Is It Time to Switch? What to Know Before Upgrading to an Induction Hob

Thinking of upgrading your kitchen? One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether to stick with a traditional gas or ceramic hob, or make the switch to induction.

Induction hobs are sleek, fast, and energy-efficient, but they also come with a few things to consider. If you’re wondering whether it’s the right move for your household, this guide will help you weigh the pros and cons and understand what to expect.

What Exactly Is an Induction Hob?

Unlike gas (which uses flames) or ceramic hobs (which heat a glass surface), induction hobs use magnetic energy to directly heat your cookware. That means the hob surface itself stays cooler, and energy goes straight to the pan.

Speed: Faster Than You Think

If you’re short on time in the kitchen (who isn’t?), you’ll appreciate the speed of induction cooking.

• Induction: Boils water significantly faster than gas or ceramic. Great for busy families or quick weeknight dinners.
• Gas: Offers immediate heat and great control, but slightly slower overall.
• Ceramic: Heats up and cools down slower, which can slow cooking and make temperature control tricky.

Verdict: Induction wins on speed and responsiveness.

Safety: Especially for Homes with Kids or Seniors

Safety is a major reason people switch to induction.

• The hob stays relatively cool to touch, as only the pan gets hot.
• Many induction models come with auto shut-off features, child locks, and no open flames.
• No more worries about gas leaks or forgetting to turn off a burner.

Verdict: Induction is a great option if you’ve got little hands or elderly loved ones at home.

Energy Efficiency: Better for Your Bills

Induction hobs are among the most energy-efficient cooking methods available.

• Induction transfers energy directly to your pot, no heat is lost to the surrounding air.
• Gas loses a fair amount of energy in the form of wasted heat.
• Ceramic is better than gas but still less efficient than induction.

Over time, the savings on your energy bill can add up.

Cookware Compatibility: Do You Need New Pots and Pans?

This is where many people pause before switching.

• Induction requires magnetic cookware, cast iron and most stainless steel work fine.
• If a magnet sticks to the bottom of your pan, you’re good to go.
• Aluminium, copper, or non-magnetic stainless steel won’t work unless they have a magnetic base.
  

Tip: You don’t need to replace everything at once, start with your most-used pots and build from there.

Cooking Experience: Does It Change the Way You Cook?

Induction offers precise control and a cleaner cooking surface.

• Temperatures adjust instantly, like gas, but without the flame.
• Spills don’t get baked onto a hot surface, just wipe and go.
• Some users find the silent operation and flat surface easier to work with.

However, if you’re used to visible flames or lifting pans off the heat to control cooking (a common habit with gas), it might take a bit of getting used to.

The Look: Sleek and Seamless

From a design perspective, induction hobs are modern and minimal.

• They sit flush with your countertop, giving a clean, seamless look.
• Easy to wipe down with no metal grates or burners in the way.

If you’re going for a stylish, clutter-free kitchen, an induction hob fits right in.

So, Should You Switch?

It might be time if:

• You want faster, safer, and more efficient cooking
• You have children, elderly family members, or a small kitchen
• You’re planning a kitchen upgrade and want a clean, modern look
• You’re open to checking your pots and pans for compatibility
  

But it’s okay to wait if:

• You rely heavily on high-flame cooking (e.g., wok cooking on gas)
• You’re not ready to invest in new cookware
• You prefer the tactile feel and visuals of flame-based cooking
  

Ready to Explore Induction Hobs?

At Mowe, we offer a full range of Wi-Fi-enabled induction hobs designed for performance and ease of use, perfect for both new builds and kitchen upgrades.

🔘 Browse our Smart Induction Hobs
🔘 Visit our Experience Centre to try one out in person

Upgrading doesn’t have to be complicated, it just needs to be smart.