Hot Plates

About Hot Plates

Small kitchen appliances save precious hours that would have otherwise been spent in chopping, slicing, mixing, and more. And sometimes they help out of the kitchen, too.

Portable hot plates are convenient appliances that can replace a traditional stove when needed. They can cook a meal, keep it hot for an extended period of time, or warm a cold dish. These small cooking units are excellent for use in offices, small cooking spaces, or any place without a traditional kitchen. Moreover, they come in handy when an extra cooktop spot is required. 

Commercial cooktop versions of these portable units are also available. Their design is suited for catering and other kinds of professional use.

Types

Hot plates can be divided into three basic categories, distinguished by the type of heating: gas, electric or induction. Each class has a specific set of advantages.

Gas Hot Plates

Gas hot plates require no electric outlet in order to work, often using propane fuel bottles as a power source. For that reason, these models are popular as camping accessories. Gas hot plates deliver more consistent cooking results than electric-heated versions. Some commercial gas hot plates come equipped with cast-iron grates for easier cleaning.

Electric Hot Plates

This type typically features one or two electric burners. A traditional visible coil burner heats fast and fits better with heavy-bottomed pots. Some models also feature glass covering for easier cleaning and maintenance. 

An integrated coil comes with a flat burner. It provides uniform cooking results but also takes longer to heat.

Induction Hot Plates

Induction hot plates are fast and don’t need a source of ambient heat to work. Instead, they rely on the electromagnetic field and require specialised cookware suited for use with induction heating; such as nonstick pots with magnetic bottoms and stainless steel. Some induction hot plates come with one fitting pan.

Hot Plates Power

Depending on the size, electric hot plates range from 750 to 1,800 watts of power. Burners type and amount are also determining factors.

Single vs. Multi-Burner

Single burners are a good solution for individuals and couples with low usage demands. This kind of portable electric cooktop is lightweight and easy to transport and store.

Most multi-burner hot plates allow for simultaneous preparation of several dishes, such as grilling meat and cooking vegetables at the same time. However, some double hot plates come with one regular heating burner and one serving only as a warmer. 

Surface Material

Several plate types are available, including coil, glass, and cast iron. The choice of suitable cookware heavily depends on the surface material.

• Traditional coil surfaces require some maintenance efforts. 
• Glass and glass/ceramic look stylish and are easy to clean and maintain.
• Cast-iron cook surfaces are excellent for grilling. 

Heat Controls

Hot plates come with a number of different control options. Most common models are equipped with mechanical knobs for temperature adjustments, while some higher-end units come with digital displays for precise heat administration. 

Things to Consider When Choosing a Hot Plate

Heating type and temperature control are features that cooking enthusiasts should consider, as well as the number of burners. Moreover, portability may be a significant factor for campers, or anyone looking for a hot plate mainly for outdoor activities. A gas-powered hot plate, combined with manual food processors and stovetop kettles make a whole portable kitchen that easily travels between locations. 

Stability is essential when it comes to dealing with hot surfaces and liquids. Portable cooktops are designed as low-profile and stable, but some additions can raise the safety game to another level. Heavy stainless steel bodies supported by slip-resistant feet add more weight to the base, ensuring that the unit will stay put. 

Some hot plate models feature an automatic shutoff function, also called auto-pan detection. It detects when the surface is free with no pot on it and reacts by turning the appliance off. 

Overheat protection is a safety feature often found on double hot plates. It activates when both burners are engaged to prevent the appliance from exceeding its maximum wattage.  

Child safety locks that prevent the kids from turning on the burners unnoticed.

If you need assistance to find the right hot plates for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.