Electrical kitchen: Electrical Circuit Requirements for Kitchens

Electrical Circuit Requirements for Kitchens

By

Timothy Thiele

Timothy Thiele

Timothy Thiele has an associate degree in electronics and is an IBEW Local #176 Union Electrician with over 30 years of experience in residential, commercial, and industrial wiring.

Learn more about The Spruce’s
Editorial Process

Updated on 10/26/22

Reviewed by

Larry Campbell

Reviewed by
Larry Campbell

Larry Campbell is an electrical contractor with 36 years of experience in residential and light commercial electrical wiring. He worked as an electronic technician and later as an engineer for the IBM Corp. He is also a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.

Learn more about The Spruce’s
Review Board

The Spruce / Margot Cavin

A kitchen uses more electricity than any other room in the home, and the National Electrical Code stipulates that kitchens should be amply served by multiple circuits. In a kitchen that uses electrical cooking appliances, this can mean it needs as many as seven or eight circuits. Compare this to the requirements for a bedroom or other living area, where a single general-purpose lighting circuit can serve all the light fixtures and plug-in outlets.

At one time, most kitchen appliances were plugged into ordinary general outlet circuits, but as kitchen appliances have become larger and larger over the years, it’s now standard—and required by building code—for each of these appliances to have a dedicated appliance circuit that serves nothing else. In addition, kitchens require small appliance circuits and at least one lighting circuit.

Be aware that not all local building codes have the same requirements. While the NEC (National Electrical Code) serves as the basis for most local codes, individual communities can, and often do, set their own standards. Always check with your local code authorities on requirements for your community. 

  • 01
    of 07

    Refrigerator Circuit

    Inti St Clair/Photodisc/Getty Images

    A modern refrigerator requires a dedicated 20-amp circuit. You may currently have a smaller refrigerator plugged into a general lighting circuit, but during any major remodeling, install a dedicated circuit (120/125-volts) for the refrigerator. For this dedicated 20-amp circuit, 12/2 non-metallic (NM) sheathed wire with a ground is required for the wiring.

    This circuit usually does not require GFCI protection unless the outlet is within 6 feet of a sink or located in a garage or basement, but it generally does require AFCI protection.

  • 02
    of 07

    Range Circuit

    An electric range generally needs a dedicated 240/250-volt, 50-amp circuit. That means that you’ll need to install a 6/3 NM cable (or #6 THHN wire in a conduit) to feed the range. If it’s a gas range, however, it will only require a 120/125-volt receptacle to power the range controls and vent hood.

    During a major remodel, though, it’s a good idea to install the electric range circuit, even if you won’t currently be using it. In the future, you may want to convert to an electric range, and having this circuit available will be a selling point if you ever sell your house. Keep in mind that an electric range needs to push back to the wall, so position the outlet accordingly. 

    While 50-amp circuits are typical for ranges, some units may require circuits as large as 60 amps, while smaller units may require smaller circuits—40-amps or even 30-amps. However, new home construction typically includes 50-amp range circuits, since these are sufficient for the vast majority of residential cooking ranges.

    In kitchens where a cooktop and wall oven are separate units, the National Electrical Code generally allows both units to be powered by the same circuit, provided that the combined electrical load does not exceed the safe capacity of that circuit. However, typically the use of 2-, 30-, or 40- amp circuits are run from the main panel to power each separately.

  • 03
    of 07

    Dishwasher Circuit

    When installing a dishwasher, the circuit should be a dedicated 120/125-volt, 15-amp circuit. This 15-amp circuit is fed with a 14/2 NM wire with a ground. You may also elect to feed the dishwasher with a 20-amp circuit using 12/2 NM wire with a ground. Be sure to allow enough slack on the NM cable so that the dishwasher can be pulled out and serviced without disconnecting it—your appliance repairman will thank you.

    Note: a means of local disconnection or panel lock-out is required for dishwashers. This requirement is met via a cord and plug configuration or a small lockout device mounted on the breaker at the panel to prevent shock.

    Some electricians will wire a kitchen so the dishwasher and garbage disposal are powered by the same circuit, but if this is done, it must be a 20-amp circuit and care must be taken to make sure the total amperage of both appliances does not exceed 80 percent of the circuit amperage rating. Check with local code authorities to see if this is allowed. 

