BEFORE SETTING SURFACE CONTROLS
Using proper cookware
The size and type of cookware used will influence the setting needed for best cooking results. Be sure to follow the recommendations for using proper cookware as illustrated in Figures 1 & 2.
Cookware should have flat bottoms that make good contact with the entire surface heating element (Figure 1). Check for flatness by rotating a ruler across the bottom of the cookware (Figure 2).
About the radiant surface elements
The element temperature rises gradually and evenly. As the temperature rises, the element will glow red. To maintain the selected setting the element will cycle on and off. The heating element retains enough heat to provide a uniform and consistent heat during the off cycle.
For efficient cooking, turn off the element several minutes before cooking is complete. This will allow residual heat to complete the cooking process.
Figure 1
Figure 2
About the ceramic glass cooktop
The ceramic cooktop has radiant surface elements located below the surface of the glass. The design of the ceramic cooktop outlines the area of the surface element underneath. Be sure to match the pan size with the diameter of the element outline on the cooktop and only
The type and size of cookware, the number of surface elements in use and their settings, are all factors that will affect the amount of heat that will spread to areas beyond the surface elements. The areas surrounding the elements may become hot enough to cause burns.
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NOTE
Radiant elements have a limiter that allows the element to cycle ON and OFF, even at the HI setting. This helps to prevent damage to the ceramic smooth top. Cycling at the HI setting is normal and can occur if the cookware is too small for the radiant element or if the cookware bottom is not flat.
Be sure to read detailed instructions for ceramic glass cooktop cleaning in the General Care & Cleaning section and Before You Call checklist section of this Use and Care Guide.
Cookware material types
The cookware material determines how evenly and quickly heat is transferred from the surface element to the pan bottom. The most popular materials available are:
Aluminum- Excellent heat conductor. Some types of food will cause it to darken (Anodized aluminum cookware resists staining & pitting). If aluminum pans slide across the ceramic glass cooktop, they may leave metal marks which will resemble scratches. Remove these marks immediately.
Copper- Excellent heat conductor but discolors easily. May leave metal marks on ceramic glass (see Aluminum above).
Stainless steel- Slow heat conductor with uneven cooking results. Is durable, easy to clean and resists staining.
Cast iron- A poor heat conductor however will retain heat very well. Cooks evenly once cooking temperature is reached. Not recommended for use on ceramic cooktops.
Glass- Slow heat conductor. Not recommended for ceramic cooktop surfaces because it may scratch the glass.
NOTE
Due to the high intensity of heat generated by the surface elements, the glass surface will turn light green when the element will be turned off. This phenomenon is normal and the glass will come back to its original white color after it has completely cooled down. (White glass cooktops only).