What is a Heat Diffuser?
A heat diffuser is an accessory designed to spread heat evenly. Its ability to transfer heat without burning or scorching your food makes it an essential tool in any kitchen. Heat diffusers come in two primary materials – stainless steel and aluminum – and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit most stovetops.
For glass stoves, a heat diffuser works to disperse the heat from a single point of origin, which can cause uneven cooking temperatures and uneven browning. By placing the diffuser between your cookware and stovetop, you are able to obtain an even distribution of heat throughout your pan. This ensures that food is cooked evenly and thoroughly without any scorching or burning.
How Does A Heat Diffuser Work?
Heat diffusers work by absorbing the heat from the burner so the heat evenly distributes to the cookware. The heat diffuser also helps protect your glass stovetop from scratches, dents, and other damage that can occur when using traditional cookware on a glass top stove.
When you place your heat diffuser onto the burner, it will begin to warm up quickly and evenly. You can then adjust the temperature of the burner to the desired setting and place your cookware onto the heat diffuser plate. As you are cooking, the heat will disperse evenly throughout your pan or pot with no scorching or burning of food.
Benefits of Using a Heat Diffuser with Glass Top Stoves
There are many benefits to using a heat diffuser on the glass surface:
- It protects your glass top stove against scratches and damage from traditional cookware. Even for gas stoves, the flames of traditional cookware can damage the glass top.
- It helps to distribute heat evenly throughout the pan or pot, resulting in more consistent cooking temperatures and even browning.
- It helps with energy efficiency, as you are not wasting any heat by having to adjust the burner temperature constantly. This can help both your electric and gas bills
- It is easy to clean and maintain. Materials like stainless steel, aluminum, and tempered glass are all heat-resistant and easy to clean.
- It can be used for slow cooking or simmering food without burning or scorching. Both low heat and high heat settings can be achieved. Heat diffusers also work on different induction ranges, so you can switch it out if needed.
Types of Diffusers That Conduct Heat
By using a heat diffuser on your glass top stove, you can enjoy the convenience of cooking on the best possible surface without worrying about damaging your cookware or the glass top, causing deep scratches on the induction cooktop or any other glass top surface. There are many styles and sizes to choose from, so make sure to find one that fits your needs perfectly.
Here are the types of heat diffusers according to the material:
- Stainless Steel Diffusers: These diffusers provide an even heat distribution that prevents hot spots and scorching. They are also very durable and last longer than other types of diffusers.
- Aluminum Diffusers: Aluminum is a great conductor of heat, so these diffusers provide excellent heat distribution for efficient cooking.
- Tempered Glass Diffusers: These are made of heat-resistant materials, so they will not warp or break down over time. They also provide an even heat distribution that prevents hot spots and scorching.
Here are the types of heat diffusers according to their shape:
- Round Diffusers: These are great for round or oval cookware that can not fit on a traditional square diffuser. They provide excellent heat distribution and even browning.
- Square Diffusers: These diffusers are perfect for square pots, pans, and other cookware. They provide an even heat distribution and help to evenly cook food.
- Rectangular Diffusers: These diffusers are perfect for rectangular or oblong cookware such as lasagna dishes, casserole pans, and other large items. They provide an even heat distribution that prevents hot spots and scorching.
Here are the types of heat diffusers according to the design:
- A thin and perforated design diffuser allows for more airflow and faster heat distribution. This design is great for quicker cooking times and faster boiling.
- A thick and solid design diffuser offers greater heat retention and slower cooking times. It also helps prevent any warping of cookware, which can occur on thin perforated designs.
By using a heat diffuser for your glass top stove, you can enjoy slow cooking at high temperatures and even simmering and browning at low temperatures without worrying about damaging your glass top or cookware. Heat diffusers are a great way to make sure that you get the most out of your cooking experience. Make sure to find one that fits your needs perfectly in terms of both material and shape, so that you can enjoy optimal heat distribution from your glass top stove.
How to Use Heat Diffusers
A heat diffuser is very simple to use. To use it, simply place it immediately over the induction region with the burner off.
- Align the diffuser with the induction area (depicted as a circle on the glass top). After positioning it, set the pot on the diffuser, turn the heat up, and wait for it to get warm.
From the heating element, heat will move through the glass to the diffuser, where it will be distributed evenly, before finally moving into the pot.
- It's also important to keep in mind that employing a diffuser will prevent the food from burning in the middle.
This is because the heat on the induction plate may not be as effective in some older glass stoves with worn-down parts. This implies that the heating coil or element might not heat up uniformly.
- The food will cook differently as a result, especially if you intend to sauté onions. This will cause cold patches and, more frequently, "focused" heating spots. Remember that cooking in general, including shallow frying, necessitates an even heating surface to prevent uneven cooking of your food.
Diffusers are useful in this situation. They control and evenly disperse heat throughout the diffuser, preventing cold spots on the cooking surface.
Naturally, this doesn't entirely solve the issue of malfunctioning stoves, but it certainly makes things a lot better.
Best Heat Diffuser: Out Top Picks
For those of you who have a glass stovetop and have been frustrated with uneven cooking temperatures or scorched food, using a heat diffuser can help solve your problems. This guide has covered the essential information about heat diffusers for glass top stoves, as well as reviews of some of the best heat diffusers available.
We've reviewed a variety of different types, all made with top-notch materials and designed to provide even heat distribution while preventing hot spots or scorching.
Removable Design and Reliable Material: Tescoma Induction Hob Adapter
Simple construction with a handle that can be removed. It has grooves that allow the heat to be evenly distributed. The 17 cm diameter is made of thick stainless steel that can withstand heat up to 300 degrees Celsius.
