Install an induction hob: what you need to know first
To install an induction hob properly, preparation comes before plugging anything in. First, check whether your electrical installation can handle the load. An induction hob draws more power than a standard electric hob, so both the circuit and the cable must be rated accordingly.
Check the rated power shown on your hob's rating plate. If it reads 1500 W, a standard earthed socket (230 V, 16 A) will suffice. At 2500 W or more, a heavier circuit is recommended – if in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.
What you need for a safe installation
- An earthed socket (type F or type E/F combination)
- A circuit breaker of at least 16 A (for 1500 W) or 16–20 A (for 2500 W)
- A flat, stable and heat-resistant surface
- Sufficient clearance around the hob (min. 10 cm on each side)
Avoid using an extension lead. Use the supplied cable where possible and plug directly into a wall socket. This prevents overloading and overheating of the cable.
How to install an induction hob step by step
- Check the packaging: remove all packaging materials and inspect the cable for damage – make sure it is fully intact before proceeding.
- Choose the right location: place the hob on a dry, flat surface. Keep it away from water sources and ensure no flammable materials are directly beneath or beside it.
- Check the socket: the socket must be earthed. Not sure? Use a socket tester (available at any DIY store) to confirm the earth connection.
- Plug in the cable: insert the plug into the earthed socket. Never pull on the cable itself and do not force the plug.
- Run a first test: switch the hob on, place a compatible pan on the cooking zone and select a low power level. If the hob detects the pan and starts heating, the installation is complete.
Which pans work on an induction hob?
An induction hob only heats pans with a magnetic base. Hold a magnet to the bottom of your pan: if it sticks, the pan is compatible. Cast-iron pans, stainless-steel pans with an induction base and enamelled pans generally work well. Aluminium and copper without a special induction base will not work.
The base of the pan must be flat and have a diameter of at least 12 cm to activate the cooking zone correctly.
Is it safe to install an induction hob yourself?
An induction hob fitted with a standard plug can be installed yourself by connecting it to an earthed socket, just like any other kitchen appliance. No concealed wiring is required. Risk only arises if you use an unearthed socket, an undersized cable, or if you are installing a built-in hob that requires fixed wiring – in that case, hire a certified electrician.
Common mistakes when connecting an induction hob
- No earth connection: the hob may still work, but you have no protection in the event of a short circuit.
- Using an extension lead: a standard extension lead is rarely rated for the power draw of a hob and can overheat.
- Switching on immediately after transport: let the appliance rest for 30 minutes after being transported in the cold, so any condensation can evaporate.
- Wrong pan: no magnetic base means no heat – the cooking zone will display an error message or remain inactive.
Which bakeVIA hob suits your situation?
If you cook for one or have limited counter space, a compact single hob is the practical choice. If you regularly cook for several people or want to prepare two dishes at once, a double hob offers greater flexibility. bakeVIA sells both models directly through its own online shop.
Browse the overview on the hobs page to compare which model suits your kitchen. If you want to go straight to a specific model, you'll find the bakeVIA single hob 1500 W and the bakeVIA double hob 2500 W each on their own product page with full specifications.