Did you know that the Chappaqua Library has a portable induction cooktop kit so you can try it out at home?
But why induction? What is all the fuss about?
What is wrong with gas stoves?
Gas stoves use fossil fuels. In addition to contributing to greenhouse gases, air and water pollution, fossil fuels are non-renewable. Natural gas is mostly methane and is a potent greenhouse gas. Finally, gas stoves leak methane equivalent to 500,000 gas powered cars annually according to a Stanford University study and 75% of these emissions occur while the stove is off.
Gas stoves affect the air quality in your home. While cooking, they emit dangerous levels of nitrous oxides (contributing to respiratory diseases such as asthma), carbon monoxide and formaldehyde. Sometimes exceeding EPA guidelines for dangerous levels of nitrous oxides within minutes of use. Methane is leaking into the living quarters.
What is great about induction?
An induction cooktop heats by transferring currents from an electromagnetic field located directly below the cookware. It “induces” the molecules to jiggle.
It is powerful and quick. In thermal conduction an element transfers from a heat source to a pan through the air. In induction cooking it heats the cookware directly without the need for a flame or burner. Induction heats 50% faster than thermal cooktops.
It is highly responsive to temperature adjustments and easy to make incremental adjustments.
Cleanup is a breeze. There are no burners or coils where the food can get stuck. Don’t have to wait until it is cooled down to clean because it doesn’t get as hot. Wouldn’t want to hold your hand on it right after you cooked but within a few minutes it will have cooled enough.
They are safe. Unlike gas stoves they can’t accidentally be turned on and burns are less likely.
Kitchen air temperature doesn’t get as hot while cooking as there is no open flame. Less heat requires less ventilation.
Do I have to get new pots and pans?
Not necessarily. Induction-compatible pans are magnetic. Our kit includes a magnet so you can check your existing pans. More pans work with induction than don’t work with induction. Pan must be flat on the bottom.
How can I research induction cooktops?
Cooktop manufacturers vary in quality so do your research ahead of time. Chappaqua Library patrons can access induction cooktop reviews online using both Consumer Reports and Wirecutter from The New York Times.
Cost is higher, but prices are coming down
Initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act provide rebates for purchasing or installing high-efficiency home appliances. You may be eligible for a rebate of up to $840 for an Energy Star-approved induction cooktop.
Chappaqua Library patrons interested in learning more about pricing can search for the article "Best Induction Cooktops of 2024" accessible through our digital subscription to Consumer Reports.
One final tip: The size of the pan should match the size of the burner
That is why home induction cooktops have different sized burners. If the pan is too small the burner might not recognize the pan and might turn off. If too big it will only cook on the part touching the burner, part on the outside won’t cook at all.
Want to learn more?
Come into the library and check out our Induction Cooktop Try It Kit!
Or watch this video series from professional chefs on why they cook with induction.
Amy Berger
Librarian, Library of Things Coordinator