Induction or infrared: which electric stove should you buy?

A severe gas crisis has been ongoing in the capital for several days. In some areas, gas stoves are not working at all. Arranging cylinder gas and connections is a hassle. As a result, many are turning to electric stoves as an alternative. Demand for these stoves has suddenly increased in the market, and prices have also risen depending on the area.

Different types of electric stoves are available in the market. So it is important to know which one is suitable for you, what the price is, and how much electricity each consumes.

Induction or infrared?
Two types of electric stoves are available in the market—induction and infrared. Induction stoves heat the cookware through an electromagnetic field. These stoves require special cookware. Only cookware made of materials that attract magnets can be used on induction stoves.

Infrared stoves, on the other hand, have a heating element (usually halogen or nichrome coil) beneath the glass. When electricity flows, this element heats up and emits infrared rays and heat. This heat first warms the glass and then the cookware. Any cookware can be used on an infrared stove. No separate cookware purchase is required.

On induction stoves, only the cookware gets hot. But on infrared stoves, the stove itself also gets hot. After cooking, this stove takes about 20 minutes to cool down. Induction stoves heat cookware faster, so cooking takes less time. Infrared stoves cook somewhat slower. Induction stoves consume less electricity compared to infrared ones.

Price
Most electric stoves on the market are single-burner. These range in price from Tk 4,000 to Tk 9,000. However, some 'double-burner' stoves are also available. These have one induction burner and one infrared burner. The price of these double-burner stoves ranges from Tk 7,000 to Tk 14,000.

Usage precautions
An electric stove can last 8 to 9 years if used with care. Spare parts are generally not available separately, so extra caution is needed during use.

Cooking water often spills on the glass of infrared stoves. After turning off and cooling, it should be wiped with a dry cloth.

Children must be kept away from electric stoves. After using an electric stove continuously for 3.5 hours, a 30-minute break should be taken.