A comprehensive test of 13 dual-zone and full-surface induction cookers by the Hong Kong Consumer Council has uncovered alarming performance gaps, with two models unable to heat cooking oil to the required temperature within 45 minutes and nearly 70% failing international low-heat control standards. The findings, published in the Council’s Choice magazine issue 568, challenge the assumption that higher-priced appliances—ranging from HK$3,680 to HK$18,580—deliver superior safety or efficiency.
Test Methodology and Scope
The Council evaluated 13 induction cookers from popular brands including German Pool, Panasonic, Whirlpool, Siemens, Rasonic, and Giggas. Three were newer “full-surface” models designed to merge two heating zones into one larger cooking area. Tests assessed heating performance, energy efficiency, heat distribution, and safety under simulated daily cooking conditions.
Key testing scenarios included:
- Heating cooking oil from room temperature to 180°C on the primary burner within 45 minutes
- Frying frozen potato chips immediately after reaching temperature
- Simulating low-heat simmering by melting chocolate over extended periods
- Measuring standby power consumption and energy label accuracy
Major Findings: Fire Risk and Poor Temperature Control
Two Models Fail the Oil Heating Test
Two induction cookers—the German Pool GIC-252DB and the Giggas GS-238D—could only raise oil temperature above 170°C but never reached the target 180°C within the 45-minute window. This indicates insufficient power output for high-heat cooking like deep-frying.
Another model, the Panasonic KY-C223B, was slow to heat, requiring nearly 40 minutes to reach 180°C, leaving just enough time to fry a single batch of chips. In contrast, the other 10 models achieved the target in 13.7 to 25.3 minutes and successfully fried one to three batches.
Nearly 70% Fail Low-Heat Simmering Standards
For stews and soups requiring gentle heat, the Council tested whether cookers could keep oil temperature from exceeding 53°C in the first 18 minutes, reach at least 40°C within 30 minutes, and never exceed 75°C. Only four models passed this international standard (IEC 60350-2). The rest heated oil too quickly, making them unsuitable for delicate simmering.
Uneven Heat Distribution Raises Concerns
Five models produced pancakes with darker centers and lighter edges, indicating uneven heat distribution. The problem was particularly pronounced in all three full-surface models, where the area between the two induction coils consistently cooked food less thoroughly—a design limitation caused by heat having to travel from the coil zones to the center of the cooking surface.
Energy Efficiency Labels Called Into Question
The Council found significant discrepancies between claimed and actual energy efficiency ratings:
- The Rasonic RIC-S44E had a standby power consumption exceeding 2 watts, earning an actual efficiency grade of 5 stars (the lowest) despite its label claiming 2 stars.
- Five other models tested one efficiency grade lower than their labels indicated.
- Test results have been forwarded to the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) for investigation into potential labeling violations.
Standby power ranged widely from 0.13 watts to 2.28 watts, with most models performing well—except for the Rasonic unit.
Safety Incident: Overheating Triggers Automatic Shutdown
During testing, the German Pool GIC-252DB automatically shut down after its internal sensors detected excessive surface temperature. While the safety mechanism functioned correctly, the incident underscores that even premium models may struggle with sustained high heat.
Practical Takeaways for Consumers
The Consumer Council emphasizes that price does not predict performance. Among the highest-rated 4-star models, one was available for just HK$4,280. Shoppers should prioritize verified performance data over brand or cost.
Safety Tips for Induction Cooker Users
- Use a dedicated power socket—induction cookers draw high wattage and should not share outlets with other appliances.
- Read the manual thoroughly and use cookware with flat, magnetic bases for optimal efficiency.
- Inspect the ceramic surface before each use—cracks can cause electric shock or fire; stop using immediately and contact the manufacturer.
- Do not unplug immediately after cooking—the internal cooling fan continues running to protect components; waiting a few minutes extends lifespan.
Broader Implications
This test serves as a critical reminder that appliance regulation and consumer protection must keep pace with technological innovation. With induction cookers growing in popularity for their ease of cleaning and cooler kitchens compared to gas stoves, buyers cannot rely on price as a proxy for quality. The Council urges the government to strengthen energy label enforcement and consider mandatory safety certifications for low-heat performance.
For those in the market, the full list of tested models and their ratings is available in Choice issue 568. As the Council’s findings show, doing your homework before buying could prevent a kitchen fire or a disappointing meal—and save money in the process.