53
The first choice you need to make is whether you going to use a cooktop that is built into a counter, or a drop-
in range. Or, are you going to use an induction cooktop that sits on the counter, a countertop range?
The next decision you need to make is selecting a properly sized unit. Commercial induction ranges are
available in wattages as low as 300 watts for holding food up to 5,000 watts for stock pots or heavy-duty
cooking. Your perfect size lies somewhere in this spectrum. The tips below should help you choose the
correct size induction unit for your operation.
Vollrath’s Guide to Buying
Induction
Once you’ve decided to use induction in your foodservice operation, selecting a commercial induction range
can be difficult. There are numerous commercial induction ranges available, ranging from low-cost to high-
end full-size models. How do you determine which range is appropriate for your foodservice operation? We
contacted Vollrath, an industry leader in induction, to provide advice on how to choose the right induction
device for your operation.
Drop-In vs Countertop
What size commercial induction range do I need?
What are Induction Drop-in Ranges?
What are Commercial Induction Countertop Ranges?
Drop-in induction ranges are popular because they are built-in to a counter and appear to be
part of the environment. They typically are flush with the countertop, so they are easy to clean.
The controls are mounted into the face of the counter below the countertop, so they are readily
accessible.
Drop-in induction unit cannot be picked up and carried to another room. The unit will only move if
the counter it is built into is mobile. And, if a drop-in unit needs to be repaired or replaced, the unit
usually needs to be removed from the counter.
Induction countertop ranges are nice because they sit on top of the counter and, depending upon
wattage of the unit and weight, can easily be moved from counter to counter giving the operator
flexibility regarding where the unit is used. Countertop units vary in size, the biggest concern
for an operator is setting the cooktops on a counter height that allows for comfortable cooking.
Countertop ranges are also very easy to repair or replace.
Ranges