One of the things you will need to consider as you choose your new kitchen countertops is what type of cooktop you will be using. Will you choose the standard cooktop and oven in a single unit? Or do you want a cooktop separate from your oven which is incorporated directly into your countertop? Or maybe you want something that gives you even more flexibility and can be stored away when not in use.
There are many options out there for you. One of the newest is portable induction cooktops. These are self-contained units with a single cooking element and operate from a standard 120 volt electric cord. They provide faster cooking times and more energy efficiency than gas or electric cooktops and are easy to clean and maintain.
Portable induction cooktops can be used on any work surface and are safe for any type of countertop. This is due to the fact that the outer contact surfaces of the cooktop stay cool to the touch. This is accomplished by using the power of electro-magnetic waves to heat the cookware that then heats the food. The only thing you have to do is make sure that your cookware is made from some type of heat-conductive metal. A good test is if a magnet will stick to the bottom of your pan, if it does then your container will work on an induction cooktop.
There are many companies manufacturing portable induction cooktops. GE, Viking, Wolf and Sunpentown are just a few. You can find reviews for these and many other brands through Consumer Reports, BizRate.com or by running a search through your favorite search engine.
Whether you want to totally eliminate a standard cooktop from your counters or you are wanting to add extra cooking space during the holidays and other special occasions, portable induction cooktops are a very viable option for you. When you are finished with them, they can simply be stored away leaving you more of that beautiful new countertop to admire!