8
Using Proper Cookware
Check for flatness by rotating a ruler across the bottom of
the cookware (
Figure 2
). Cookware should have flat
bottoms that make good contact with the entire surface
heating element (
Figure 3
). For detailed information about
the ceramic cooktop, refer to the
“Glass Cooktop Cleaning”
on
page 25
.
Cookware Material Types
The cookware material determines how evenly and quickly
heat is transferred from the surface element to the pan
bottom. The most popular materials available are:
Aluminum - Excellent heat conductor. Some types of food
will cause it to darken (Anodized aluminum cookware
resists staining and pitting). If aluminum pans slide across
the ceramic cooktop, they may leave metal marks which will
resemble scratches. Remove these marks immediately.
Copper - Excellent heat conductor but discolors easily (See
Aluminum).
Stainless - Slow heat conductor with uneven cooking
results. Is durable, easy to clean and resists staining.
Cast Iron - A slow heat conductor however will retain heat
very well. Cooks evenly once cooking temperature is
reached. Not recommended for use on ceramic cooktops.
Porcelain-enamel on metal - Heating characteristics will
vary depending on base material. Porcelain-enamel coating
must be smooth to avoid scratching ceramic cooktops.
Glass - Slow heat conductor. Not recommended for ceramic
cooktop surfaces because it may scratch the glass.
The size and type of
cookware used will influ-
ence the radiant element
power level setting
needed for best cooking
results. Be sure to follow
the recommendations for
using proper cookware
as illustrated in
Figure 2
and
Figure 3
.
Figure 2:
Testing cookware
Figure 3:
Proper cookware placement
• Flat bottom and straight
sides.
• Tight fitting lids.
• Weight of handle does
not tilt pan. Pan is well
balanced
.
• Pan sizes match the
amount of food to be
prepared and the size
of the surface element.
• Made of material that
conducts heat well.
• Easy to clean.
• Always match pot
diameter to element
size.
• Curved and warped pans.
• Cookware larger than
cooking area marked on
cooktop by more than
one-half inch or 12mm.
• Heavy handle tilts pan.
• Pan is smaller than the
heating area marked on
cooktop.
Do not place empty aluminum, glass or porcelain-enamel
coated cookware on the ceramic cooktop! The melting
point of cookware made with these materials may be
reached quickly especially if left empty, and they may
bond to the ceramic cooktop. If the cookware melts it will
damage the cooktop! Be sure to follow all the cookware
manufacturer’s suggestions when using any type of
cookware on the ceramic cooktop.
The cooktop should not be used as a cutting board or
work surface. Dropping heavy or hard objects on the
cooktop may crack it. Pans with rough bottoms may
scratch the cooktop surface. Placing food directly on the
smoothtop surface (without cooking utensil) is not recom-
mended as difficult cleaning will result and foods may
smoke and cause potential fire hazard. Never use the
griddle or similar cooking sheet on the ceramic glass
cooktop.
IMPORTANT
CAUTION
BEFORE SETTING SURFACE CONTROLS