    GFCI and AFCI requirements vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Usually, the circuit requires GFCI protection, but AFCI protection may not be required, depending on the local interpretation of the code.

  • 04
    of 07

    Garbage Disposal Circuit

    Garbage disposals do the dirty work of cleaning up the messes after meals. When loaded down with garbage, they use a good bit of amperage as they grind up the refuse. A garbage disposal requires a dedicated 15-amp circuit, fed by a 14/2 NM cable with a ground. You may also elect to feed the disposer with a 20-amp circuit, using 12/2 NM wire with a ground. This is often done when the local code allows the disposal to share a circuit with the dishwasher. You should always check with your local building inspector to see if this is allowed in your locale. 

    Different jurisdictions may have different requirements requiring GFCI and AFCI protection for garbage disposals, so check with your local authorities. Including both AFCI and GFCI protection is the safest approach, but because the GFCIs can be prone to “phantom tripping” due to motor start-up surges, professional electrician often omit GFCIs on these circuits where local codes allow it. AFCI protection is generally required since these circuits are operated by a wall switch and the disposal may be wired to plug into a wall outlet.

  • 05
    of 07

    Microwave Oven Circuit

    The microwave oven needs a dedicated 20-amp, the 120/125-volt circuit to feed it. This will require 12/2 NM wire with a ground. Microwave ovens come in different varieties and sizes. Some are countertop models, and other microwaves mount above the stove.

    Although it’s not uncommon to see microwave ovens plugged into standard appliance outlets, larger microwave ovens can draw as much as 1500 watts, and these need their own dedicated circuits.

    This circuit does not need GFCI protection in most areas, but it is sometimes required where the appliance plugs into an accessible outlet. AFCI protection is usually required for this circuit since the appliance is plugged into an outlet. However, microwaves contribute to phantom loads, so you might want to consider unplugging them when not in use.

  • 06
    of 07

    Small Appliance Circuits

    Atop your counter-top you will need two dedicated 20-amp, 120/125-volt circuits to run your small appliance loads, including devices such toasters, electric griddles, coffee pots, blenders, etc. Two circuits are the minimum required by code; you can also install more if your needs require them.

    When planning the circuits and the location of outlets, try to imagine where you will place appliances on your countertop. If in doubt, add additional circuits for the future.

    Circuits powering plug-in receptacles serving countertop appliances should always have both GFCI and AFCI protection.

  • 07
    of 07

    Lighting Circuit

    Of course, a kitchen wouldn’t be complete without a lighting circuit to brighten the cooking area. At a minimum, one 15-amp, 120/125-volt dedicated circuit is required to power the kitchen lighting, such as the ceiling fixtures, canister lights, under-cabinet lights, and strip lights.

    Each set of lights should have its own switch, allowing you to control the lighting. Always consider future needs, as well. You may want to add a ceiling fan in the future, or maybe a bank of track lights. For this reason, it’s not a bad idea to install a 20-amp circuit for the general lighting use, even though code only requires a 15-amp circuit. 

    In most jurisdictions, a circuit that supplies only lighting fixtures does not require GFCI protection, but it may be required if a wall switch is located near the sink. AFCI protection is generally required for all lighting circuits.

    The 9 Best Under-Cabinet Lighting Options of 2023

Kitchen Wiring in Older Homes

In older homes that have not had their kitchen’s wiring systems updated, it is very common for kitchen wiring to be undersized for the electrical demands of a modern kitchen. It is not uncommon, for example, for a kitchen to have only two or three circuits, and for basic appliances such as the refrigerator, dishwasher, garbage disposal to be powered by the same general-purpose circuit that powers the light fixtures and countertop receptacles. Generally speaking, older wiring systems are allowed to remain in place (“grandfathered in”) when a kitchen undergoes modest remodeling efforts, such as simple replacement of appliances, flooring, and countertops. However, during major remodeling projects that require building permits, you may be required to bring your kitchen fully “up to code,” and this very likely will require adding several electrical circuits.

Kitchen Wiring in Newer or Remodeled Kitchens

During new construction or major kitchen remodeling, the building code will likely require that you bring both the plumbing and wiring systems into alignment with the current code requirements. This often involves adding electrical circuits and adding GFCI and/or AFCI protection. GFCIs have long been required in kitchens, but AFCI protection is a more recent addition.

