Everything You Need to Know About Induction Cookware

Everything You Need to Know About Induction Cookware

Induction compatible pans make cooking quick, responsive and efficient, but working out whether the pots and pans already in your cupboard will work can be less straightforward. From understanding how induction cooking works to checking the induction symbol on your cookware, there are a few simple things worth knowing before you buy.

In this guide, we'll cover how induction cooking works, how to check your existing cookware, which materials work best, how to care for induction cookware and what to look for when choosing new pots and pans.

How Does Induction Cooking Actually Work?

Induction cooking works differently from traditional gas and electric stovetops. Rather than heating the cooking surface first, an induction cooktop creates a magnetic field that induces electrical currents directly in the base of compatible cookware. The pan itself becomes the heat source.

Gas cooktops use an open flame to heat the base of a pan, while electric cooktops use electrical resistance to generate heat that is transferred to the cookware. Induction can offer faster heating and more precise temperature control because the heat is generated directly in the cookware.

It also means less heat is lost to the surrounding air, making induction an efficient way to cook.

How to Spot the Induction Symbol on Your Pots, Pans and Saucepans

The symbol for induction cookware is generally shown as a series of loops or a coiled spring. You'll usually find it stamped or printed on the base of the cookware, although it may also appear on the packaging or product information.

When checking your saucepans and frying pans, turn them over and look at the base for the symbol. The exact design can vary slightly between brands, so don't worry if it doesn't look identical every time.

Can't find an induction symbol? That's where the magnet test comes in. Place a magnet against the base. If it sticks firmly, there's a good chance the cookware is induction compatible. If neither the symbol nor the magnet test gives you a clear answer, check the manufacturer's product information before using it on your cooktop.

What Actually Makes a Pan Induction Compatible?

For a pan to work on an induction cooktop, it needs a magnetic base. You don't need special equipment to check whether your existing cookware is suitable; a quick magnet test and a look for the induction symbol will usually tell you.

Try the magnet test

Hold a magnet against the bottom of the pan. If it sticks firmly, the cookware is likely to work with induction.

Look for the induction symbol

Check the base of the pan or its original packaging for the induction symbol, which looks like a series of loops or a coiled spring.

If you're replacing cookware, you can also browse House's induction cookware collection.

One extra thing to listen for when you're cooking: a pinging or humming noise can indicate a poor magnetic connection between the pan and cooktop, or a lower-quality induction base. Some noise can be normal, but an unusually loud or persistent sound is worth paying attention to.

Do You Need Special Cookware for Induction, or Will What You've Got Work?

You don't necessarily need to replace your entire cookware collection when you switch to induction. Many stainless steel, cast iron and non-stick pans are already compatible, provided they have a magnetic base.

What generally won't work is cookware made entirely from non-magnetic materials such as pure aluminium, copper, glass or ceramic without a magnetic layer or base.

If you're buying new cookware rather than replacing everything at once, there's another sensible option: start with one piece. Try a basic saucepan or frying pan on your cooktop and see how it performs before committing to a full set. Every pan can respond a little differently depending on its construction and base.

If you do decide it's time for a complete refresh, our guide to How to Choose a Cookware Set can help you work out what you actually need.

Does Stainless Steel (or Cast Iron, or Non-Stick) Work with Induction?

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel can work very well with induction, but stainless steel itself isn't necessarily magnetic. Induction-compatible stainless steel cookware typically has a magnetic layer or a construction that includes materials such as aluminium or copper to improve heat distribution. Browse our stainless steel cookware sets for induction-compatible options.

Cast Iron

Cast iron is naturally magnetic, so it works well with induction and retains heat exceptionally well. Its main drawbacks are its weight and the care required by some cast iron surfaces.

Non-Stick

Non-stick cookware can work with induction too. The important thing is what's underneath the non-stick coating: the base needs to contain magnetic material for the pan to heat on an induction cooktop.

The construction of the base also affects how cookware performs. Heavier, thicker bases are well suited to slow, steady cooking and strong heat retention, while thinner layered bases can heat and respond to temperature changes more quickly.

For a broader look at how different cookware materials perform, see our guide to Understanding Different Cookware Materials.

How to Care for Induction Cookware

Proper care helps keep your induction cookware performing well for longer.

If your induction cookware has a non-stick surface, our guide to How to Clean a Non-Stick Pan Safely has more specific care advice.

Shop Induction Ready Cookware at House

Once you know how to check compatibility, choosing induction-ready cookware is much simpler. If something in your cupboard isn't suitable, or you're ready to upgrade, explore our range of induction cookware at House.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Use an Induction Pan on a Gas Hob?

Yes, induction-compatible cookware can generally be used on a gas cooktop too. Just keep a few things in mind. Induction cookware can be heavier, so make sure your gas stove grates can support it. Its flat base may also sit differently on the grates, and gas flames can create hotspots across the base of the pan.

How Do You Clean and Care for Induction Cookware?

Let cookware cool before washing, then use a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners and metal utensils where they could damage the surface. Store cookware somewhere dry, particularly if it contains materials that can rust. For non-stick induction cookware, follow the specific care instructions for the coating.

Is Induction-Specific Cookware More Expensive?

Sometimes. Induction-compatible cookware can cost more because of the materials and construction needed for an effective magnetic base. However, a quality piece can be a worthwhile investment thanks to the efficiency, fast heating and precise temperature control of induction cooking, as well as the durability of well-made cookware.

What Brands Offer Induction-Compatible Cookware at House?

House offers induction-compatible cookware from brands including Baccarat, Tefal and Swiss Diamond. The right choice depends on the material, construction and cookware pieces that suit your cooking style.

Can You Use Cast Iron on an Induction Cooktop?

Yes. Cast iron is naturally magnetic, making it well suited to induction cooking. It also retains heat exceptionally well, which makes it useful for slow cooking and searing. Just remember that cast iron is heavy, and bare cast iron requires regular seasoning to maintain its cooking surface.

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