Before replacing a built-in hob, check that your pans are compatible, measure the cut-out and find out what connection the model requires. UFC-Que Choisir points out that induction needs a ferromagnetic base and that cut-out dimensions differ from the hob’s external dimensions. A ceramic hob avoids this magnetic requirement, while a mixed-fuel hob may let you keep cooking with gas if the installation is suitable.
If you use several pans every day, check their bases and the permitted diameters before choosing induction. UFC-Que Choisir and Electrolux Assistance explain that induction requires compatible cookware and that the permitted diameters depend on the model.
The existing cut-out and connection may determine which models are suitable. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between cut-out and external dimensions, while Bosch’s guidance illustrates why it’s important to check the dimensions for the exact model you’re considering.
If you use several pans at once or cook with a large dish, compare the layout of the cooking zones and see whether a flexible zone would be useful. Models described by UFC-Que Choisir and Bosch have different configurations.
When replacing a built-in hob, start with your cookware and kitchen installation, then compare the cooking zones and any costs that genuinely apply to your project.
| What matters | What to check | Who should check this ? |
|---|---|---|
| Cookware compatibility | Test the bases with a magnet and check the permitted diameters in the instruction manual. | If you want to keep using your usual pans, check that they’re compatible before choosing a technology. Around 30 % of consumers prioritise keeping their cookware. |
| Cut-out and connection | Measure the opening and check the cut-out dimensions and the model’s electrical requirements. | If you’re replacing a hob without making unnecessary changes to your fitted kitchen, measure the opening and have the connection checked before buying. Around 24 % of consumers prioritise choosing a hob that suits their existing installation. |
| Cooking-zone layout | Compare the layout and size of the zones with the pans you use at the same time. | If you cook several things at once, the layout matters just as much as the advertised number of zones. Around 17 % of consumers prioritise being able to use large pans at the same time. |
| Overall cost and energy use | Allow for any cookware purchases or adaptations that are genuinely needed, and compare energy use on a like-for-like basis. | If you’re keeping an eye on the cost of replacing your hob, take the hob itself, any pans you may need to replace and any required adaptations into account. Around 17 % of consumers prioritise the overall cost. |
| Keeping gas | Check the cooking-zone layout in the instruction manual and confirm which connections are involved. | If you want to keep cooking with gas while considering induction, check the exact configuration and installation requirements. Around 12 % of consumers prioritise keeping a gas burner. |
For energy use, ADEME’s reference figures distinguish between induction and ceramic hobs, among other things, but they can’t predict the energy use or bill for an individual household. Compare technologies on the same basis of use rather than using an average to estimate your own costs.
A pan with a non-ferromagnetic base won’t work on an induction zone. The permitted diameter also depends on the model, as UFC-Que Choisir and Electrolux Assistance explain.
Make a list of the pans you actually use, test their bases with a magnet and compare their diameters with the guidance in the instruction manual.
You may need to replace some incompatible pans.
The external dimensions don’t tell you the size of the opening in your worktop. So a hob may not fit the existing cut-out.
Measure the opening and available space, then check the cut-out dimensions and clearances specified for the exact model.
You may need to adapt the worktop or choose a different model.
ADEME’s published reference figures don’t predict how long you’ll use the hob or what your household’s bill will be.
Compare technologies on the same basis of use and factor in any costs genuinely required for your cookware and installation.
A mixed-fuel hob has requirements relating to both gas and electricity. Electrolux’s French product page for the KDI641723K gives contradictory information about the layout of its cooking zones.
Check the exact configuration in the model’s instruction manual and have the planned work assessed before installation.
You may need to carry out checks or work on your installation.
Induction models with fixed or flexible cooking zones, for comparing built-in options.
The AKT 8090/NE ceramic hob is a four-zone model to consider if you’re comparing an option without induction’s magnetic cookware requirement.
The KDI641723K is a mixed induction-and-gas hob to consider if you want to keep cooking with gas.
The EX651HEC1F is an induction model to compare if you regularly use large pans.
This selection includes built-in induction hobs and a ceramic hob, so you can compare cooking options and the number of zones.
No image available
Compare this induction hob if you want to cook several things at once.
Four zones, including two combinable FlexiBridge zones for larger pans.
The product page lists DirectTouch Pro controls and a PerfectFry sensor.
Check your pans are compatible, and confirm the cut-out dimensions and connection before installation.
No image available
Worth considering if you’re looking for a four-zone induction hob for cooking several things at once.
Four zones and a Booster function are listed.
The product page says this model isn’t suitable for flush installation. Check the cut-out dimensions and connection in its documentation.
No image available
Compare this model if you want to use several pans on a four-zone hob.
The product page lists nine power levels, a 565 × 495 mm cut-out and a 220–240 V power supply.
The product page says installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician. Check the requirements for your home and the model.
No image available
Consider this model if you’re looking for four independent zones for several pans.
The product page lists nine power levels, a 560 × 490 mm cut-out and a 32 A rated fuse.
Check the cut-out and have the connection assessed before installation.
No image available
Compare this two-zone ceramic hob if you’d prefer one over an induction hob.
The product page lists two zones, nine heat settings and a timer from 1 to 99 minutes.
The description says it’s compatible with several pan materials, including aluminium and ceramic. Check that your cookware is suitable before buying.
Two zones may limit how much you can cook at once with several pans.
Test the base with a magnet: if it sticks, that’s a useful first check. Also make sure the base and its diameter match the guidance in the instruction manual, as the permitted diameter varies by model.
No. Measure the cut-out in your worktop and the available space, then compare these with the cut-out dimensions and clearances required for the exact model. The external width isn’t the same as the cut-out width.
No. For the relevant requirements, Promotelec specifies a dedicated 32 A circuit for an electric hob. This doesn’t confirm the condition of your existing circuit or the connection requirements for the model. Have these checked before installation.
No, not automatically for every replacement. Article 21 of the order of 23 February 2018 requires a certificate for a gas installation modification as defined in the text, with some exceptions, including certain minor modifications according to Cegibat. Have the work assessed before deciding whether a certificate is required.
Yes. The legal guarantee of conformity applies when a professional sells a new product to a consumer. For a new product, the Ministry of the Economy states that the presumption that a fault existed at the time of purchase lasts for two years. Check the terms for installation services or a commercial warranty separately.