You can switch to induction without replacing all your pans, provided the ones you use have a ferromagnetic base and meet the size requirements of your chosen hob. If you want to keep using cookware that isn’t compatible, consider a ceramic hob instead, or a dual-fuel induction and gas hob after checking your gas installation and ventilation. In every case, check the cut-out dimensions and electrical connection before ordering.
If you already own saucepans, frying pans or casseroles, check each one you use regularly before choosing induction. UFC-Que Choisir points out that cookware without a ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction hob. Electrolux France also recommends checking the base with a magnet.
Your new hob needs to fit the worktop cut-out, offer the cooking zones you want and match your available connection. In France, Promotelec says that an electric hob needs a dedicated circuit. For an option that includes gas, GRDF stresses the need for suitable ventilation.
If you use a large casserole, griddle or rectangular pan, check the dimensions and how the flexible zones work on the model you’re considering. With induction, a large zone doesn’t mean you can skip checking that the pan base is compatible.
Start with the cookware you plan to keep, then compare each type of hob with the space and connections available in your kitchen.
| Criteria | What to check | For your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware compatibility | For induction, test each base with a magnet and check that it’s flat. Then compare the base diameter with the dimensions allowed in the hob manual: the magnet test alone can’t confirm that a pan is suitable for a particular zone. | I want to keep using my usual pans without finding out after installation that some of them don’t work. |
| Cooking technology | Induction requires a ferromagnetic base; radiant or halogen zones on a ceramic hob don’t. A dual-fuel hob lets you combine induction and gas zones, subject to checking each installation. | If several of my pans aren’t suitable for induction, I’d rather look at another hob before planning to replace them. |
| Connection and fitting | Measure the cut-out and read the installation instructions for the model. In France, Promotelec says an electric hob must be connected to a dedicated circuit. Have any uncertain connections checked before work begins. | I’m replacing a built-in hob and want to know whether the new one will fit in its place and connect to my existing installation. |
| Gas and ventilation | For a dual-fuel induction and gas hob, check the gas supply and the ventilation in your home. GRDF says gas hobs need suitable ventilation. | I’m interested in a gas zone for some pans, but only if my kitchen can accommodate its installation and use. |
| Number and size of zones | Compare the number and size of the zones. If you use large pans, check the conditions for using a flexible zone on the specific model. A flexible zone won’t make a non-ferromagnetic base compatible. | My large pans need to fit on a suitable zone, without forcing me to replace cookware I already own unnecessarily. |
According to UFC-Que Choisir, cookware without a ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction hob. The size and condition of the base also matter for the model you choose.
Make a list of the cookware you use regularly. Test each base with a magnet, check that it’s flat and compare its dimensions with the hob manual.
This check could save you from having to replace several pans after installation.
The width of the hob’s front edge tells you neither the cut-out dimensions nor the connection requirements.
Measure the existing opening and the space beneath the worktop, then compare them with the model’s instructions. If you’re unsure about the electrical circuit, ask a qualified electrician for advice before ordering.
An incompatible cut-out may mean adapting the worktop or cabinet.
A dual-fuel hob requires you to check both the electrical connection and the gas installation. GRDF reminds users that gas hobs need ventilation suited to the home.
Have the gas supply and ventilation checked before choosing this type of hob, and don’t block any existing air vents.
A flexible zone can accommodate certain pan shapes, but it won’t allow an induction hob to work with a non-ferromagnetic base.
Check that the base is compatible, then check the dimensions and usage requirements for the zone in the model’s instructions.
If you use large pans, the Bosch PXE831HC1E induction hob is worth a look. Bosch lists it with a flexible zone and a 28 cm zone.
Electrolux France features the EHF65451FK ceramic hob, with four zones. It’s worth considering if you don’t want to rely on induction-compatible cookware.
Siemens Electroménager France offers induction hobs and domino hobs from 30 to 90 cm wide, giving you a starting point if space is limited.
These options include an induction hob, a ceramic hob and cookware to consider if you’d rather replace only the pans that aren’t compatible. Before choosing, check a hob’s dimensions and connection requirements, or the base and exact contents of a cookware item.
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Worth considering if you want to switch to induction and have compatible cookware. The product name lists four zones, a Boost function, a timer, a child lock and a residual heat indicator. Before buying, compare the permitted pan dimensions with your cookware, and check the cut-out and connection requirements.
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This ceramic hob is worth considering if you want to keep using pans with bases that aren’t suitable for induction. It has four zones. Check the worktop cut-out and electrical connection required.
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Worth considering if you need to replace a saucepan for induction cooking. The title lists a 16 cm saucepan with a removable handle, while the description refers to a set, so confirm exactly what’s included. Also check the base diameter against the zones on your hob.
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This stockpot is described as induction-compatible and could replace a large pan you can no longer use. Its name lists a 6 L capacity, 304 stainless steel, a composite base and a locking lid. Check the base diameter accepted by your hob, and follow the instructions for its micro-pressure system.
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This stockpot is described as induction-compatible and is another option if you only need to replace one pan. Its name lists a 6.5 L capacity, a composite base, silicone handles and a glass lid. Check the base diameter against your hob and confirm the body material before buying, as the information provided about it is inconsistent.
Test the base of each pan with a magnet: according to Electrolux France, it should stick. Check that the base is flat too, then compare its dimensions with those accepted by the zones in the hob manual. The magnet test alone doesn’t confirm that a pan is suitable.
Yes. A ceramic hob doesn’t require the ferromagnetic base needed for induction: its zones heat beneath the glass rather than using a magnetic field. However, check the size of the zones and the instructions for your chosen hob.
Don’t assume the existing connection will be suitable. In France, Promotelec says an electric hob needs a dedicated circuit and refers in particular to a 32 A socket for single-phase or 20 A for three-phase. Compare the model’s instructions with your installation, and ask a qualified electrician to check the plans if the circuit needs altering or you’re unsure about it.
No. You’ll need to check the required connections separately and make sure your cookware is compatible with the induction zones. For the gas section, GRDF says a gas hob needs ventilation suited to the home. Have the installation checked before choosing this option.