The Magnet Test To See If Your Pot Is Compatible With An Induction Stovetop

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Induction stovetops can be a little intimidating. There are a lot of benefits: They heat up rapidly, provide precise temperature control, and save energy. But not every pot is compatible with an induction stove, which can be a headache. Luckily, there is an easy test you use to check your pans in advance — and all you need is a magnet.

Tasting Table spoke to Bobby Hicks, author of "Retro Recipes", about how to shop for induction-compatible pans and he said the easiest way is to bring a small magnet to the store. "If you carry a magnet with you and it sticks to the bottom of a pan, it will prove that it's conductive and magnetic, which will work wonderfully on an induction burner."

The big difference between an induction and electric stove is that induction uses electromagnetic energy to turn pots and pans into their own source of heat. The current flows through a copper coil under the stovetop, creating a magnetic field that only responds with certain materials. As Hicks explained, "Induction burners use magnetic attraction to heat the molecules in the pot/pan itself, rather than heating an element that then heats the pot/pan. If the pot or pan is made from copper or some other non-magnetic metal, it simply won't activate the burner."

A lot of cookware doesn't work on induction stoves, including anything made of copper, glass, aluminum, or ceramic. However, some copper or aluminum cookware have magnetic bases that make them compatible with induction stoves. So, the magnet test is a good idea. If it sticks completely, you should be good to go. If the force is weak or the magnet slides off, you'll want to look for another option.

If you don't have a magnet with you, there is another way to tell if a material is fit for an induction stove. Hicks said newer products may have a symbol stamped on the bottom that resembles a spring or coil. If you don't see the symbol, you can ask a store employee whether the cookware is induction-compatible.

It might seem like a nuisance but there are a lot of reasons to choose an induction stove over an electric, and you may already own a lot of pots and pans that will work. As Hicks said, "When in doubt ... stainless steel, carbon steel or cast iron are always a surefire way to get cooking!"