AFCI protection: Beginning with the 2014 National Electrical Code revision and extended in the 2017 revision, a special type of circuit protection became required for many circuits in the home, including the kitchen. Known as AFCI (arc-fault circuit interrupters), these devices are designed to sense sparking (arcing) that occurs when electricity jumps between faulty wire connections. AFCIs shut down the current flow before a fire can occur.

In kitchens, the best advice is to make sure that all 15-amp and 20-amp circuits have AFCI protection. While this can be provided by special AFCI outlets, it is more typically done by installing circuit breakers with built-in AFCI protection. It’s important to note that AFCI protection is different than GFCI protection, and it does not replace those requirements. GFCI (ground-fault circuit interruption) protection, on the other hand, is about protecting against shock.

Many kitchen circuits require both AFCI and GFCI protection. In these instances, an electrician may install combination GFCI/AFCI circuit breakers, or they may use AFCI circuit breakers in combination with GFCI outlet receptacles.

There is by no means consensus on the requirements for AFCI protection in a kitchen. Even within a single jurisdiction, different inspectors may have different interpretations of the requirements. In some areas, any circuit that is served by a plug-in receptacles or wall switches requires AFCI protection, while elsewhere, the requirement is for AFCI protection for all 15-amp or 20-amp circuits, even those serving only hardwired appliances. The only way to be sure is to consult your local authorities before doing any circuit work in a kitchen.

Adding the necessary AFCI protection must be done whenever circuit work is done in the home. A professional electrician may be obliged to add some form of AFCI protection whenever working on a kitchen circuit, even for work as basic as replacing a single outlet receptacle.

Here is a list of the required electrical circuits in new kitchen construction or a major remodel.

Design a Kitchen Electrical Wiring Plan

By

Timothy Thiele

Timothy Thiele

Timothy Thiele has an associate degree in electronics and is an IBEW Local #176 Union Electrician with over 30 years of experience in residential, commercial, and industrial wiring.

Learn more about The Spruce’s
Editorial Process

Updated on 05/27/21

Reviewed by

Johnathan Brewer

Reviewed by
Johnathan Brewer

Johnathan C. Brewer II is a licensed general contractor specializing in kitchen, bath remodels, and general construction with two decades of professional experience.

Learn more about The Spruce’s
Review Board

Kitchen electrical wiring can easily be accomplished by first creating a kitchen electrical wiring plan. When planning your kitchen wiring, you must take into account appliances that will move from place to place, appliances that stay stationary, outlet placement for optimal usage, lighting locations for optimal light coverage in areas needed, and any specialized outlets or flexible connections, such as in the case of built-in ovens. 

A great plan is to plan for future appliances that you don’t have now, or possibly have not even been invented yet. Look back 30 years and remember what you had for kitchen appliances back then. Now look around at the kitchen appliances you now have and cannot live without. As you can see, without any outlets and circuits you have now, you’d never be able to power them up with the old wiring plan. 

Add a few extra outlets in the odd places like in the corners above the cabinets, next to the sink on both sides, and over very small cabinets to make sure you always have an outlet when you need one. And plan for your lifestyle and intended usage, too: If you have a tech-savvy household, plan to install USB outlets near workstations or other accessible spots for charging phones and tablets.

Small Appliance Branch Circuits

An appliance branch circuit supplies power to one or more outlets that appliances are connected to and that has no permanently connected lighting fixtures, that is, that are not connected to a part of the appliance. For instance, an oven with an oven light.

The National Electrical Code (NEC) states that a general-purpose branch circuit is a circuit that supplies two or more receptacles or outlets for lighting and appliances.

Minimum NEC requirements, as per Section 210.52(B), requires that the pantry, dining room, and kitchen, including the countertop outlets, be supplied by at least two separate circuits of 20 amps. Of course, you’ll want to add many more outlets and circuits for added convenience. Remember that adding additional outlets to these circuits is allowed in the pantry, dining room, and the kitchen.

Kitchen Appliance Circuits

Kitchen appliance circuits that need to be separate include garbage disposers, dishwashers, refrigerators, microwave ovens, electric ovens, electric ranges, and a dedicated circuit for a dining room receptacle.

