Induction Hobs

FAQ's

Transform your kitchen and cooking experience with state-of-the-art induction hobs: The most energy-efficient, consistent, and safest cooking appliance on the market. Making use of the latest technology available, Smeg induction hobs come in a variety of sizes and models, including the latest venting hobs, which include an extractor fan within the hob surface, providing a seamless kitchen design while removing the need for an extractor fan.

Here at Smeg, we give you complete freedom when choosing your kitchen cooking appliance, by allowing you to buy your kitchen hobs and ovens separately: Meaning you can choose induction hobs and a steam oven, or gas hobs with a double electric oven, you decide.

Or if you're looking for an all-in-one solution, we have a range of range cookers. For example, our range cookers which combine an electric oven with induction hobs or electric ovens with mixed-fuel hobs.

What are induction hobs?

Induction hobs are a stovetop that uses magnetic technology to heat pans directly, rather than transferring heat more generally from a gas flame or ceramic heating plate. This means induction hobs offer a faster, safer, and more energy-efficient cooking method.

You can learn more about how induction hobs work in our dedicated buyers guide.

Are induction hobs better than gas?

The best type of hob for cooking depends on your cooking habits, your budget, and your desired level of contract. Induction and gas hobs have some pros and cons to consider:

Induction Hobs

Improved Energy Efficiency: Induction hobs are the most energy-efficient hob on the market, meaning you won’t be wasting excess energy heating the room like you will with gas hobs.
Enhanced Safety: Induction hobs are the safest, as they only heat the pan and not the hob, making them a great choice for families with young children.
Temperature Consistency: Induction hobs maintain heat once they reach the desired temperature, making food less likely to burn.
Easier Cleaning: As they are a completely smooth surface, induction hobs are the easiest hob to clean.
Specialist Cookware Required: Induction hobs do, however, require specialist induction-compatible cookware, that should be factored into the cost of your new cooking appliance.

Gas Hobs

Greater Control Over Cooking: Gas hobs provide the greatest degree of control over cooking. You can quickly adjust the heat or move the pan to heat different areas. This makes them popular for home chefs and professional kitchens, although more kitchens are moving to induction hobs as they have improved over the years.
Cheaper Operating Costs: Gas hobs are generally cheaper to run as gas is cheaper than electricity, even if induction hobs are more energy efficient. This may depend on the area you live in as prices do vary and fluctuate.

What’s the difference between a ceramic and an induction hob?

The main difference is in how the heat is generated and how it is transferred to the object being heated.

Ceramic hobs use coiled metal elements to heat the entire cooking zone. This heat is then transferred to the object touching it but also heats the surrounding area even if nothing is touching it.

Induction hobs, in contrast, use electromagnetic technology to only heat the area where the pan is in direct contact.

Is a gas hob or an induction hob cheaper to run?

While Induction hobs are the most energy-efficient hob available, the per-unit cost of electricity can be higher than that of gas. This may differ depending on the area you live in and the prices of gas and electricity.

However, induction hobs transfer around 85-90% of their energy directly to the cookware, whereas gas hobs are only about 40-50% efficient due to heat loss. This means that while gas is often cheaper per unit, you may use more of it to achieve the same cooking results.

Additionally, induction hobs tend to cook food faster and more precisely, reducing overall energy consumption. If you use your hob frequently, the efficiency of an induction hob could offset the higher electricity cost, making it a competitive or even cheaper option in the long run.

Do induction hobs need special pans?

Yes, induction hobs require special pans that are magnetic. Induction pans will have an induction-compliant symbol on the bottom of the pan or on the packaging, to let you know it will work with an induction hob.

Induction pans come in a range of sizes and materials, like cast iron, aluminium, copper, and stainless steel, meaning you won’t be restricted in the kinds of pans you can use.

For more information, check out our induction hob pots & pans guide.

Do induction hobs scratch?

Just as with any product, scratches can occur if you’re rough with the hob or don’t take care of it. As a result, you may like to consider a hob protector for when it’s not in use.

Similarly, it’s important to avoid abrasive chemicals and always use non-scratch cleaning clothes or non-scratch sponges for cleaning.

How do I clean an induction hob?

Induction hobs have a smooth glass surface that requires careful cleaning to maintain their performance and longevity. Below is a general guide for cleaning your induction hob:

Wipe away any loose food or spills using a soft cloth
Scrub gently using hot soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge of cloth. Avoid harsh scrubbing pads that may scratch the surface.
Wipe clean using a damp cloth to remove any residue or spilt water from the glass surface, as this will interfere with the operation of the hob
Buff the surface with a dry microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.

Regular cleaning helps maintain the efficiency and appearance of your induction hob. Avoid using abrasive materials or excessive water, as this could damage the glass surface.

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Induction Hobs

FAQ's

What are induction hobs?

Are induction hobs better than gas?

What’s the difference between a ceramic and an induction hob?

Is a gas hob or an induction hob cheaper to run?

Do induction hobs need special pans?

Are induction hobs energy efficient?

Do induction hobs scratch?

How do I clean an induction hob?

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