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Induction cooking in your RV

Why it’s worth considering

Induction cooktops are becoming increasingly popular – and for good reason. Let’s explore the key aspects of induction cooking in a motorhome, camper van, or caravan, and help you decide whether it’s the right choice for you.

How does an induction hob work?

Unlike traditional gas or electric cooktops, an induction hob uses an electromagnetic field to heat magnetic cookware directly. This means that the pan becomes the heat source, rather than the hob. As a result, cooking is faster, safer, and more energy-efficient compared to traditional cooktops.

Thetford Topline 902 Induction hob

Why choose an induction hob for your motorhome or caravan?

More and more RV appliances are shifting from gas to electric, including refrigerators and cooktops. This change is largely driven by advancements in battery technology and the increasing use of renewable energy sources, like solar power. But those are not the only reasons to consider induction cooking.
Faster and more efficient cooking

When you’re on holiday, you want to maximise your time relaxing and minimise the time spent cooking. That’s where induction cooking comes in. The induction hob heats up the pan immediately, meaning food cooks faster and more evenly compared to the traditional electric or gas hobs. In fact, water reaches boiling point nearly twice as fast as it would on a gas hob!

Safer cooking on the road

Safety is another aspect that makes induction cooktops a favoured option. Induction hobs don’t heat up unless a suitable pan is detected. Plus, the induction cooking zone cools down quicker compared to cooking zones of cast iron gas hobs. This reduces the risk of accidental burns.

Better air quality inside your RV

Unlike gas hobs, induction cooktops don’t produce air pollution, making them a cleaner and healthier option for the interior of your motorhome or caravan.

Designed for compact spaces

Induction hobs are designed with compact spaces in mind. They are sleek, light-weight, and space-efficient, making them perfect for smaller vehicles, such as camper vans.

Thetford Topline Induction hob built in camper van

What about energy use?

Induction hobs run on a 230V power supply available at most campsites. They typically consume between 1.4kW – 1.8kW. Thetford’s Topline 902 induction hob allows you to adjust the power settings to 6A, 10A or 13A, helping you avoid overloading campsite power circuits. For off-grid RVers, powerful solar panels and battery systems make it possible to cook with induction.

Choosing the right cookware

Not all pans are induction-compatible. Look for cookware with the ‘Class Induction’ symbol and ensure that the base is magnetic. The pan should also match the size of the induction zone for optimal heating. You can find the correct pan size for your particular cooktop in the user manual of your hob.

Thetford Topline induction cooking

Troubleshooting induction pan issues

If your induction hob isn’t working as expected, check these factors:
  • Is the pan induction-compatible? Look for the ‘Class Induction’ symbol.
  • Is the pan the correct size? It should match the cooking zone.
  • Is the pan base magnetic? Use a small magnet to check.
  • Is the pan base completely flat? Warped pans may not work correctly.
  • Any scratches or damages on the cooktop? These can affect pan detection.
  • Still not working? Try a different pan. If no pan works, there may be a technical issue with the hob itself. Contact your nearest service centre if you suspect that’s the case.

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How to clean the induction cooktop?

Induction hobs are easy to maintain:

  • Wipe spills immediately after use with soap and hot water.
  • Use a glass-cleaning cream and clean cloth for regular maintenance.
  • Dry the surface with a soft cloth or paper towel for a streak-free finish.

Thetford Topline induction and hybrid hobs

Is an induction cooktop the right choice for you?

While the induction hob requires compatible cookware and draws a fair amount of electricity, its efficiency, safety and ease of use make it a great choice. Key benefits of induction cooking in your RV:
  • Faster, more efficient cooking.
  • Built-in safety measures for peace of mind.
  • Improved air quality compared to gas hobs.
  • Sleek, lightweight and space-efficient design.
  • Easy-to-clean surfaces.
Would you consider upgrading to an induction hob for your motorhome, camper van, or caravan? Explore the possibilities with the Topline 902 here. Prefer a hybrid option? Check out the Topline 980 Hybrid.