Cooking and Heating Equipment

Choose the right tool for the portion

A full-size oven, a rice cooker, an induction hob, a microwave, and a toaster oven do different jobs. Compare the appliance's rated power together with the time needed for the actual portion—not wattage alone.

While cooking

• Use cookware that matches the heating area and sits flat when the appliance requires it.
• Cover pots when the recipe allows so heat and moisture stay where they are useful.
• Prepare ingredients before switching on equipment and avoid repeated preheating.
• Use residual heat only when the appliance and recipe make it safe.
• Cook compatible items together when capacity, timing, and food safety allow.

Keep equipment working well

• Keep heating surfaces, seals, vents, reflectors, and cookware clean and undamaged.
• Stop using equipment with damaged cords, plugs, controls, glass, or unusual heat, smell, or sound.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for ventilation, compatible cookware, clearance, and cleaning.