Kitchen & Dining / Guide
Will Your Pans Work on Induction? Check the Base Before Replacing Them
Use the magnet test, then check the flat cooking base and minimum zone size to see if your cookware suits induction.
When a new cooktop is on the way, test the pans you already use. A pan that attracts a magnet across its base is a good candidate for induction. Check your model’s cookware instructions as well, since the cooktop needs to detect the pan at the zone where you plan to use it.
Measure the base instead of the rim
The advertised pan width often describes the top opening. Turn the pan over and measure the flat area that will contact the cooktop. Compare it with the cooking zone’s stated minimum or recommended pan size. GE Appliances’ cookware size guide explains why size and shape matter for induction.
Inspect the shape of the base
Check for rocking or obvious warping on a flat surface. The compatibility symbol on a new pan helps identify its intended use, while a flat base lets it sit evenly. Read the cooktop’s care instructions for materials and finishes before choosing replacements.
Replace pans by job
Make a short list of the cookware that failed the checks. Start with the saucepan or skillet you use several times a week. Try it on the zone you actually intend to use before replacing the rest of the set. A smaller group of compatible pieces can be more useful than a full boxed set with several sizes you rarely reach for.