When replacing your hob, choose the number of cooking zones to suit the dishes you cook at the same time and the cookware you want to keep. Two zones may work well in a compact kitchen, while three or four offer other layouts to compare. A flexible zone can be useful for larger cookware, while a mixed hob is only worth considering if you also want to keep gas and your home’s installation allows for it. Que Choisir Ensemble reminds readers that pans used on an induction hob need a compatible ferromagnetic base. Also check the cut-out dimensions and connection requirements for your chosen model.
If you prepare several parts of a meal at the same time, compare the number and spacing of the zones you can actually use together. Les Numériques describes different induction hob layouts, but you don’t necessarily need four zones.
If you use a stockpot, a large frying pan or an oblong dish, check the diameter of the zones and the conditions for using a function that lets you combine them. Les Numériques notes that some three-zone layouts include a larger-diameter zone.
If you want to keep a gas burner alongside induction, consider a mixed hob and check the separate requirements for gas and ventilation. Teka’s product details describe this type of configuration; GRDF explains that ventilation requirements depend on certain conditions being met.
First decide whether you want to keep a gas burner, as this option involves some additional installation checks. If you choose an all-induction hob, pick the number and layout of the zones to suit the way you cook and the cookware you use.
| Consideration | What to check before buying | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking several dishes at once | Compare the number and spacing of the zones with the pans you use for a typical meal. | If you cook several dishes at once, you’ll need zones that can be used together without getting in each other’s way; around 27% of consumers prioritise cooking in parallel. |
| Cookware compatibility | Check that cookware for the induction zones has a ferromagnetic base, and that its size is suitable for the zones. | If you want to keep your pans, check that they work with the zones you choose; around 27% of consumers put keeping their cookware first. |
| Fitting your home | Compare the cut-out dimensions and the appliance’s connection requirements with the available space and existing supply. | If you’re replacing a hob in an existing cut-out with an existing connection, check that both are compatible with the model’s instructions; around 20% of consumers prioritise how well it fits their home. |
| Larger cookware | Compare the stated diameter of the zones and the conditions for using a Bridge or flexible-zone function. | If you regularly cook with a stockpot or large frying pan, check that the zone will suit it; around 13% of consumers prioritise using larger cookware. |
| Keeping gas | Check the layout of the zones, the type of gas the appliance uses, and the applicable installation and ventilation requirements. | If you want to keep a flame alongside induction, make sure this configuration is suitable for your home; around 13% of consumers prioritise keeping gas. |
The overall width alone won’t tell you whether the appliance will fit the cut-out or work with the existing connection.
Measure the cut-out and check the supply details, then compare them with the instructions for the exact model before ordering.
Adapting the cut-out or connection may involve extra work.
A Bridge function combines zones for certain larger items of cookware; it doesn’t create extra spaces for several small pans.
Decide whether you’d rather cook several dishes separately or use one large pan, then check the zone layout and the conditions for using the function.
A mixed hob combines induction zones with a gas burner, so you’ll need to check the use and installation requirements for both technologies.
Check the instructions, gas supply and applicable ventilation requirements for your home before choosing this option.
Adapting the gas supply or ventilation may involve extra work.
The DGCCRF explains that free « one-for-one » take-back applies to an equivalent used appliance; it doesn’t mean removal or installation work is included.
Ask the seller to confirm the arrangements for take-back and delivery separately, along with any installation services available.
Worth considering if you want to compare examples with two, three or four zones, with or without flexible zones.
Compare its induction hobs with standard or flexible zones, checking the specifications for each model.
Worth considering if you want to keep a gas burner alongside induction zones.
Compare its four-zone hobs with the option to combine zones, such as the WL B5860 AL.
This Joybuy selection includes two-zone induction hobs in portable and built-in formats, as well as models with three or four zones.
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Its portable design may suit you if you want two cooking zones without a built-in installation.
Suitable cookware is listed as having a diameter of 12 to 24 cm.
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Its two cooking zones are designed to let you prepare two dishes at the same time.
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According to the product details, this model can be built in or placed on a worktop.
Stated power: 3 400 W; stated width: 29,5 cm; nine heat settings; stated supply: 220–240 V.
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With three zones, this built-in hob may suit you if you cook several dishes at the same time.
Stated power: 7 200 W. The product details specify a dedicated connection with a 32 A circuit breaker and installation by a qualified electrician; check that these requirements can be met in your home.
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Its four stated zones may suit meals that involve cooking several dishes at once.
Stated maximum power: 7 200 W; connection without a plug. Check the dimensions and connection requirements in the product details before buying.
Check that the pans you plan to use on the induction zones have a compatible ferromagnetic base, then compare their dimensions with those of the zones on your chosen model. Que Choisir Ensemble reminds readers that a pan without a compatible base won’t heat up on an induction hob.
No. The connection requirements depend on the appliance’s specifications and your home’s installation, not just the number of zones. For examples relating to specific models, Electrolux lists 3 650 W for the LIT30231C and Bosch Électroménager France lists 4 600 W for the PUE611BB5E. These figures aren’t enough to assess a particular installation.
No. GRDF states that a single-flow mechanical ventilation system may meet the air renewal requirements for a room with an unflued gas cooking appliance under certain conditions, including requirements for extraction, air inlets and air circulation. The presence of a ventilation system alone doesn’t mean these conditions are met.
No. The ministry responsible for the ecological transition distinguishes between new or fully renovated installations and existing homes, which are subject to the rules that applied when they were built. However, you should check that the supply is safe and suitable, following the instructions for the hob you’re considering. This information isn’t a substitute for an assessment of your home.
In France, the statutory legal guarantee of conformity is compulsory when a consumer buys from a professional seller. The Ministry of the Economy states that you have two years to make a claim under this guarantee; any additional commercial warranty offered doesn’t replace it.