What should you check before choosing?
Start by sorting out which pans you want to keep, then check that their intended use matches the hob zones on offer and your installation requirements.
Induction
Worth considering: if the pans you use most often have a base that attracts a magnet and is suitable for the zones you’ve chosen.
Bear in mind: pans without a ferromagnetic base won’t trigger induction cooking, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
Gas and induction combination hob
Worth considering: if you want to split your cooking between induction and gas zones.
Bear in mind: as well as checking the electrical connection, you’ll need to check the gas connection. The ministry responsible for ecological transition reminds consumers that gas appliances must be installed in line with safety regulations.
Ceramic hob
Worth considering: if keeping cookware that won’t work on induction is more important to you than switching to this technology.
Bear in mind: check the guidance for your pans, as well as the installation and connection requirements for the hob you choose.
| Criteria |
What to check |
What I need |
| Cookware compatibility |
Test the base of each pan with a magnet, as recommended by Electrolux Support France. For induction, also check the manual for the minimum and maximum base dimensions accepted by each zone. |
I want to know which pans I can keep and replace only those that won’t work with my new hob. |
| Hob zone layout |
Compare the number and size of the zones, and check whether two zones can be combined. Electrolux and Bosch describe this option on some hobs. |
My larger pans need to fit without getting in the way of other dishes I’m cooking at the same time. |
| Installation and power supply |
Check the cut-out dimensions, power rating and connection instructions for the model. Ask a professional to assess your available power supply: Promotelec distinguishes between general circuits and dedicated circuits for specific appliances. |
The new hob needs to fit my worktop and the electrical installation in my home. |
| Using gas |
For a combination hob, check the zones provided, the type of gas it uses and the connection requirements. The ministry responsible for ecological transition highlights the technical and safety regulations that apply to indoor gas installations. |
I want to keep the option of cooking with gas without assuming that my connection will suit any combination hob. |
Which brands offer examples of these options?
These models show some configurations worth considering; check the specifications of each individual model before you buy.
Electrolux
The brand offers induction hobs with zones that can be combined to accommodate larger pans.
- For the IXE6453KF, Electrolux describes a Bridge function that combines two zones.
- Check the manual for the model you’re considering to find out which pan dimensions and installation requirements it supports.
Bosch
Bosch’s FlexInduction technology is designed for cookware in different shapes.
- Bosch says that, on the relevant hobs, two zones can be combined to create one rectangular zone.
- Check the features and accepted pan dimensions for the specific model you’re interested in.
AEG
AEG offers a combination hob that’s worth considering if you want to cook with induction while keeping the option of using gas.
- AEG’s product information for the HDB64623NB lists two gas zones and combination induction heating technology.
- Check the model’s specific electrical requirements and gas connection.
Whirlpool
The AKT8090LX ceramic hob is an example worth considering if you don’t want to switch to induction.
- Whirlpool lists four zones and a 60 cm width for this model.
- Its product information specifies a connection rating of 4 700 W; check the installation, power supply and cookware guidance separately.
Ceramic hobs available on Joybuy
These two ceramic hobs are worth considering if you’d prefer to keep cookware that isn’t suitable for induction. Check each model’s guidance to make sure it’s right for your pans and installation.
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HK654850XB Series 3000, 60 cm ceramic hob
Worth considering if you don’t want to switch to induction. Before replacing a built-in hob, compare this model’s installation dimensions, cookware guidance and connection requirements with your existing setup.
View on Joybuy
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TOPWISH, 4-zone 60 cm ceramic hob
Its four zones and touch controls may suit a household that uses several pans at once. Check the cookware guidance, cut-out dimensions and connection requirements. Before assessing electrical compatibility, confirm the power rating that applies to this model.
View on Joybuy
Frequently asked questions
How do you test whether a pan works with induction?
Hold a magnet against the base: Electrolux Support France says that if it sticks, the pan is compatible. Then check the hob manual to see which pan dimensions are accepted by the zone you plan to use.
Is the induction symbol on a pan enough?
It’s a useful guide, but also test the base with a magnet and compare its dimensions with those accepted by the hob. A pan must be compatible with the technology and suitable for the zone you choose.
Should you have the electrics checked before choosing an induction hob?
Yes. Before ordering, ask a professional to check that your existing connection is suitable for the model you’re considering. Check the model’s electrical specifications and installation instructions; Promotelec notes that a dedicated circuit supplies a specific appliance.
Will a combination hob let you keep all your pans?
It gives you two ways to cook on one hob, but that doesn’t guarantee every pan will work on every zone. Pans used on induction must be compatible; for gas, check the model and its connection, and make sure they meet the relevant safety requirements.
What should you measure before replacing a built-in hob?
Measure the cut-out in your worktop and compare it with the new model’s installation dimensions, not just its overall width. Also check the installation instructions and electrical connection specifications.