See what an induction cooktop really saves compared with radiant electric and gas, how fast it boils water, what circuit it needs and when the higher price pays for itself.
≈85%Induction
≈74%Radiant electric
≈40%Gas
Your numbers
Typical cooking: 1.0–2.0 kW.
1 therm ≈ 29.3 kWh; 1 m³ ≈ 10.5 kWh.
Boil test and wiring
Yearly running cost for the same cooking
Induction–
Radiant electric–
Gas–
Saving vs radiant / year–
Saving vs gas / year–
Payback vs radiant–
Payback vs gas–
Speed and wiring
Boil time – induction–
Boil time – radiant (1.8 kW)–
Boil time – gas (≈8,500 BTU)–
Max current / breaker (125 %)–
Assumptions: induction 85 %, radiant 74 %, gas 40 % efficiency; open pot, no lid. Results are estimates, not a quote. Confirm electrical work with a licensed electrician.
Is an induction cooktop worth it?
Induction cooktops use a rapidly changing magnetic field to heat the pan itself instead of heating a burner or a flame. Because almost no energy is lost to the surrounding air, they boil water noticeably faster than radiant electric and gas, respond instantly when you turn the power down and keep the surface cooler. The price is a higher purchase cost and the need for magnetic cookware.
What the calculator compares
You enter the average power your cooktop draws while you cook and how long you cook each day. The tool converts that into the useful heat that reaches your food at 85 % efficiency. It then calculates how much electricity a radiant cooktop (74 %) and how much gas (40 %) would need to deliver the same heat. Finally it multiplies by your local prices. This is a fair way to compare, because it uses the same cooking result for all three technologies.
Who benefits most
Situation
Expected result
High electricity price, low gas price
Savings may be small or negative versus gas; induction still wins on speed and air quality.
Replacing radiant electric
Almost always cheaper to run, with a clear payback if you cook daily.
Rooftop solar or time-of-use tariffs
Induction pairs well because cooking energy is electric and efficient.
Small kitchen or household with children
Cooler surface and no open flame improve safety and comfort.
Features that matter when you shop
Power sharing: pairs of zones share a limit, so two large pans may run below maximum power.
Booster mode: temporarily raises one zone to 3–3.7 kW for very fast boiling.
Flexible or bridge zones: let large griddles and oval pans sit across two coils.
Precise low settings: look for true simmer and melt functions, not just on/off cycling.
Noise: some cookware hums or buzzes at high power; heavy flat bases are quieter.
Cookware and installation
A pan works on induction if a magnet sticks firmly to its base. Cast iron, carbon steel and most magnetic stainless steel qualify; aluminum, copper and glass do not unless they have a magnetic base plate. Installation needs a dedicated circuit, often 40 A at 240 V for a full-size four-zone unit. The calculator shows the current at full load plus a 25 % margin so you can discuss the requirement with your electrician.
Pacemakers and safety
Induction fields are generally considered safe, but people with implanted medical devices should keep a safe distance as advised by the device manufacturer and ask their doctor. Pots also stay hot after cooking, so heed the residual-heat indicator.
Frequently asked questions
Why is induction more efficient?
The heat is generated inside the pan, so very little is wasted heating the cooktop surface or the air around it.
Can induction save money if gas is cheap?
Sometimes not on running cost alone. Enter your own prices – the calculator will show a negative saving honestly. Speed, safety and indoor air quality may still matter to you.
What happens during a power cut?
Induction needs electricity, so it will not work without power, unlike some gas burners that can be lit manually.
What size pan do I need?
The base should cover most of the zone; very small pans may not be detected. See our companion tools for cookware matching.
About InduSense
InduSense is an independent, free website that helps shoppers and home cooks make better-informed decisions about choosing and running an induction cooktop. Our calculator uses published physical constants, widely used industry rules of thumb and the numbers you enter. We do not sell appliances, and no manufacturer pays us to favor a brand.
Every calculation runs directly in your web browser. The values you type are not sent to our servers and are not stored by us.
We review the formulas and guide text regularly and update them when standards, typical product specifications or energy prices change.
Contact
Questions, corrections or suggestions for a new calculator? Email us at info@food-preparation-devices.shop.shop. We aim to reply within a few business days. We cannot give personal electrical, gas or purchasing advice, but we are happy to fix errors in our tools.
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Last updated: October 19, 2026
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Disclaimer
Results are estimates based on the inputs you provide and on simplified assumptions. Real appliances vary by model, installation, cookware, food, local energy prices and usage habits. Nothing on this site is professional electrical, plumbing, gas-fitting, safety or financial advice. Installation, circuit sizing and gas connections must be carried out by a qualified, licensed professional in accordance with local codes and the manufacturer's instructions. InduSense is provided "as is" without warranties, and we are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of the information on this site.