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10
BEfORE SETTInG SuRfaCE COnTROLS
using Proper Cookware
The size and type of cookware used will influence
the heat setting needed for best cooking results .
Be sure to follow the recommendations for using
proper cookware as illustrated in "Figure 1: Testing
cookware" and "Figure 2: Proper cookware" .
Check for flatness by ro-
tating a ruler across the
bottom of the cookware
(see "Figure 1: Testing
cookware") . Cookware
should have flat bot-
toms that make good
contact with the entire
surface of the heating
element .
• 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.
figure 2: Proper cookware
figure 1: Testing cookware
• Curved and warped pans.
• Cookware larger than
element by more than
one-half inch or 12mm.
• Heavy handle tilts pan.
• Pan is much smaller
than the element.
Cookware material Types
The cookware material determines how evenly and
quickly heat is transferred from the surface ele-
ment to the pan bottom . The most popular materi-
als available are:
•
Aluminum - Excellent heat conductor . Some
types of food will cause it to darken (Anodized
aluminum cookware resists staining and pit-
ting) .
•
Copper - Excellent heat conductor but discol-
ors easily (see Aluminum) .
•
Stainless - Slow heat conductor with uneven
cooking results . Durable, easy to clean, and
resists staining .
•
Cast Iron - A slow heat conductor, but will re-
tain heat very well . Cooks evenly once cooking
temperature is reached .
•
Porcelain-enamel on metal - Heating character-
istics will vary depending on base material .
•
Glass - Slow heat conductor .
ImPORTanT
Do not place empty aluminum, glass, or porce-
lain-enamel coated cookware on the element .
The melting point of cookware made with these
materials may be reached quickly, especially if left
empty . If the cookware melts it will damage the
cooktop . Follow all the cookware manufacturer's
recommendations for use and care of cookware .
ImPORTanT
NEVER place or straddle a cooking utensil over
two different surface cooking areas at the same
time . Incorrect use may damage the cooktop .
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