We've just installed this cooktop and haven't been able to test cooking performance but based on value and our initial impressions, the Empava 36 inch induction cooktop definitely earns 5 stars. We're not sure how Empava can offer this induction cooktop for $500 but we're glad they do!
We were looking at 36 inch induction cooktops in the $1400 - $2000 range to replace a warped (!) GE radiant cooktop so finding one for $500 was almost too good to be true. Needless to say, our expectations were fairly low but we were very pleasantly surprised. Not only does the cooktop look good and install easily in the countertop opening and hardwired 220 connection for the original radiant cooktop, it is extremely easy to operate, with logical and responsive controls. Many induction cooktops have separate, small temperature controls for each element, but the Empava uses a single, large slide control with individual icons to select the element. While this does require the user to select a burner location before setting the temperature, the large temp control responds to a single touch or slide, unlike cooktops that require multiple taps of + or - symbols to adjust or turn off an element. It's definitely much more user friendly! The cooktop has all the usual induction features; pause, child lock, cooking timer and power boost. The fans are noticeable but not at all objectionable and induction switching sound is similar to that of a microwave oven (and serves the same temperature control function).
The only negative so far... the brackets supplied with the cooktop are designed for a 30mm or thicker countertop and were too short for our 25mm surface. However, a quick email to Empava customer service confirmed that the brackets were not necessary if the opening was correctly sized and the included heat resistant adhesive backed foam tape was properly installed. (BTW, Empava responded to my email within 12 hours.)
We'll update this review if cooking performance or durability suffers with use, but right now, the Empava 36" induction cooktop is a 5 star plus purchase!!
UPDATE 12/03/2018
We've now used the cooktop for about a year and will NEVER go back to a conventional electric or even a gas cooktop!
Why? Well, temperature control is instant, even quicker than gas because there's no residual heat transfer from burner to pan. There is a learning curve to accurate temperature adjustment but it's not a steep one, just different. Clean up is easy; spills don't burn on, they just wipe away. The glass surface IS a fingerprint magnet but a spray of ammonia based glass cleaner and a quick paper towel wipe does the job in less than 30 seconds.
Combining the real benefits of induction cooking with a relatively low purchase cost, this Empava cooktop really is an unbeatable value!
UPS delivered this yesterday at 4 p.m. By 6 we were cooking dinner on it and can't be more pleased with the performance and value. This was a replacement for an over $1500 GE 36in induction cooktop that didn't even last a year. This Empava is less than half the price and has many more features. For example:
A "hold warm" function for each of the five burners
A "boost" function, that really does speed up the heating process
A timer function for each burner
A clock timer
A child protection lock
And all burners are adjusted by one easy slide finger touch control
Another reviewer commented that this model does not look as good as more expensive brands, but I disagree. It looks great!
On an additional note, I ordered this on Monday, was scheduled to receive it on Thursday (you know Amazon Prime- so much for guaranteed two day shipping) but actually received it the day after the order - Tuesday. Since it was shipped from the company's site, I can only credit them for the quick service.
The cooktop was also very well packaged and arrived in great shape. Instructions were clear and it was very easy to install - only a few edges to shave off the counter top.
Absolutely love this Empava cooktop and am so impressed with the price. We did also purchase the extended warranty to be on the safe side, but even with that added expense this was great value.
Of course, we've only cooked dinner and breakfast on it so far. If we have any problems, I'll update.
Like the other review I was very skeptical due to the price and there is almost no information about the manufacturer available. With the low price I decided to buy the square trade warranty with it just in case and give it a shot. Installed the cooktop over the weekend without issue, easy to install ( same issue with brackets but was able to work around that ). Cooktop is easy to operate and seems to do everything I expected. Quality seems reasonable so if it holds up over the years then we made a great purchase
Ive been having this cooktop for a couple months now so I can give u an accurate description on the item. It cooks really well and was fairly simple to install but i am a contractor so I cant say about anyone else. If you have ever replaced an appliance u shouldnt have an issue with this. It was my first induction and i took a chance onna brand ive never heard of bc the price obviously. Some of the burners dont seem to get real hot with certain enamel cast iron pots, everyother kind of pot they all work great with. It gets to boiling or frying within a minute which is very impressive!!!! The only thing i have noticed is it scratches a little easier than i would have thought. My home is under construction so my kids are putting everything on it to make food so that could be why. If you have a small kitchen I would suggest making or buying a cover if u want to stay scratch free. I made one and i posted some pics. I also love the controls, its so much easier to keep clean without knobs and it looks 100% better without them
I liked this item from the very first time I read a review but still was skeptical about the cooktop because of the inexpensive price. I have been using the cooktop for a little over a week now and it is really terrific and well worth the price.
Feature Product
- The flawless Empava smooth tempered glass surface allows for effortless cleanup, manufactured without the release of hazardous metals into the ground
- Hot surface indicator - an "H" will appear in the surface cooking area display as long as any surface cooking area is too hot to touch
- 9 heat level settings allow range from melt to rapid boil, digital touch controls lets you accurately control your heating
- Specifications - this cooktop features two 2100-watt element, a 2100-watt element and two 1500-watt element
- Empava appliances designs the highest quality cooking experience, our induction cooktops, gas cooktops and wall ovens are fully equipped for safety
Description
The Empava brand 36 in. Induction Cooktop combines the power of Induction with the easy clean-up of electric to give you the utmost cooking flexibility. Induction cooking is 70% more efficient than gas and offers more responsive, exceptional temperature control at low and high heats, so it is gentle enough to melt chocolate and powerful enough to boil water. And because heat is generated directly in the cookware, the cooktop stays cooler to the touch, making it safer and easier to clean. Induction elements are compatible with most stainless steel and cast iron cookware. If a magnet sticks to the bottom of a pot or pan, it is induction friendly. Empava products offer the best in contemporary design matched with the latest in appliance technologies to transform the way you live.
Got this for my wife to replace an older 36" Whirlpool Electric Cooktop, near last item on our farmhouse kitchen remodel. Install was ridiculously easy except that it was 2 cm over my previous cutout, but can't complain about that - quick grind down.
When done, worked beautifully. I was hesitant to write a review until we really put it through testing with our summer/fall canning. Pickles are done, did a slow pasteurize process at 180-185 degrees using range of 6 on the slider and leaving it. That level of ease is important to me, coil electric is too unreliable and we don't have gas here. Lesson learned - old school canning pots may not have the "smooth" surface you thought they did before you tried... not the fault of the stove manufacturer.
The surface doesn't get hot... Placing paper towels UNDER a pan of cooking bacon with no heat mark is so odd, but it works so well.
All in all, it is a DEFINITE BUY!
Works great, but still bought the extended warranty
Great product, installed without a hitch. Great price. Boils water faster than my electrical kettle. You need to have steel pots and pans, so no aluminum.
Controls need getting used to. It has a lock feature to make it child safe which can be annoying if you are not aware of it, but really no big deal.
Works very well. Amazing for the price when you compare it to other induction brands. Took us through very heavy cooking times through the holidays and worked like a charm!
Measurement online not correct but beautiful product. Don’t cut the hole until it arrives OR you will need a trim kit.
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