Every electrical appliance has its own service lifespan which may be shortened due to poor maintenance and improper usage. The same applies to electric cooktops which have specific care and maintenance methods to ensure prolonged usability. Do ensure to read the manual of your individual electric cooktop models before attempting the tips we have shared here.
CLEANING ELECTRIC COOKTOPS
Before cleaning, always make sure your electric cooktop is switched off and cooled to at least room temperature. Every material requires different cleaning techniques, thus be sure to follow the right steps depending on the type of cooktop you have.
USING A GLASS-CERAMIC COOKTOP?
This material gets scratched easily regardless of it being an induction or an electric type. Hence, only clean using specific solutions and pads that are included in the cleaning kit for your cooktop model. You would first need to wipe the top with a damp pad to remove any spills before rubbing the entire surface without too much pressure. When you are done, wipe the top surface using a dry cloth until no residue is left.
CARING FOR METAL HEATING COMPONENTS
These can be found on more traditional electric cooktops which have coiled metal heaters. You can first remove them gently before wiping them down using a damp cloth without wetting the whole electric connection. You can use a mixture of water and baking soda if there are still visible stains. Let the mixture sit for around 10 minutes before scrubbing them off.
CLEANING DRIP PANS
There are several methods that can be used to clean these steel bowls. Most users simply dump them into their dishwasher to get rid of mild stains. However, more stubborn stains like dried-up residues of sauces or eggs may need soaking and scrubbing to remove completely. You need to first soak them in your sink before attempting to scrub using a Brillo pad. Alternatively, you can spray an oven cleaning agent onto your drip pans and letting it sit for around 10 minutes before rinsing.
USING AN ENAMEL-COATED COOKTOP?
Use a mild detergent on the surface before scrubbing it using a nylon pad instead of a steel wool to avoid scratching the top. To finish off with a shine, simply spray a little white vinegar.
USING A STAINLESS-STEEL COOKTOP?
This material is easier to clean by only requiring an all-purpose agent and wiping it dry afterwards. For more stubborn stains, simply let the agent sit for around 10 minutes before scraping any residue with a soft plastic or rubber scraper and drying the top with a towel.
MAINTAINING CLEANLINESS
Preventive care is the key to a clean cooktop which will in turn prolong its usability. This applies to every type of material especially glass-ceramic which requires immediate cleaning to prevent hardened residues that are difficult to remove. Try practicing daily cleaning habits or at least once a week if you are unable to.
If you follow these maintenance tips for electric cooktops well, you’re sure to help them remain in a tip-top working condition for longer. However, if your electric cooktop has completely malfunctioned and is beyond repair, maybe it’s time to look for your next electric cooktop!
