost mode, power is diverted from other elements, which may cause a slight dimming or pulsating of the other cookers.
Higher wattage and higher amperage circuits
Due to the high wattages, most good quality induction cooktops will require more than 15 amps of current, which is above that commonly found in standard residential circuits. While you may have existing circuits for the ignition of your gas burner and oven, an induction cooktop will need to be hard wired by an electrician. The induction cooktop will also likely need a new dedicated circuit back to the switchboard when the demand of the cooktop is more than what your existing circuits are able to supply.
Sizing an induction cooktop for your bench
In Australia, standard cooktop sizes are 30cm, 60cm, and 90cm. The most common square shaped cooktop is 60cm. This size refers to the total edge to edge width of the cooktop with most cooktops typically around 50cm to 52cm deep. The depth of a cooktop refers to the total edge to edge depth. Most cooktops are between 50cm to 53cm to fit a standard bench. If you have a more compact benchtop, you will need to find a product with less depth. You can look at and compare the dimensions of approved cooktops by checking the approved product list.
The benchtop that the cooktop sits in will have a cut-out that is smaller than these edge-to-edge dimensions. Most induction cooktops will be designed to fit within typical in-bench cutouts. It is important that you measure the size of your bench cut-out and then select a product that will fit within the size. If unsure, you can check product manuals for induction cooktops to find the required clearances.
Arranging installation
To decommission and cap an existing gas cooktop, you will require a licenced gasfitter.
When installing an induction cooktop, it’s important to hire a licensed electrician due to the high-power requirements. You should measure your area and know where you want to place the cooktop.
Some retailers or accredited providers may be able to assist you with arranging the removal of your old cooktop and installation of the new cooktop. We recommend you seek out multiple quotes before choosing you next induction cooktop.
Warranty considerations
Two years is a common warranty period and is the minimum warranty required for all products eligible for incentives. However, there are longer warranties available which can provide more confidence in the longevity of the induction cooktop. When considering warranty options for your induction cooktop, look for coverage that includes damage or marks reported within a certain timeframe after purchase. Also consider whether the warranty covers major failures and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage.
Despite the warranty period, there are also consumer guarantees that must be met within Australia that may extend beyond the warranty period available. Consider whether a warranty gives you additional protection that you are not already entitled to under Australian consumer law.
Caring for an induction cooktop
To maintain an induction cooktop, avoid dropping heavy items or chopping food on the cooktop surface as it can crack the glass/ceramic material. Clean up spills and stains as soon as possible using a soft cloth and mild detergent. Don’t drag pots or pans across the cooking zones as it can scratch the surface.
Ventilation
While induction cooktops do not produce harmful particulates like burning gas, it is important to have an efficient weather sealed extraction fan/rangehood which vents moisture and other cooking particulates outside. If you do not, it may be worth considering purchasing one for the electrician to install while they are at your house.
However, if you are using an open-flued gas heater, it is strongly recommended that you do not operate your rangehood or other extraction fans (i.e. bathroom fans). When there is a lack of ventilation, this can cause a negative pressure environment where carbon dioxide or other poisonous gasses can be drawn out of your flue and into living areas.
Some modern induction cooktops have extraction fans built into the cooktop surface, often referred to as downdraft extraction/ventilation. These cooktops may require additional space, a new cut through the back of the cabinetry and wall and may come with additional cleaning and maintenance considerations. Some other modern induction cooktops can work directly with a matching rangehood from the same brand.
Do I need 3-phase power for an induction cooktop?
It is unlikely that you will need a 3-phase connection to your house for an induction cooktop. A typical household single phase connection is adequate for most all-electric households. If you have a large house with a high number of high-draw appliances, or are considering the addition of a very large solar PV system or fast EV home charger, you may want to consider a 3-phase connection. If you have an older house, you may need to upgrade the existing connection and wiring but should still be able to get a suitable amperage connection on single phase. We recommend talking to qualified electricians to find a solution that works best for your household.
Installation
Induction cooktops typically need to be hardwired to household electricity to be operational. You will need an electrician to do this. An induction cooktop may need a new dedicated circuit to be installed, or even a switchboard upgrade if no new circuits can be added. It is strongly recommended you check with a qualified electrician prior to purchasing an induction cooktop to understand the costs and feasibility of installation.
Some induction cooktops can be plugged into a standard power socket. However, you should work with an electrician to check what other appliances are drawing power to that socket’s circuit. If the addition of an induction cooktops results in too much power being drawn, the circuit may trip.
There may be other considerations for installing a cooktop depending on your individual circumstances, such as whether alterations need to be made to the bench where a cooktop is being installed. Again, we strongly recommend speaking to a qualified tradesperson to check what will suit your home and whether there any hazards that need to be considered (i.e. engineered stone benchtops).
How much does an induction cooktop cost?
Induction cooktops are available at a wide range of price points, from around $600 to over $6000. More expensive cooking products tend to have more cooking areas and features. However, every product is unique, so please shop around to find the most suitable induction cooktop for your home.
Many approved induction cooktops need to be hardwired by an electrician. You’ll likely need a new dedicated circuit to be installed, and possibly even a switchboard upgrade. Typically, the cost of installing a hardwired cooktop to a dedicated circuit would be between $600 and $1200, and capping the gas line would be between $250 and $500. Complex installations may cost more. Speak with a qualified electrician to understand the costs and feasibility of installation.
Operation
Please read the owner’s manual before operating your induction cooktop. Each model is different, so even if you have used an induction cooktop before please take the time to familiarise yourself with your new appliance.
If you have a pacemaker or other medical implant, we strongly recommend you speak to a doctor before operating your cooktop. There is a small risk that the electromagnetic field generated by the cooktop may interfere with certain devices. Your doctor is the best person to speak to in order to understand how to operate your induction cooktop safely.
Other considerations when purchasing an induction cooktop
Other factors to consider when buying an induction cooktop include ease of controls, cooking zone layout, style, type of cookware you’ll use on the cooktop, number and location of the cooktop’s cooking zones, overall dimensions and design, power/temperature settings, and any additional features that may be useful.
Financial incentives for purchasing an induction cooktop
The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program offers incentives for households with gas cooktops to purchase induction cooktops. Only products meeting VEU program requirements can be installed under this program. You will need to select an approved product and reach out to an accredited provider to organise the incentive. You can find more information on the VEU Induction Cooktops webpage.
Page last updated: 25/10/24