Countertop Outlets

When you consider placing outlets for countertop use, remember that small appliances like crock pots, coffee pots, electric griddles, and pizza ovens come with short two-foot cords. Try to imagine where you’ll be using each small appliance that you have and position the outlets accordingly. Remember that an outlet is required within two feet of each side of the sink and an outlet no more than two feet from the end of the counter. In no circumstance is there to be more than four feet between countertop outlets.

GFCI Outlets in Wet Areas

In Section 210.8(A)(6), the NEC requires that all countertop outlets be ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). This GFCI protection can be in the form of either a GFCI receptacle or a GFCI circuit breaker.

Lighting

Lighting branch circuits only require a 15-amp circuit. If you have a lot of ceiling fans installed in your home, you may opt to install two-amp circuits for these outlets so that each fan (and its motor) has its own circuit. Ceiling fans incorporate both a fan motor and a light fixture with one or many bulbs. The load of one may not be much, but include a few on the same circuit and the 15-amp circuit doesn’t cut it.

When laying out the lighting fixtures, try to provide a uniform lighting layout for optimal light coverage. Try to wire circuits so that if one circuit trips, there will be another circuit with lighting close by so the lights don’t all go off at once.

Three-way switches should be installed where required to allow you to walk to and from any doorway allowing access to the light switching before entering a room. If lamps are to be used that plug into outlets, try installing split outlets that leave one-half of the outlet hot and the other connected to a switch to turn on the floor or desk lamp without having to cross the dark room to turn it on.

advice on choosing an electric cooker

A wide range of appliances is presented on the market of modern household appliances, among which one of the leading roles is played by a cooker. There are many varieties of it, but the main criterion by which it is classified is the principle of operation. Allocate gas, electric and combined models. Recently, an electric stove has become especially popular: it is used in those apartments in which there is no gas pipeline. Information about their varieties and tips for choosing – in this article.

4

Contents

  1. Types of electric stoves
  2. Freestanding options
  3. Table tiles
  4. Built-in models
  5. Ovens in electric stoves
  6. Choosing an electric stove for the kitchen 90 009

Types of electric stoves

purchase a gas stove, since installing an electric or combined one will require considerable electricity costs. In other cases, an electric stove is very convenient. But before you go to the store, you should study the main characteristics and types of electric stoves, their cost and manufacturer ratings.

Electric stoves are divided into:

  • free-standing;
  • desktop;
  • built-in.

The first ones are the most familiar, simple, suitable for any kitchen and allow you to rearrange them as many times as necessary. In addition, their cost is quite affordable compared to built-in models. Desktop – these are mini-plates, located on the countertop or any other convenient surface. Built-in stoves are a fashionable modern option that perfectly complements the kitchen set. In such models, it is possible to separately place the hob and oven.

Freestanding versions

All electric cookers can be divided according to the type of hobs into the following categories:

  • enamelled,
  • glass ceramic.

The classic and most familiar are enamelled, with cast iron burners. They are simple and easy to use, low cost, durable and practical, resistant to possible external damage such as accidental bumps and falling heavy dishes.

Of the minuses, one can single out a long cooking time, since the cast-iron burners heat up for a long time, and then also cool down for a long time. This consumes a lot of electricity. It is not very convenient to wash such a stove, due to the burners raised above the surface.

Glass-ceramic panels on electric stoves are much more modern. The surface of such a plate consists of a ceramic sheet, which is characterized by great strength. In care, they are more convenient, since the surface with burners is even and perfectly smooth. Also, cooking on such stoves is much faster. And electricity is consumed several times less than that of stoves with an enameled surface. In addition, glass-ceramic panels look attractive and emphasize any interior.

But such surfaces still have disadvantages – the impossibility of using dishes made of aluminum and copper, which leaves behind unattractive traces. Cast iron should also not be used. Glass-ceramic only requires a perfectly even and smooth bottom for pots and pans, so stainless steel cookware will have to be purchased for such stoves.

The ceramic surface can be accidentally scratched with a sharp object. This defect cannot be corrected. In addition, such plates are much more expensive than models with an enamel coating.

Table tiles

This option is suitable if the kitchen in the apartment is very small. Also, the stove can be taken on a trip, it will fit for a summer residence, or in another place where you need to cook food. This mobile and compact model is comfortable to use and practical, it is light in weight and takes up little space. Depending on the size of the family and culinary preferences, you can choose a stove with a different number of burners: from one, two or even four.

