Hong Kong, China – The Hong Kong Consumer Council (Consu) has published findings from its latest comparative test on 13 models of double-burner and full-zone induction cookers, revealing significant performance and energy efficiency discrepancies across products ranging widely in price, from HK$3,680 to HK$21,300. The comprehensive testing, detailed in the 568th issue of its Choice magazine, found that several popular models struggled with fundamental cooking tasks like maintaining adequate heat and achieving uniform temperature distribution, leading to the referral of six models to the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) for follow-up regarding energy labeling.
The assessment focused on cooking performance, energy consumption, and safety, providing essential guidance for consumers favoring induction technology for its clean operation and reduced ambient heat compared to traditional gas stoves.
Inconsistent Power Control Hinders Cooking Performance
A critical aspect of the test involved simulating complex cooking scenarios, such as deep-frying while simultaneously boiling water. Two models, namely the German Pool GIC-252DB and the Giggas GS-238D, failed to reach the required oil temperature of 180°C within the 45-minute benchmark, only managing to surpass 170°C. This indicated inadequate power control for simultaneous heavy use. Another model, the Panasonic KY-C223B, heating oil significantly slower, requiring nearly 40 minutes to reach the target temperature. In contrast, ten high-performing models successfully heated the oil and completed the frying task within 13.7 to 25.3 minutes.
Furthermore, uniform heat distribution proved problematic for five samples during a simulated pancake-making test, which requires even browning. The uneven heating resulted in the centers of the “pancakes” being significantly darker than the edges.
The issue of inconsistent heating extended to the three tested “full-zone” models, designed to merge heating areas. When using an elongated pot, testing showed that heat tended to concentrate at the ends of the zone, leaving the center, located between the induction coils, cooler.
Slow Cooking Standard Missed by Majority
For slow-cooking applications, such as simmering or making sauces, the test assessed the ability of the cookers to maintain very low, stable temperatures, adhering to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60350-2 standard. This standard requires strict control over oil temperature rise.
The Consu test found that nearly 70% of the tested induction cookers (nine models) failed to meet the low-power control requirements. During this test, the oil temperature in these models rose too rapidly within the first 18 minutes, preventing accurate slow simmering. Only four samples demonstrated adequate low-power control suitable for extended, low-heat cooking.
Energy Efficiency Labels Under Scrutiny
The Council’s investigation also highlighted potential mislabeling concerning energy efficiency. Five of the tested models had calculated energy efficiency ratings one level lower than indicated on their mandatory energy efficiency labels, raising concerns about consumer transparency and potential increased operational costs.
Notably, the Rasonic RIC-S44E, despite performing well in heating speed tests, recorded a standby power consumption exceeding 2.0 watts—the threshold for the lowest Grade 5 efficiency rating for double-burner models. This conflicted with the Grade 2 efficiency level claimed on its label. Standby power consumption across all models varied widely, from a minimal 0.13W to 2.28W. The test results concerning energy efficiency discrepancies have been submitted to the EMSD for further investigation.
Safety was also flagged for one German Pool model, the GIC-252DB, which automatically shut down during high-power testing due to over-temperature detection, indicating thermal stress on the appliance.
Consumer Recommendations for Induction Cookers
The Consu provided four key safety tips for consumers purchasing and operating induction cookers:
- Dedicated Power Source: Due to the high rated power of induction cookers, they should be connected to a dedicated wall socket and not share a plug with other high-wattage appliances.
- Proper Cookware: Always use induction-compatible cookware and ensure the pot size matches the specified burner area for optimal heating efficiency.
- Inspect Before Use: Check the cooker surface for any cracks or damage before each use. If cracks are found, immediately cease use and contact a service agent.
- Post-Cooking Cooling: The power should not be immediately cut off after cooking. Most models require the internal fan to run for a period to dissipate internal heat and cool the control panel, preserving the appliance’s lifespan.
Consumers are advised to consult the full test results available in Choice magazine before making a purchase.