When it comes to cooking, having a reliable stove is a must. Buying a new stove can be overwhelming when you haven't been in the market for some time, things have probably changed, and you have new things to consider when making your selection.
We have created a helpful buying guide to help you choose a good stove be it an induction or a gas stove, for the way you and your family cook. Take a look at our tips below on how to choose an induction/gas stove your kitchen.
1. Types of stoves
The market offers various types of stove, each catering to different cooking styles and household needs. Understanding their unique features and benefits will help you select the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Gas stove
Gas stoves remain a classic choice for Indonesian kitchens. With their instant and precise heat control, they are ideal for traditional cooking methods and high-heat recipes like stir-frying.
Most types of cookware are compatible, making them a versatile option for families who enjoy a variety of cuisines.
Check out some of our gas stoves:
- Blue flame burns efficiently to lower energy cost.
- High power burner is ideal for stir-frying.
- Durable, easy-to-clean ceramic glass surface.
- Blue flame burns efficiently to lower energy cost.
- High power burner is ideal for stir-frying.
- Durable, easy-to-clean ceramic glass surface.
- Blue flame burns efficiently to lower energy cost.
- High power burner is ideal for stir-frying.
- Durable, easy-to-clean ceramic glass surface.
Induction stove
Induction stoves are renowned for their energy efficiency and safety features. They heat up quickly and offer a cool-to-touch surface, reducing the risk of burns. However, they require induction-compatible cookware. These stoves are perfect for modern homes that value sleek designs and eco-conscious cooking.
Find more helpful information in our article about Things you need to know about induction cooking.
Check out our induction stoves:
- Induction is safe, fast, and energy efficient.
- Power management prevents electrical outages.
- Residual heat indicator helps to avoid accidents.
- PowerBoost provides quick, intense heat.
- Induction is safe, fast, and energy efficient.
- Pot detection lights up the controls for the zone.
- PowerBoost provides quick, intense heat.
- Induction is safe, fast, and energy efficient.
- Pot detection lights up the controls for the zone.
Comparison: Gas vs. Induction stoves
Choosing the right stove often depends on your cooking habits and kitchen needs. Here is a quick comparison:
|
Feature |
Gas stove |
Induction stove |
|---|---|---|
|
Heating speed |
High |
Very high |
|
Energy efficiency |
Moderate |
Very high |
|
Safety |
Open flame risk |
Cool surface, child lock |
|
Maintenance |
Moderate |
Easy to clean |
|
Cost |
Affordable |
Higher upfront cost |
2. Key factors to consider when buying a new stove
Selecting the ideal stove involves more than just aesthetics. Detailed consideration of factors like size, installation, heat control, and energy efficiency ensure you make the right choice for your cooking needs.
Size and burners
Choosing the right stove size and burner configuration is critical for meeting your cooking needs. Below is a guide to help you select the best option:
|
Configuration |
Best for |
Features |
|---|---|---|
|
2-cooking zone stove |
Singles or small households |
Compact size, easy installation |
|
3-4-cooking zone stove |
Medium-sized families |
Balance of multitasking and space-saving |
|
5+ cooking zone stove |
Large families or avid home chefs |
Accommodates oversized cookware |
Consider how many burners you’ll need based on the types of dishes you frequently prepare. For example, multi-course meals may require more burners, while minimalists can opt for a smaller setup.
Installation types
The installation type plays a significant role in the aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen. Built-in stoves offer a seamless and modern appearance, integrating perfectly with countertops. These are ideal for contemporary kitchens and provide an uncluttered look.
Freestanding models, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility and are easy to move or replace, making them a practical option for rented spaces or traditional kitchens.
Heat control and energy efficiency
Efficient heat control is crucial for precision cooking.
- Gas stoves: Technologies like StepFlame allow for precise flame adjustments, perfect for delicate dishes or high-heat stir-fries.
- Induction stoves: Provide unparalleled precision with adjustable power levels and fast transitions from boiling to simmering.
When it comes to energy efficiency, induction stoves lead the way, converting energy directly into heat with minimal wastage. Gas stoves, while less efficient, still offer excellent control for traditional cooking.
By considering these factors, you can choose a stove that complements your kitchen and enhances your cooking experience.
3. Other considerations
In addition to the primary factors, a few extra details can further refine your decision-making process.
