Pots, Pans, And Induction: Compatibility Reviewed

Induction cooktops are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency, safety, and responsiveness to temperature controls. However, the question arises: will your existing pots and pans work with induction? The answer depends on the type of cookware you have.

Induction cooking relies on creating a magnetic field between the pot and the magnetic coils beneath the cooking surface, which heats the contents of the pot. Therefore, for cookware to work on induction cooktops, it must contain ferromagnetic materials, such as cast iron, carbon steel, or stainless steel. A simple way to test if your cookware is compatible is by using a magnet – if it sticks to the bottom of the pot or pan, it will work on induction.

Cast iron cookware, including enameled cast iron, is generally compatible with induction cooktops, but it's important to use caution as the rough surface of uncoated cast iron can scratch the cooktop. Stainless steel cookware is also usually compatible, but it's important to check as some types of stainless steel with high nickel content can block the magnetic field.

Additionally, some manufacturers have started adding a magnetic layer to the bottom of aluminium, copper, or glass cookware, making them compatible with induction. However, older, non-magnetic pans of these materials will not work.

If you have a favourite piece of cookware that isn't compatible, don't worry – induction interference disks can be placed between the cooktop and the pan, allowing you to continue using your beloved cookware.

Cast iron, carbon steel, and stainless steel are induction-friendly

Induction cooktops work by creating a magnetic field between the pot and the magnetic coils beneath the cooking surface. The energy created in the electromagnetic field heats the contents of the pot. The cooktop is more responsive to changes in temperature control, and the cooking surface stays cool, making it safer.

For cookware to perform on induction cooktops, it must contain ferromagnetic materials. This means that it must have magnetic properties to work with the magnets in the stove. Cast iron, carbon steel, and stainless steel are all induction-friendly materials.

Cast iron is a durable and versatile option that works well with induction cooktops. It is affordable, has excellent heat retention, and can be used for various cooking techniques such as searing, frying, and baking. Cast iron skillets and Dutch ovens are popular choices for induction cooking.

Carbon steel is another great option for induction cooktops. It is made from roughly 99% iron, making it a fully induction-compatible material. Carbon steel is a good conductor of heat and heats up quickly and evenly on induction stovetops. It is also naturally non-stick and great for high-heat cooking.

Stainless steel cookware is crafted from an alloy of steel that contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium and may contain a small percentage of nickel. High-quality, multi-clad stainless steel cookware often includes an aluminium or copper core to aid with heat conduction. However, if the nickel content is too high, it can block the magnetic field and prevent the cookware from working with induction stoves.

To test if your cookware is induction-compatible, simply hold a magnet to the bottom. If the magnet clings to the underside, it will work on an induction cooktop.

Ceramic and aluminium may not be compatible

Induction cooktops use a magnetic field to generate heat and cook food. This means that the cookware used must have magnetic properties. The simplest way to determine whether a pot or pan will work with induction is to place a magnet on its underside. If the magnet clings to the bottom of the cookware, it will work on an induction cooktop. If the magnet grabs the pan softly, it may not work well on the cooktop. If there is no pull on the magnet, the cookware will not generate heat.

Aluminium and ceramic cookware will not work with induction unless the base of the cookware is iron or steel. This is because aluminium does not include any iron-based compounds, and ceramic is not magnetic. If you have a favourite piece of aluminium or ceramic cookware that does not work with induction, you can use an induction interface disk, which will act as a DIY burner to heat the cookware.

Check the base of your cookware for an induction symbol

When it comes to cookware, the induction symbol typically looks like a coil of wire with four loops. You can find this symbol embossed on the base of pans designed for induction cooking. It indicates that the cookware is compatible with induction hobs, which use magnetic induction to heat up the pot directly.

Some cookware may also have the word "Induction" or "Induktion" printed alongside the symbol, and induction-ready cookware may also be labelled as "Induction-ready". Pans manufactured for the European market are likely to feature this marking.

If your cookware does not have the induction symbol, you can still check its compatibility by using a magnet. Simply see if it sticks to the bottom of the cookware. If it does, your cookware will likely work with an induction hob.

Use a magnet test to check for magnetic properties

To determine whether your pots and pans will work with an induction cooktop, you can perform a simple magnet test. Induction cooktops use magnetic coils to generate heat, so your cookware must contain ferromagnetic materials, such as iron or a layer with magnetic properties, in order to work.

The magnet test involves placing a magnet on the bottom of your pot or pan. If the magnet sticks firmly, then your cookware will work with an induction cooktop. If the magnet does not stick, then the cookware does not have the necessary metals to generate heat on an induction cooktop. It is important to note that the magnet should adhere well to the pan. If it slides off easily, the cookware may not have enough magnetic qualities to work efficiently, or at all, on an induction stove.

You can use any magnet for this test, including a simple refrigerator magnet. This test is a quick and easy way to determine whether your cookware is compatible with induction cooktops. It is also useful when shopping for new cookware to ensure that it will work with your induction stove.

In addition to the magnet test, you can also check for an induction-ready symbol on the bottom of your cookware or the packaging. This symbol often looks like a horizontal zig-zag or a coil.

Induction interface disks can be used with incompatible cookware

Induction interface disks are a handy solution for those who want to use their non-induction cookware on an induction cooktop. These disks are usually made of magnetic stainless steel and enable non-induction cookware, such as aluminium, glass, copper, porcelain, and non-magnetic stainless steel, to be used on induction surfaces.

To use an induction interface disk, simply place it between the induction cooktop and your chosen cookware. The disk acts as a heat converter, allowing you to safely and efficiently cook with any type of cookware. The disk's stainless steel construction evenly distributes heat, and its stay-cool handle ensures a secure, comfortable grip.

While induction interface disks are a convenient solution, it is important to note that they may reduce the heat transfer rate when used with non-induction cookware that has larger diameters, thicker base sections, and large volumes of liquids and solids. Additionally, the disk may discolour with normal usage.

If you are considering using an induction interface disk, it is recommended to use it with smaller cookware to match the heating coil size. This will ensure better heat distribution and prevent overheating.

As an alternative to induction interface disks, you could also invest in a portable butane stove or a portable electric resistance coil stove to use with your non-induction cookware.

Frequently asked questions