Cooktop care: gas, induction and electric cooktop cleaning and maintenance

Cooktops are the free-standing or counter-top cousins of built-in hobs. They come in gas, induction and electric versions, and each one behaves a little differently in daily use. Knowing which type you have makes it much easier to clean it properly and spot problems early.

Understanding your cooktop

Gas cooktops burn LPG or piped gas through open burners and work with almost any vessel. Induction cooktops use a magnetic field to heat the base of the pan directly, so they need cookware with a magnetic base and the glass surface itself stays relatively cool. Electric (radiant or ceramic) cooktops heat an element under the glass, which then heats the pan.

Each type has its own strengths. Gas gives instant, visible flame control; induction is quick and efficient; electric radiant tops are simple and work with most flat-bottomed cookware.

Common uses and benefits

• Flexible placement on an existing counter, without cutting it
• Gas: familiar control and broad vessel compatibility
• Induction: fast heating and an easy-to-wipe surface
• Electric radiant: steady heat for simmering and slow cooking

Features and things to consider

• Cookware: induction needs magnetic-base vessels. A fridge magnet that sticks to the base is a quick test.
• Power: induction and electric cooktops draw significant current; use a suitable socket and avoid extension boards.
• Ventilation: induction units have cooling fans with vents; keep these clear.
• Placement: keep cooktops on a stable, level, heat-safe surface away from water splashes.

Common cooktop problems

Induction shows an error or will not heat

Often unsuitable cookware, a pan that is off-centre, or blocked cooling vents.

Uneven heating

Warped pan bases, a weak element, or (for gas) partly blocked burners.

Fan noise on induction

Dust in the cooling fan or vents.

Gas burner flame lifting or popping

Burner parts not seated correctly or ports partly blocked.

Cleaning and care tips

• Gas: remove grates and burner caps, wash in warm soapy water, and clear burner ports gently.
• Induction and electric glass tops: wipe with a damp cloth once cool. For stubborn marks, use a cleaner made for glass-ceramic surfaces and a soft cloth.
• Lift pans rather than sliding them across glass, to avoid scratches.
• Keep vents on induction cooktops free of dust and crumbs.
• Wipe sugary spills promptly on glass tops, as they can mark the surface once burnt on.

When to call a professional

• Error codes keep returning after you have checked cookware and vents
• The glass is cracked, or the unit trips the power
• You notice a burning smell from inside an induction or electric unit
• A gas cooktop has a persistent yellow flame or you suspect a leak