Can You Put An Induction Hob In A Stainless Steel Countertop?
A really great question that came up recently. Can you install an induction hob (stove/cooktop) in a stainless steel countertop? It’s not something that has come up too often in my kitchen design career.
However, with the growing popularity of induction cooking and clients seeking alternative countertop materials, it was bound to happen soon!
So let’s take a look!
Can You Put An Induction Hob In A Stainless Steel Countertop?
Yes, you can install an induction hob (stove/cooktop) in a stainless steel countertop. There won’t be any interference or functionality issues with the induction technology and the stainless steel countertop.
Firstly and most importantly, stainless steel kitchen worktops should not be magnetic. So there really should be no interference with an induction hob.
As well as this, induction hobs require that a magnetic pan is in direct contact with the area that holds the electromagnetic coil in order to function.
As the stainless steel worktop would be around the edges of the induction hob and not in direct contact (above) with these electromagnetic coils, there won’t be any interference.
You can see some examples of kitchens with stainless steel worktops and induction hobs from StainlessdirectUK as well as a beautiful kitchen from Roundhouse.
However, if you are at all unsure it is always advised to double-check with the appliance manufacturer.
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Are Stainless Steel Countertops Magnetic?
No, stainless steel countertops should not be magnetic.
Stainless steel countertops are usually made using 304-grade steel (sometimes 316-grade). Both of these are austenitic stainless steels and as such should not be magnetic.
304 Grade: The most versatile and widely used stainless steel for kitchen countertops because of its good resistance to corrosion.
316 Grade: Typically seen in commercial kitchens or laboratories. 316-grade is more costly because it provides higher corrosion resistance, particularly against chlorinated solutions.Â
Can You Put A Portable Induction Cooktop On A Metal Table?
Yes, you can use a portable induction cooktop on a metal table. There should be enough separation from the electromagnetic coils under the glass at the top of the cooktop and the metal table beneath the unit that there will be no interference.
Just make sure that all ventilation is free from obstruction, so the cooktop doesn’t suffer from overheating.
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Final Thoughts…
There you have it! An interesting question – answered!
Quick and easy, there should be no problems having an induction hob (cooktop) installed in a stainless steel countertop.
If you’re a fan of the industrial modern look, having an induction hob set into a stainless steel worktop can be a great option for your kitchen design.
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Author
Michael is a kitchen designer from the UK. He's been designing and project managing new kitchen installations for around 10 years. Before that, he was an electrician and part of a team that fitted kitchens. He created Kitchinsider in early 2019 to help give people advice when it comes to getting a new kitchen.
