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Induction Cooktop and Solar: High Energy Efficiency Cooking

We installed rooftop solar panels a few years ago and have been converting a lot of our systems over to electric to reduce our carbon footprint and use less fossil fuels – in our case expensive propane.

We’ve moved our hot water off the propane boiler to a heat pump electric hot water heater and our electric dryer to an extremely efficient washer/dryer combo from GE.

In the kitchen we have a propane cooktop/electric over combination range which we plan to switch over to a full electric induction range at somepoint but it’s expensive.

Since the majority of our meals seem to only require a single burner to boil water for pasta or heat up a frying pan for an omlete, we decide to get a single burner induction cooktop to try out induction cooking.

We got the this one from Nuwave – Nuwave Diamond Induction Cooktop, New & Improved Electric Burner with Probe

It has really worked out great for a lot of our cooking. We just put a cutting board across the gas burners, put this on top and cook under the existing exhaust fan.

When we have parties we often have a crockpot of meatballs going and now we can use this portable cooktop to keep a pot of chili or Morraccan Chicken Stew warm for guest.

If you are interested in trying out induction cooking or need a cooktop for an apartment, dorm room or even camping with electric hook up or a generator, this energy efficient cook top is perfect and it won’t break the bank at around $100.

The only draw back of using induction cooktops is the sound of the fan (not very loud but it is noticable – certainly not as loud as the exhaust fan). Also you have to have induction ready cookware – not glass. If a magnet can stick to your cookware you are good to go.

Nuwave Diamond Induction Cooktop

  • New & Improved Electric Burner with Probe
  • 91 Temps 50°F to 500°F
  • 6.5” Heating Coil, Shatter-Proof Ceramic Glass
  • 3 Wattage Settings
  • Ideal for Dorms, RVs & Apts

NuWave induction cooktops offer precise temperature control for more accurate cooking than traditional models. Instead of simply adjusting power, NuWave uses a temperature control chip to provide a wider range of stable cooking temperatures. Several models are available, each with impressive features:

  • Precise Temperature Selection: Choose from up to 106 preset temperatures (minimum 45 presets per model). Enjoy six quick-access presets or fine-tune your cooking in 5°F increments, from 50°F to 575°F. Cooking times can be adjusted from one minute to 100 hours, and scheduling is also available.
  • Advanced Temperature Control: The dedicated temperature control chip allows for delicate simmering at low temperatures (like 100°F for sauces) and high-heat searing (up to 575°F for steaks). Ideal for precision cooking, some models even support sous vide when used with a temperature probe.
  • User-Friendly Presets: Six common temperature presets simplify everyday cooking, and you can save up to 45 of your favorite recipes for instant recall.
  • Enhanced Safety: Built-in safety features include automatic shut-off after the set cooking time, preventing accidents. The cooktop also requires cookware to be present before it will activate, eliminating the risk of burns from exposed heating elements or open flames.
  • Efficient and Clean: NuWave induction cooktops are quieter and more efficient (85%) than traditional gas stoves. Experience the benefits of induction cooking and you may never go back to gas.
  • Portable and Versatile: The compact, circular design is perfect for small spaces and portable use. With three power settings, these cooktops are well-suited for RVs, dorm rooms, cabins, and campsites.