The tabletop model can be used as an addition to an existing freestanding or built-in cooker. Electric products can be used in conjunction with gas. This is convenient if for any reason there are interruptions in gas supply.

Tabletop electric stoves are pancake or spiral. The first have cast-iron burners, which have uniform heating when turned on. Their power is regulated by manual switches. Such stoves consume a lot of electricity due to slow heating. In addition, they cool down for a very long time and require safety with a free burner turned on.

Spiral tabletop cookers have a heating device of the appropriate type. They heat up quickly, cool down for a long time, and are controlled using manual switches. The surface of the plates is covered with enamel. The speed of cooking depends on how powerful the device is.

Table top cookers can also be equipped with a glass-ceramic hob or an induction hob. It affects not only the appearance of the product and the quality of cooking, but also the price. The requirements for cookware for these stoves are the same as for free-standing full-size ones.

Some models of tabletop electric stoves have an oven. This option is considered ideal for use in country houses, as it has high mobility and compactness. It is convenient for cooking in small spaces. But in terms of characteristics and capabilities, it practically does not differ from full-sized plates.

Oven cooktops can have one, two or even three burners. And the oven is equipped with two shelves for stewing and baking a golden crust. Food is heated evenly inside the cabinet. Included is a spit for frying meat. Also, similar stoves with ovens are usually equipped with a timer, a food defrosting function, etc.

Modern desktop electric stoves with an oven are equipped with a special control detector that does not allow the burners to be turned on if there are no metal utensils on them. This protects against accidental burns, and the drawer of the oven allows hot food to be taken out safely.

Built-in models

Recently, built-in kitchen appliances are in increasing demand. This is especially true for ovens and hobs. A wide selection of models of various designs allows you to experiment with the interior of the kitchen to your taste and transform both classic style and ultra-modern.

Due to the high demand for such equipment, manufacturers make hobs from high-strength glass ceramics, stainless steel and even use mirrors. The cost of such equipment is much higher than freestanding and, especially desktop. Such stoves are convenient for families with small children, as they are completely safe when properly installed.

Among the most popular hobs is induction. Outwardly, it practically does not differ from the usual electric one, but it has its own characteristic features. Firstly, you can cook on such stoves only in special dishes that tend to be magnetized. Secondly, the burners instantly heat up when turned on and also cool down quickly, which is very convenient. In addition, to automatically turn off the stove, it is enough to remove the dishes from the burners.

The surface is virtually stain-free and easy to care for by wiping with a tissue after use. But if food is being cooked on several burners at the same time, then they may not work at full capacity.

Ovens in electric stoves

The oven plays no less important role than the hob, so its choice should also be taken with all responsibility. The oven is divided into static and multifunctional. The first one is distinguished by heating in the upper and lower parts, and there is also a skewer in the kit.

Multifunctional ovens have a large number of different cooking modes, the process of which is quite fast. Some high-end models are equipped with automatic cleaning of the cabinet walls, while in cheap versions this process is done manually.

When choosing an oven, you should also pay attention to the control method, which can be mechanical or touch. The second one is also used in more expensive models and has many useful programs.

Choosing an electric stove for the kitchen

In order not to get lost in the huge selection of models, you need to decide in advance what kind of stove should be in the kitchen: its design, functions, equipment, type of hob and so on. Each of them has its positive and negative qualities, so it is important to analyze the pros and cons before buying, identify the price range and choose a suitable manufacturer with a high rating.

The standard slab depth is usually 550 mm, but models with other parameters are also available. Hobs with an enameled surface have spiral or solid burners. Some electrical panels are equipped with a special sensor that turns off the burners when they reach a certain temperature. Thus, less energy is consumed.

When choosing a hob, take into account the heating time. Enameled panels heat up longer and also cool down for a long time, but their price is low compared to glass-ceramic or induction ones. The latter instantly heat up and turn off when the dishes are removed from the burners, which is very convenient and safe.

Enameled stoves are more difficult to clean, stains burn quickly, and the burners raised above the surface cause a lot of inconvenience. Glass-ceramic panels are more convenient both in operation and in care: it is enough to wipe the surface with a napkin. In addition, they come with touch or mechanical control. The first is preferable in terms of security, especially for families with small children.

