So, you’ve got a new Whirlpool induction cooktop and you’re ready to get started. This Whirlpool Induction Cooktop How To Use guide will walk you through everything from the first plug-in to mastering its features. Induction cooking is fast and efficient, but it works differently than a traditional stove. Don’t worry—once you know the basics, you’ll find it’s incredibly simple and precise.
Let’s begin with what makes induction unique. Instead of heating a coil or a flame, it uses magnetic energy to heat the pot or pan itself. This means the cooktop surface stays cooler, and boiling water happens in record time. But it also means you need the right kind of cookware.
Whirlpool Induction Cooktop How To Use
Before you touch any buttons, the first step is always cookware. Using the correct pots and pans is not just a suggestion—it’s essential for the cooktop to work.
Step 1: Checking Your Cookware
Induction requires magnetic-based cookware. A simple test is to see if a magnet sticks firmly to the bottom of your pot.
– Good to use: Cast iron, enameled cast iron, and many stainless-steel pots. Most will have an “induction-ready” symbol on the bottom (a coil of loops).
– Will not work: Pure aluminum, copper, glass, or ceramic cookware (unless they have a magnetic base layer).
– Pan size matters: The pot’s base should generally match the size of the cooking zone you select. A small pan on a large zone may not heat efficiently.
Step 2: Initial Power-Up and Controls Overview
Plug in your cooktop or ensure it’s receiving power. You’ll usually hear a faint fan sound—this is normal for cooling the internal electronics.
Locate the main power button, often separate from the cooking zone controls. It might be labeled “Power,” “On/Off,” or have a symbol (like a line in a circle). Press and hold this for a second to wake up the cooktop. A beep might sound, and displays will light up. Now you’re ready to select a zone.
Step 3: Selecting a Cooking Zone and Setting the Power
Most Whirlpool induction cooktops have touch controls. They are sensitive but designed to prevent accidental activation.
1. Place your compatible pot or pan on the desired cooking zone.
2. Tap the “+” or power level button corresponding to that specific zone. A number or bar graph will appear on its display.
3. Use the “+” and “-” buttons to adjust the power level. You’ll often have settings from 1 (low simmer) to 9 or 10 (max power boil). Some models have a “Power Boost” or “Turbo” function for extra-fast heating.
4. The cooktop will now begin to heat your pan. You might here a slight humming sound from the pan—this is also normal.
Step 4: Using Essential Functions
Your Whirlpool model likely has some handy smart features.
The Timer Function
This is incredibly useful. You can set a timer for a cooking zone without affecting the heat level.
– Select the zone you want to time.
– Press the “Timer” button.
– Use the “+” and “-” buttons to set the minutes.
– When the time is up, the zone will usually beep and switch off automatically. This is perfect for boiling eggs or simmering a sauce.
Bridge Function (For Some Models)
If you have a rectangular zone or two zones that can be linked, this function lets you use a long griddle or oval roaster.
– Place your elongated cookware over the two (or more) zones.
– Activate the bridge function, often by touching a symbol between the zones or a specific “Bridge” button.
– Set the power level, and it will heat the entire area uniformly.
Pause Function
Need to quickly answer the door? The “Pause” button (often with a “II” symbol) temporarily suspends all cooking zones. Press it again to resume exactly where you left off. This is safer than turning each zone off and on.
Step 5: Safety Features and Locking the Controls
Induction cooktops come with excellent built-in safety.
– Auto Shut-Off: If no pot is detected, or if a pot boils dry, the zone will turn off after a short time.
– Residual Heat Indicator: A “H” or hot surface light will remain on for a zone that is still warm from cooking. This light must be off before you clean it.
– Control Lock: To prevent accidental changes (from children or pets), press and hold the “Lock” button (often a padlock symbol) for 3 seconds. All controls except the power button are disabled. Repeat to unlock.
Step 6: Turning Off and Basic Cleaning
When you’re done cooking, you can turn individual zones off by reducing their power to “0” or pressing their “-” button until the display goes blank.
To turn the entire cooktop off, press and hold the main power button. Wait for all displays to turn off and the residual heat indicators to go out.
Cleaning is straightforward because spills don’t bake onto a hot coil.
1. Ensure the cooktop is completely cool. The “H” light should be off.
2. Wipe with a damp cloth or a cooktop cleaner spray to remove any light residue.
3. Use a dedicated ceramic/induction cooktop scraper for any stubborn, burned-on spots. Gently glide it at an angle.
4. Wipe dry with a soft cloth to avoid streaks.
Mastering Heat Levels: A Quick Reference Guide
Knowing what power level to use is key to great results.
– Levels 1-3 (Low): Perfect for melting butter or chocolate, keeping food warm, or a very gentle simmer.
– Levels 4-6 (Medium): Your everyday cooking range for sautéing vegetables, frying eggs, or simmering soups and stews.
– Levels 7-9 (High): Ideal for searing meats, bringing large pots of water to a rapid boil, or stir-frying.
– Boost/Turbo (if available): Use for the fastest possible boil. It’s best to reduce to a lower level once boiling is achieved.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a simple appliance, small questions can pop up.
– The cooktop won’t turn on. Check that it’s plugged in and the household circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
– A zone beeps and turns off. The pot may be unsuitable (not magnetic), too small, or not centered properly. It could also be because the pan is empty or has boiled dry.
– The display shows an error code (like F- or E-). Consult your manual. Common ones are for overheating (let it cool down) or electrical issues.
– The glass is hot around the pan. This heat is transferred from the hot pot, not generated by the cooktop itself. It’s normal but be careful.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use my old pots on an induction cooktop?
A: Only if they are magnetic. Do the magnet test. If the magnet sticks strongly, they should work. Many older stainless steel and all cast iron pans are fine.
Q: Is induction cooking safe for pacemakers?
A: Manufacturers generally recommend maintaining a distance of at least 2 feet (60 cm) between a pacemaker and an operating induction zone. Consult your doctor for specific advice.
Q: Why does my induction stove make noise?
A: A faint hum or buzz is normal, especially at high power, caused by the magnetic field. A clicking sound may be the internal fan or electronics. A whistling sound can come from the pan itself if it has loose layers in its base.
Q: How do I clean tough, burned-on stains?
A: Let the area cool completely. Apply a specialty cooktop cleaning cream. Let it sit for a minute, then gently scrub with a non-scratch scrubbing pad. Use a razor scraper held at a 45-degree angle for very tough spots, applying light pressure.
Q: Does it use a lot of electricity?
A: It is actually very energy-efficient. Because it heats the pan directly with minimal wasted heat, it uses less power than a traditional electric coil cooktop to achieve the same cooking result, especially for boiling.
Getting comfortable with your Whirlpool induction cooktop takes just a session or two. Start with simple tasks like boiling water for tea to see how quickly it responds. Remember, the precision is your new best friend—a steady low simmer is easy to maintain. With the right pans and this basic guide, you’ll be using all its features with confidence in no time. Enjoy your new, faster way to cook