Electric Hot Plates

3 products

Electric hot plates are a practical solution when you need an extra cooking zone or a portable cooktop that can move wherever you need it. They plug into a standard power point, require no installation and can be used in a kitchen, caravan, office or outdoor entertaining area. At Bing Lee we stock single and double-zone electric hot plates from a range of brands. Our FAQs below cover the key things to know.

FAQs

1. What is an electric hot plate?

An electric hot plate is a small, portable cooking appliance with one or two heating zones that plugs into a standard power point. Unlike a built-in cooktop, it sits on the benchtop and can be stored away or taken with you when not in use. Hot plates use either a coil element, a ceramic radiant element or an induction zone to heat cookware. They are a popular choice for caravans, student accommodation, small kitchens and as a backup cooking zone when you need an extra burner.

2. What is the difference between a coil, ceramic and induction hot plate?

A coil hot plate uses an exposed metal coil that glows red when heated. Simple, affordable and works with any cookware. A ceramic hot plate has a flat glass surface with a radiant element beneath it, which is easier to clean and looks neater. An induction hot plate uses electromagnetic technology to heat the pan directly, making it the fastest, most efficient and safest option. Induction hot plates require magnetic cookware (cast iron or stainless steel), while coil and ceramic models work with anything.

3. How do I choose the best electric hot plate for my home?

Think about where and how you plan to use it. If you want a clean, easy-to-clean surface for regular home use, a ceramic or induction model is a better choice than a coil hot plate. If portability and budget are the priority, for camping, a caravan or a granny flat a compact coil model is hard to beat for simplicity and price. A double-zone hot plate is worth considering if you often need two cooking zones running at the same time.

4. How much power does an electric hot plate use?

A single-zone hot plate typically draws between 1000-1500 watts, while double-zone models can use 2000-3000 watts when both zones are running. For reference, a standard Australian power point handles up to 2400 watts on a 10-amp circuit. Most single-zone and some double-zone hot plates are fine on a standard outlet, but it is worth checking the wattage on the product specifications to be sure. Running two high-power appliances on the same circuit at once can trip a circuit breaker.

5. Are electric hot plates suitable for a caravan or motorhome?

Yes, portable electric hot plates are a popular choice for caravans and motorhomes, particularly when parked at a powered campsite. Induction models are especially good for this use since they are fast, efficient and safe around confined spaces. Just be mindful of the power draw and confirm that the site or your inverter setup can handle the wattage before relying on a high-power model.