Choosing a stove is a tricky business that requires knowledge in this area. Electric stoves have a lot of advantages over gas stoves, but in order to make the right decision and purchase a really high-quality thing, you need to study in advance all the important information about the technical side of the issue. Reliable household appliances will last for many years and will be indispensable helpers in the kitchen.

features, varieties, tips for choosing, photos.

Choosing an electric stove for your kitchen is not always an easy task. The buyer is faced with a huge choice when choosing an electric stove. Types of electric stoves are divided into several categories, in order to choose the right option, you need to understand this issue a little.

The choice of an electric stove must be approached with all seriousness.

Contents

  • 1 How to choose an electric stove
  • 2 Classification by type of installation
  • 3 Types of electric stoves
    • 3.1 Standard
    • 3.2 Glass ceramic
    • 3.3 Halogen
    • 3.4 Induction

      • 90 034

    • 4 Heating surface material
      • 4.1 Cast iron
      • 4.2 Hi-Light
      • 4.3 Halogen
      • 4.4 Induction
      • 4.5 Combination heaters
    • 5 By oven type
      • 5.1 With electric oven
      • 5.2 Combined
    • 6 Shape and design
    • 7 Helpful tips for choosing
    • 8 Video: Induction hob or Electric hob
      • 8. 1 See also

        • 9 0034

      How to choose an electric stove

      Today it is impossible to find a single detailed classification of electric stoves. However, no matter what the electric stove is, the first step is to prepare a special outlet for this household appliance. All electric stoves are connected to a single unified power source. Wiring in the house must fully comply with electrical appliances, withstanding the load of the stove.

      The appearance of the burners can be as follows:

      • raised cast iron plates;
      • glass-ceramic heating surface.

      There are stoves with two types of burners.

      It is quite easy to distinguish between them. Cast-iron pancakes protruding upwards rise on small pedestals, while the latter have a smooth glass surface.

      See alsoTile kitchen apron: design and new ideas in 2022

      Classification by installation type

      All electric stoves can be divided into three broad categories according to the construction type:

      1. Portable. Usually small tiles have one or more heating zones. Most often used as temporary solutions in summer cottages, or during repairs.
      2. Built-in hobs. Integrates well with any kitchen set. They look very impressive and modern.
      3. The classic ranges are shipped with the oven and are heavy in appearance and heavy.

      The size of the electric stove will depend on the number of burners.

      The number of cooking zones affects the size of the appliance. Standard stoves can have from three to eight burners. Classic electric stoves can be full-sized or narrow. It should be well understood: the smaller the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe hob, the less heating zones (burners) will be on it.

      See also Purple design in the interior of the kitchen

      0022

      The modern home appliance market offers electric stoves with different functions, unique designs, custom colors or sizes. In order for the stove to delight guests with delicious dishes or fragrant pastries for a long time, you need to make the right choice. What are the plates according to their design features? Let’s consider further.

      See alsoWhat can be the design of a studio apartment

      Standard

      An important electrical appliance in a house without a gas pipeline. A huge number of different models will allow you to make a choice that suits any homeowner.

      Electric cooker std.

      Tubular electric heaters carry electric current. Electric heaters are located under each burner, and emit thermal energy. In other words, the Spirals under the burners are heated under the influence of an electric current. Heat is evenly distributed to all nearby objects.

      In classical stoves, current passes through a conductor with high resistance, while the conductor generates heat.

      See alsoWhat should be the design of a classic kitchen

      Glass ceramic

      The glass-ceramic worktop is smooth, mirrored and very stylish. In such stoves, the burners are indicated by a special contour.

      The heating element acts as a transmission link, heats up instantly and also cools down quickly. The heat heats the cookware as it passes through the glass of the stove surface. Glass ceramic has a unique property and has the best thermal conductivity in a vertical position. Due to this property, the dishes are heated better than the glass surface.

      Glass ceramic hob.

      Benefits of glass-ceramic hob:

      • Glass has an attractive design and high strength. Can hold containers up to 70 liters.
      • Changing the size and shape of the burners, in some models, greatly facilitates the preparation of dishes.
      • Uniform heat supply in the oven is ensured by placing several heaters around the inner perimeter.
      • The absence of irrational heat loss makes this technique economical.