Features and innovations: Modern stoves come with a host of innovative features, such as, timer settings for precision cooking, and safety features like child locks and flame failure detection.
Price and budget: While budget is a crucial factor, it’s worth investing in a stove that offers long-term value. Premium models often include advanced features and energy efficiency, which can save money over time.
Maintenance and care tips: Proper care ensures the longevity of your appliance. Clean spills promptly to prevent stains or grease buildup. For gas stoves, regular checks of burners and gas lines are essential. Use non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths for tempered glass surfaces to maintain their shine. Check out our tips to clean your gas stoves properly.
Reviews: Reading user reviews provides insight into real-world performance and durability, helping you make a confident purchase decision.
4. Tips to choose the right outdoor stove
Outdoor kitchens have recently gained popularity among Indonesian families. Not only do they deliver a more engaging and enjoyable cooking experience, but they also keep cooking fumes from building up inside homes with inadequate ventilation.
When choosing an outdoor stove, start by thinking about fuel efficiency, cooking power, stability, ease of use, cooking style, and personal preferences. Look closely at the stove style - whether it uses canisters, liquid fuel, wood, or something else. Don’t forget to consider the unit’s weight, how compact it packs down, and its durability.
Here are some tips for choosing a stove for an outdoor kitchen:
- Opt for durable, weatherproof materials: Look for stainless steel or powder-coated finishes that resist rust and withstand the elements. Make sure the surface is easy to wipe down and maintain.
- Prioritize a reliable ignition system: A blue-flame gas burner or an induction cooktop offers instant, consistent heat and won’t falter in gusty conditions.
- Protect your power source (induction-only): If you choose induction, install a dedicated, weather-sealed outlet with ground-fault protection to ensure safe, uninterrupted operation.
- Build under a sturdy, expansive roof: A broad overhang shields your cooking area from rain, bird droppings, and harsh sun, letting you cook in all types of weather.
- Illuminate the workspace: Install bright, adjustable lighting directly above the stove and prep zones so you can see every detail, especially during evening gatherings.
Check out this video to get the most of your induction stoves:
5. Why choose Electrolux
Electrolux stoves are designed to enhance your cooking experience. With innovative features like StepFlame, FlameShield, SenseFry, Auto heat-up, AutoOff technology and energy-saving modes, our stoves cater to diverse cooking needs.
Additionally, Electrolux provides exceptional after-sales support, ensuring your investment is protected for years to come. Our warranties and dedicated service teams give you peace of mind, so you can focus on creating memorable meals with ease.
Elevate your cooking game with Electrolux. Discover our range of stoves & hobs today and experience the perfect blend of functionality and style.
6. Stove & hob FAQs
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What is an induction stove?
An induction stove is an electromagnetic flat surface stove that ensures fast heating using direct induction heating of cooking vessels. It is a seamless, cost-effective, and time-efficient stove.
With induction stoves, the heat is instant as your pan is heated by a magnetic field instead of a flame or electric element. This makes the pot or pan the heat source not the stove surface, allowing it to heat up faster and create a safer cooking environment for you and your family. -
How does induction cooking work?
When a suitable cooking pot or pan is placed on top of the induction stove an electric current is passed through a coil of copper wire that is located underneath the ceramic plate.
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Do I need new pots and pans?
To ensure your pan is compatible with an Induction stove it needs to have magnetic capability. This can be simply tested by placing a magnet on the bottom of your pan to see if it attracts, if so then your pan should work on the stove.
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Is induction cooking better than gas?
Cooking with induction gives you precise temperature control. It is more precise than gas or electric counterparts. Not to mention the flexibility to accommodate different types and amounts of cookware (pots and pans with magnetic capability).
Induction cooking is also highly efficient because very little heat energy escapes-unlike with an open gas flame, the heat goes around the cookware and just a minimal residual heat is left when you remove the cookware.
Not sure which one is right for you? Read this post for more details regarding the pros and cons of induction stoves, gas stoves and ceramic stoves. -
How do you clean an induction stove?
These are simple tips to clean and maintain an induction stove:
- Make sure you switch off the stove before cleaning.
- Let the stove cool down before cleaning.
- Dab a small amount of glass ceramic stove cleaner onto the stove.
- Make use of a damp sponge to wipe away spills on the stove.
- Wipe off the stove with a clean, dry cloth.