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Use a magnet to find out if a pan will work with your induction stove

Use a magnet to determine if a pan will work with your induction stove.

Alina Bradford CNET Contributor
Alina Bradford has been writing how-tos, tech articles and more for almost two decades. She currently writes for CNET's Smart Home Section, MTVNews' tech section and for Live Science's reference section. Follow her on Twitter.
Alina Bradford
fd-samsung-chef-collection-induction-range-23.jpg

Samsung Chef Collection Induction Range

Samsung

If you have an induction stove, you probably know that induction cook tops use magnetic fields to generate heat. Because of this all pots and pans used on an induction stove top must have a magnetic bottom in order to heat.

Most pure metal pans, such as cast iron, steel and some stainless steel will work with induction stove tops. But, if other materials are blended in, or the pan is made of aluminum, glass, or ceramic, your food just won't cook.

Find out if a pan works with your induction stove

All you need is a refrigerator magnet. Place the magnet on the bottom of the pot or pan and then turn the pot over and give it a little shake. Did the magnet stick? If so, the pot can be used on an induction stove.

It is important to note that the magnet needs to adhere to the pan very well. If it slides off easily, then the pan may not have enough magnetic qualities to work well on an induction stove.

The next time you shop for new pots and pans, be sure to take a magnet with you to the store.