      Main disadvantages:

      • It is better to pick up dishes with a dark smooth matte bottom without bends and potholes.
      • The low sides of glass-ceramic hobs will not be able to impede “escaping” liquid. You will have to remove such liquid from the floor.
      • On impact, a crack forms and the hob fails.
      • These boards require special care. It is forbidden to erase food residues with metal sponges or other objects, with the exception of a special scraper.

      The glass-ceramic hob is space-saving and can be combined with any design.

      When choosing glass ceramics, it is important to consider the following points:

      • Hobs can be equipped with three types of burners: halogen, induction or rapid. Induction by right are the best.
      • Different burner powers save energy better. Consequently, only the required amount of energy is expended for each burner diameter.
      • Reinforced oven seals prevent heat loss. And some of them can even clean themselves.
      • It will be convenient to have useful functions, such as programming specific dishes, a timer, automatic boiling control.

      See also Rustic kitchen design features

      Halogen

      Spiral tubes inserted into the surface of the stove, filled with halogen vapors, heat the burner almost instantly. Halogen vapors emit infrared radiation that heats dishes when an electric current is passed through them. With such plates, you can use absolutely any dishes.

      Single burner halogen hob.

      The burners in these stoves emit a soft red light. The cook can easily change the power of each burner individually during cooking.

      However, such plates have some peculiarities in operation:

      1. Surface scratches can cause the entire unit to malfunction.
      2. The surface is afraid of sugar and other loose materials.
      3. The plate is not protected against puncture damage. Appearing cracks immediately lead to failure of the entire plate.
      4. Do not clean the halogen surface with a dirty cloth.
      5. Hard cloths and washcloths can damage the hob.
      6. It is strictly forbidden to turn on the stove without dishes.
      7. Before preparing food, make sure that the bottom of the cookware is absolutely clean.

      See alsoSmall kitchen design – attention to every detail

      Induction

      Such plates are gaining more and more popularity in Europe. They will beautifully fit into any interior, the convenience of their use greatly facilitates cooking. A wide range of models, from small-sized single-burner models to full-fledged large stoves, opens up space for choice even for the most sophisticated customer.

      Induction cooker in the kitchen.

      Vortex induction flows are created by a high-frequency magnetic field and heat up the dishes. This approach to heating dishes eliminates heat leakage, which makes these stoves as economical as possible.

      This type of heating reduces energy consumption by quickly heating the dishes without wasting additional heat to heat the hob.

      The main advantages of such a device include the following features:

      • Smart features make this device practical and durable.
      • Energy savings are not only due to the heating of specific dishes, but also due to the automatic shutdown of the hob after removing the dishes.
      • These plates have increased safety. It is impossible to get injured or burn because the induction currents only heat the bottom of the cookware.
      • Dust does not stick to the panel, which makes it easier to maintain the stove and does not require special tools to keep such a device clean.

      For the induction hob, you need to purchase a special ceramic pad so that the surface does not scratch.

      The main disadvantages of the induction cooker include the following factors:

      • Only special cookware should be used with this hob. The burner will not react to porcelain, brass, glass, copper and ceramics.
      • Nearby refrigeration equipment interferes with the operation of the cooker.
      • Models with one, common frequency generator will lose power when using several burners at the same time.
      • Working from the mains, the stove creates a high load on the wires. Dangerous in houses with old wiring.

      When choosing an induction hob, pay attention to the following points:

      1. Required number of modes for power adjustment.
      2. If there are small children in the house, you should choose a model with a control panel lock.
      3. Be sure to test and choose a way to control the stove that is comfortable for you: magnetic, slider or touch.
      4. Determine the size and position of the burners in advance.

      Induction hob is a great option for families with children.

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      Heating surface material

      When choosing an electric stove, you need to pay special attention to the material of the heating surface. It is the type of heater that will determine the energy consumption, the speed of cooking and the types of utensils for cooking.

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      Cast iron

      Models with burner pancakes are often equipped with cast-iron pancakes together with spiral heating elements. Such installations always rise above the main surface of the plate. These elevations can create some inconvenience: tipping dishes, difficulties during cleaning. Also, such elements are not famous for their durability, because a point mechanical impact can easily split cast iron, which is not famous for its high strength.

      Electric stove with cast iron heating surface.

