Induction hobs are quite in demand as 1 in every 5 homes across the UK has installed it. But, only a specific type of cookware is induction compatible. Wondering can you use a regular pan on the induction plate? And, What Happens if You Use a Normal Pan on an Induction Hob?
Well, here is your quick answer.
The induction cooktop transfers direct heat to the pan rather than heating the surface using a magnetic field. So, if you place a normal pan on an induction hob, it will not turn on. No magnetic field will be created with regular pots and pans. So, therefore no heat will be produced to start the cooking process.
Confused about what is meant by normal pans? What type of cookware is induction compatible with? And how can I know my pan is induction compatible? Well, we got you covered with detailed information.
This article will provide detailed information on what happens if you use a normal pan on an induction hob? Best induction cookware, And we will also let you know how to trick an induction hob? Well, for better understanding, let’s have a quickie on how induction hobs work?
How Do Induction Cooktops Work?
Induction cooktops have a copper coil installed under the surface. Magnetic conduction is used for induction cooking. The current is converted to the “alternating current.”
The heat created by a magnetic field is directly transferred to the pan rather than first heating up the surface.
What Happens If You Use A Normal Pan On An Induction Hob? – Detailed Answer
The rule of thumb to remember here is that magnetic conduction is used for induction cooking. So, only ferrous metal cookware works well on it.
Nothing will happen if you place a regular pan on the hob ring. Due to the absence of ferrous metal, the circuit won’t complete
When the circuit for alternating current remains incomplete, the hob rings won’t turn on.
What Is Meant By Normal Pans?
So far, you may have noticed that I am constantly stating that “normal pans” are suitable for induction cooking. But what is meant by it?
Everyday kitchen cookware, including plastic and aluminium non-stick pots, does not work for induction hobs.
Induction Cookware
Induction-compatible cookware is an essential requirement for such cooktops. Nowadays, most compatible cookware has an induction symbol “four-loop of wire” printed on them.
Only ferrous metal pans are suitable to use on such plates. Still confused, have a look at our list of suitable cookware types.
What Pans Can You Use On An Induction Hob?
Well, here is your list of best induction cookware:
- Pans and pots made of 100% cast iron.
- Magnetic stainless steel cookware.
- Non-Stick pans with magnetic base.
Remember, glass, pyrex, aluminium and copper cookware are not induction compatible.
How To Tell If A Pan Is Induction Compatible?
The most general way to determine the compatibility is by looking for the “induction symbol” on the back side of the cookware.
The other way to find out is by testing it with a kitchen magnet. Any pot that sticks to a magnet is suitable to use with an induction hob.
Well, if you think that you may need to buy professional induction pans now. Save yourself from spending your hard-earned money, Because we have a solution to your problem.
Induction Converter Plate
Manufacturers are now making aluminium pots with a magnetic base to make them induction compatible. Well, this provides a solution to using non-induction cookware on such cooktops.
How Can You Trick An Induction Hob?
Yes, it is possible to trick induction cooktops by using converter discs. You can place a 100% cast iron converter disc beneath the ceramic pot.
The iron disc will complete the alternative current circuit and then transfer the heat to the pot on it.
Induction Converter Discs – Make Normal Pan Induction Compatible
The best perk of an induction converter disc is that you can use everyday ceramics on any type of hob. With it, you don’t have to worry about buying separate pots.
Currently, two leading brands have introduced induction converter plates.
- ProCook Induction Converter Plate – 19cm
With only 447g weight, it is a medium-size converter plate. It is made of stainless steel.
All you need to do is place the diffusing disc on the cooking zone and complete the magnetic cycle. Then you can put any pot on it. The heat will transfer to any type of pan you are using.
- VonShef Induction Diffuser – Medium And Large Sized Disc
VonShef went a step ahead to solve the compatibility problem. They introduce 19cm and large 23 cm induction converter plates for special coffee brewers.
The working mechanism is the same. All you need to do is place it underneath the normal pan and keep on cooking amazing dishes.
Can You Use Stainless Steel Pans On An Induction Hob?
No, you cannot use stainless steel pans on induction cooktops.
To make stainless steel compatible, either you need a magnetic coating on the base or a converter plate.
Does Aluminium Work On Induction Hobs?
Aluminium cookware is not induction compatible. It can damage the glass or ceramic surface of the cooktop. You cannot use aluminium pans without a diffuser or converter.
How To Use Copper Pans On An Induction Cooktop?
Copper metal is not suitable for induction cooktops. To use a copper pot, either you need to ferromagnetic it with iron or stainless steel. Or, you can use an induction converter plate.
Wrapping It Up!
In a nutshell, normal pots and pans don’t work on an induction hob. This includes glass, ceramic, plastic, pyrex and aluminium cookware.
The best thing is you can make them compatible by using an induction converter plate. If you own an induction cooktop and are planning to buy new cookware, we advise testing our magnetic trick. So, you can keep on cooking unique dishes and enjoying them.
