Households looking to keep their cookware
You’re replacing your hob and want to find out which saucepans and frying pans you can still use on induction before placing your order. Check each item of cookware you actually use.
Who is this option for?
People who cook several dishes at once
You need cooking zones that suit the pans you use at the same time. The number of zones matters, but their size and whether you can use a flexible zone could also influence your choice.
Households replacing a built-in hob
Compare the worktop cut-out, ventilation and existing electrical connection with the instructions for the model you’re considering. The visible width of your old hob alone isn’t enough to tell you whether a new one will fit.
What should you check before choosing?
To choose between induction, a ceramic hob with radiant zones and a mixed hob, start with the pans you want to keep. Then check that your preferred cooking setup can be installed in your home.
Induction hob
Consider this if: your everyday cookware is compatible, or you’re happy to replace any items that aren’t.
Bear in mind: a pan without a compatible ferromagnetic base won’t heat up on an induction zone.
Ceramic hob with radiant zones
Consider this if: you don’t want the magnetic compatibility of your cookware to dictate your choice of hob.
Bear in mind: although induction hobs also have a ceramic glass surface, radiant zones work differently.
Mixed induction and gas hob
Consider this if: you want to use induction but keep another cooking method for certain pans.
Bear in mind: the gas section has its own supply and installation requirements, which you’ll need to check before choosing this option.
| Criterion | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware compatibility | Check the base and the manufacturer’s guidance for the saucepans and frying pans you use most. | I want to keep my usual pans without finding out after buying that some of them won’t heat up on induction. Around 36 % of consumers say keeping their cookware is their main concern. |
| Number and size of zones | Compare the size of the zones, including flexible ones, with the pans you use at the same time. | When I’m cooking several dishes, I need enough room for my pans, especially the larger ones. For around 29 % of consumers, how well the zones suit their cooking habits comes ahead of other criteria. |
| Fitting and connection | Compare the model’s instructions with the cut-out, ventilation clearances and electrical specifications in your home. | If I’m replacing a built-in hob, I want to know whether the model I’m considering will fit in its place and can be connected in line with the instructions. Around 21 % of consumers put installation feasibility first. |
| Alternative cooking method | Identify any pans you want to keep that aren’t suitable for induction, then check the installation requirements for the other hobs you’re considering. | I want to keep using certain incompatible pans without relying solely on induction zones. This is a priority for around 14 % of consumers. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Confusing visible width with the cut-out dimensions
Two hobs with a similar overall width won’t necessarily fit the same cut-out. Que Choisir distinguishes between the dimensions of the cut-out and those of the hob visible on the worktop. Depending on the material, an unsuitable cut-out can be difficult to alter.
Measure the existing opening and compare it with the model’s installation diagram. Don’t forget to allow for the ventilation clearances specified in the instructions.
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Assuming all metal cookware is suitable for induction
According to Que Choisir and Bosch Home Appliances, the base must be compatible and ferromagnetic. A pan’s metallic appearance alone doesn’t mean it will work.
Make a list of the items you use most and check their compatibility with the manufacturer before deciding which ones to keep.
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Choosing based only on the number of zones
The number of zones doesn’t tell you whether there’ll be room for your larger pans or for cooking several dishes at once. Zone sizes and whether they can be combined vary from one model to another.
Compare the bases of your pans with the stated zone dimensions, and check whether a flexible zone would suit a cooking task you actually do.
Brands to consider
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Joybuy products related to this topic
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Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if my pans will work on induction?
Check that each saucepan or frying pan you use has a base that’s compatible with induction and ferromagnetic, by looking at the markings or checking with the manufacturer. A pan without this type of base won’t heat up on an induction zone.
Will a new hob fit if it’s the same width as the old one?
Not necessarily. You need to compare the worktop cut-out with the new model’s fitting dimensions, not just its overall width. Check the clearances specified in the instructions too. Que Choisir highlights the difference between the cut-out and the visible dimensions.
What should I check when connecting an induction hob?
Compare the model’s power rating, voltage and connection instructions with your home’s electrical installation. In France, Legrand states that an induction hob requires a dedicated circuit. Ask a qualified professional to assess any connection or adaptation work needed.
What should I do with my old electric hob?
You can look into taking it to a collection point or household waste recycling centre, returning it to a retailer, or donating it to a social economy organisation. These are the options listed by France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition for electrical equipment. Check the practical arrangements with your chosen organisation.