      However, cast iron is undemanding to the utensils used. No matter what material is used for cooking, the result will always be the same.

      Cast iron stoves are low priced and can sell well below other models. But the power consumption of such stoves is the highest. You can’t call them economical.

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      Hi-Light

      Tape heater is made of special alloy with good thermal conductivity. Using too much electricity, such a device will quickly heat the bottom of the dishes. Advanced technology is not widely used and loses a lot to induction panels.

      Electric cooker with hi-light surface.

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      Halogen

      Halogen heaters are the fastest heaters of all types. They have an average power consumption. Sufficiently reliable heating devices have a minimum number of complaints from users.

      Cooker with halogen heating.

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      Induction

      Induction heaters differ from their competitors by a completely different principle of operation. In other stoves, the heating element transfers heat to the burner, which heats the dishes. An induction heating element uses a magnetic field to directly heat the bottom of the cookware, bypassing the hob. This approach brought out two main advantages: economical energy consumption, as well as a sufficiently cold hob during cooking.

      Today, induction hobs are very popular.

      However, only special magnetic cookware will help to cook food on such a stove. At the same time, the main distinguishing fact is that the entire bottom should be magnetized. Such plates have the highest price tag among their competitors.

      Combined heaters

      Combination hobs are not to be missed when analyzing in detail all types of electric stoves. Completely different types of heating can be combined. An electric stove may also have a gas burner. Usually such plates are divided into two zones. Each zone has its own type of heating.

      Cooker with combined heating.

      Such models gain their distribution due to their versatility. The most common option is to combine ceramic burners with an induction cooker. Induction cookers are characterized by low consumption and safety, plus fast heating. The ceramic hob, although heated, can be used with any cookware. Thanks to this, you do not have to immediately change all the dishes.

      By type of oven

      All ovens, regardless of design features, are divided into two broad categories: electric and gas. Current trends dictate the market trend towards an electric oven. Does this mean that gas is a thing of the past?

      Two types of electric stoves differ in the type of oven.

      First of all, you need to understand that, regardless of the source of heating energy, the oven is a metal chamber with ventilation holes. The distance between the chamber and the cabinet walls is filled with heat insulator.

      Any oven transfers heat from the energy source to the object being processed in a non-contact way. All ovens are distinguished by the type and number of heaters that can be placed at the top, bottom, sides, and sometimes everywhere at the same time.

      With electric oven

      The electric oven is heated by electric heaters, which can be placed anywhere around the oven. There may be several tenes. This type of oven is easy to operate and maintain, relatively inexpensive and most common among users. As a rule, most combined electric stoves are equipped with an electric oven.

      Stove with electric oven.

      Combined

      Gas oven uses combustible gas. By changing the gas flow, you can change the temperature inside the oven. A constant flow of air is necessary for good functioning. Air combines with gas, resulting in a flame.

      Some manufacturers have begun to understand the benefits of combining gas and electricity, so they equip their ovens with several heating options at once. For example, a gas grill is more difficult to manage, but it greatly affects the taste of the prepared dish for the better.

      Stove with combined oven.

      These options are more expensive and more difficult to maintain, but provide more space for the chef’s creativity.

      Form and design

      Modern technologies make it possible to produce electric stoves with an impeccable appearance. Smooth surfaces, the absence of unnecessary details, beautiful and modern shapes – all this allows you to embed stoves in almost any kitchen interior design.

      The glass-ceramic hob can be painted in any color, and the ability to draw a unique pattern on it gives it a unique style.

      The stove should be combined with the overall interior design.

      Classic stoves do not stand out for their shape or design, but with their neat look they can decorate any cozy kitchen, and even Hi-Tech interiors.

      Stationary stoves are not at all creative, their use in the modern world fades into the background.

      Helpful tips for choosing

      Choose an electric stove after a fully finished kitchen interior. Only in this order can a complete and beautiful integration of the future electrical appliance into the interior of the room be guaranteed.

      When choosing an electric stove, first of all, decide what type it will be: built-in, classic or glass-ceramic?

      Pay special attention to the heating element. Induction heating elements are gaining more and more popularity, however, they will require a complete replacement of dishes. In this case, stoves with a combined heating element are the best alternative.

      Modern versions of electric stoves can withstand up to 70 liters.

      The structure and material of the hob is also best left unattended.