Choose induction if your saucepans and frying pans have a ferromagnetic base, a magnet sticks to the bottom and their diameters match the hob zones specified in the instructions. According to UFC-Que Choisir and Electrolux France, non-compatible cookware means either replacing selected items or choosing a ceramic hob or a combination hob if you need to keep them. Before buying, also check the cut-out dimensions, total power and connection requirements for the exact model.
You already own saucepans, frying pans or casserole dishes and want to identify which ones will remain usable. The magnet test, the condition of the base and the diameters supported by the new hob are the essential checks.
If you cook several dishes at the same time, compare the number of zones, their size, the power available simultaneously and whether a flexible zone would genuinely benefit your larger pans and dishes.
To replace a built-in hob without refitting the entire kitchen, check the cut-out dimensions, the model’s power rating, the available circuit and the instructions before choosing the technology.
Start by taking stock of your cookware, then compare the dimensions and installation requirements of a hob that suits the way you cook.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware compatibility | Test whether a magnet sticks to the base of each important pan or dish. Also check that the base is flat and that its diameter is supported by each hob zone. | I want to keep the saucepans and frying pans I use every day without discovering after installation that they are not detected. |
| Cooking zones | Compare 2, 3 or 4 zones with the dishes you prepare simultaneously. For a large stockpot, oval casserole dish or griddle, check the zone dimensions and how any potential flexible zone works. | I need to be able to use both my smaller dishes and my largest frying pans, rather than relying solely on the number of zones shown. |
| Built-in installation and connection | Note the built-in dimensions, maximum power, voltage and wiring diagram for the exact model. Check the ventilation requirements in its instructions. | My new hob must fit into the existing worktop and match my home’s circuit, without assuming that the old installation is suitable. |
| Cooking technology | Induction requires compatible cookware. According to Bosch, a ceramic hob accepts all types of cookware, while a combination hob combines induction and gas: check the requirements of both energy sources. | I am looking for the right balance between the cookware I want to keep, my preferred cooking method and the constraints of my kitchen. |
A dish without a ferromagnetic base will not heat up on induction. Even if it attracts a magnet, a warped base or a diameter outside the supported range can prevent satisfactory use.
Test the saucepans, frying pans and casserole dishes you use most, note their base diameters, then compare them with the instructions for the hob you are considering.
This check helps you avoid having to replace incompatible cookware unexpectedly.
Three or four zones do not guarantee that a large stockpot, oval casserole dish or grill will find a suitable cooking area. The size of the zones, any flexible zone and the power available simultaneously all affect real-world use.
Measure two or three dishes you use regularly and look for a flexible zone only if it genuinely matches their dimensions.
The same advertised width does not mean identical cut-out dimensions or total power. For example, Electrolux lists 7 200 W for the EIT60433CT, while Whirlpool lists 4 700 W for the ceramic AKT8090LX.
Before ordering, consult the technical specifications for the model you have chosen: cut-out, voltage, power, wiring diagram and the requirements in the instructions. Do not carry out unverified electrical modifications.
The worktop or electrical circuit may need adapting, depending on the hob and the property.
In France, the Ministry of the Economy states that there is a two-year period in which to request the application of the legal guarantee of conformity. A commercial warranty is optional and additional.
Before taking out an extended warranty, compare its duration, exclusions and cover for labour, call-out charges and replacement.
An extended warranty may partly cover rights you already have.
In France, Electrolux offers 60 cm built-in induction hobs with four zones, featuring functions such as PowerBoost, pan detection, safety features and power management, depending on the model.
Whirlpool offers both induction and ceramic hobs, with three- or four-zone models and flexible zones on selected models.
Bosch offers induction, ceramic, gas and combination hobs, allowing you to compare the technologies before selecting a specific model.
Joybuy induction hob options for a kitchen equipped with cookware featuring ferromagnetic bases, with three or four zones to suit different cooking habits.
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Worth considering if you often prepare several dishes and have cookware bases that attract a magnet.
Listed features: four 160 and 180 mm zones, Boost function, pan detection, timer, child lock and maximum power of 7 200 W.
Check the 565 × 495 mm cut-out, 220–240 V wired connection and the minimum cookware diameters supported, as stated in the instructions.
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This three-zone hob may suit you if three cooking zones are enough and the dual-ring zone accommodates your larger dishes.
Listed features: 7 200 W power, dual-ring right-hand zone, PowerBoost up to 3 600 W, touch controls, pause function and child lock.
Check the 560 × 490 mm cut-out, ventilation, dedicated circuit and the diameters supported by each zone in the instructions.
Hold a magnet against the base of each saucepan or frying pan: if it sticks, the cookware may be suitable for induction. Also check that the base is flat and that its diameter falls within the range supported by the zones on your chosen hob, as stated in the model’s instructions.
It may be suitable if you want to keep non-magnetic cookware. Bosch states that ceramic hobs accept all types of cooking cookware; however, the surface remains hot after use, according to the manufacturer.
For a new or completely renovated installation, Promotelec states that a dedicated 32 A circuit is provided for a cooker or electric hob under NF C 15-100. In an existing property, check the power, voltage, connection diagram, cut-out and the requirements in the instructions for the chosen model before making any changes.
The Ministry of the Economy states that there is a two-year period in which to request the application of the legal guarantee of conformity from a professional seller. Any commercial warranty may be added to this: read its terms before paying for an extended warranty.