It has a thin 1/8" thickness. It does rest on three thin legs, but these are really just tiny metal strip that prevents the plate from resting flat on your glass cooktop surface. This product enables you to use pans that don't have induction bottoms.
Pros:
- Easily removable.
- Durable stainless steel material.
- Grooves allow for even heat distribution.
Cons:
- Tiny legs could be a potential hazard if not handled correctly.
Versatile and Portable: Weatherbee Stove Tamer and Heat Diffuser
Control burner heat to avoid hot spots; evenly distribute heat across the bottom of the pan for precise, even cooking; and get rid of burned or scorched food to reduce waste. Using
Weatherbee's Stove Tamer will help you keep food from burning, overbrowning, or boiling over by regulating the heat levels of your gas stove burners. Measures 7 x 6 inches; made of solid aluminum (.125-inch thick); teardrop-shaped for ease handling; die-cut hole for easy moving while hot.
Pros:
- Portable and versatile.
- Easily adjustable heat levels.
- Die-cut handle for easy removal while hot.
Cons:
- Not suitable for very thin cooktops.
Great Quality And Easy To Use: Bialetti Stainless Steel Heat Diffuser
The ergonomic handle riveted in Bakelite ensures a secure and safe grip. The Induction Plate is entirely made of steel, and its high thickness allows perfect heat transmission.
When the coffee is ready, place the product on the induction hob and set the coffee maker on the plate. When the coffee is ready, turn the induction hob off and take the coffee maker off the plate.
A useful and adaptable kitchen tool with octagonal patterns on its surface that can be used with coffee makers and pots on induction hobs. The dishwasher-safe adapter, which works with all the most popular induction hobs for coffee makers (1–9 cups), small pots, and other appliances, can be recognized by the one and only man with a mustache that decorates it.
Pros:
- Ergonomic handle for secure and safe grip.
- High-quality steel material.
- Octagonal pattern surface.
- Dishwasher-safe adapter.
Cons:
- May corrode over time.
Best For Even Cooking: SimmerMat Heat Diffuser
Our simmering and warming plate effortlessly removes hot spots, preventing your food from sticking, scorching, or burning. Utilize our heating plate to improve simmering and cooking.
When used with low heat settings, our stovetop cover offers ideal heat control for slow cooking without the stress and frustration of tainting your culinary creations. Our simmer plate cover will fit your induction stovetop if you have one. You can use glass and clay cookware on a low setting by using our plate warmer and simmerer.
The ideal plate diffuser for all of your cooking needs, our cooking stove heat diffuser plate is expertly crafted from high-quality, zero-carbon steel that is dishwasher safe for your convenience.
Pros:
- Prevents hot spots and scorching.
- Fits all stovetops.
- Zero-carbon steel material.
- Dishwasher safe.
Cons:
- Only suitable for induction stoves.
Easy-to-Clean and Durable: HIC Kitchen Heat Diffuser Reducer
Made of stainless steel, it's extremely durable and heat resistant. The domed disc is easy to clean and provides an even distribution of heat. Multifunctional and easy-to-use, this heat diffuser can be used on both gas and electric stovetops. The anti-slip feet ensure that the plate is secure while in use.
The flat bottom is designed to fit most pots and pans, including induction cookware, making it a great kitchen tool for all types of stoves. Smaller pots like butter warmers and espresso makers can be balanced by slowly simmering sauces and other foods to prevent them from scorching or boiling over. Made of stainless steel; won't scratch surfaces; measures 8.25 x 15.75 inches; removable plastic handle for small storage.
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel construction.
- Anti-slip feet for secure cooking.
- Fits most stovetops and cookware.
- Removable plastic handle for storage.
Cons:
- Not suitable for very thin cooktops.
Best For Gas Stovetops: Daddynme Heat Diffuser
This heat diffuser tray uses conduction technology, which may significantly shorten the defrosting time and speed up the process while maintaining the freshness of the food. There is no need to heat anything up, which can save a lot of time while maintaining flavor.
This plate, which works well with gas burners, can be used as a heat diffuser and defrosting tray. Cooking utensils like cast iron enamelware, copper pots, coffee pots, stainless steel pots, aluminum pots, ceramic pots, and any pans can all be heated using this plate.
This board can efficiently stop soup from flowing into the stove, preventing the need for stove cleaning and the risk of fire. It is practical and safe.
Pros:
- Conductive technology for fast defrosting.
- Works with gas burners.
- Prevents food from spilling over a stovetop.
- Practical and safe to use.
Cons:
- Not suitable for electric stoves.
Best Grip and Perforated Convenience: Norpro Heat Diffuser
The likelihood of burning is almost completely eliminated thanks to the perforations' ability to evenly distribute the intensity of the heat that is directly hitting the pan's bottom.
can be used with either gas or electric stovetops. This flat, metal stovetop tool automatically lowers the flame setting and disperses heat evenly. This is useful when preparing foods that require high heat, such as rice, oatmeal, milk, gravy, and braises. Additionally perfect for melting chocolate and caramel.
It has a wooden handle so you can move it without burning yourself, and it has a leather hang band so you can hang it next to your stove so you can get to it easily.
Pros:
- Perforations provide even heat distribution.
- Can be used on gas or electric stovetops.
- Wooden handle for easy grip.
- Leather hang band for convenience.
Cons:
- Not suitable for induction stoves.
Useful For Daily Use: Ilsa Heat Diffuser
This 7-inch heat diffuser by Ilsa is an excellent addition to any kitchen. It works perfectly with gas, electric, and induction stovetops. This heat reducer efficiently distributes heat evenly throughout the pan, reducing the chances of burning or scorching your food.
Made in Italy from cast iron; measures 7 inches; retractable stainless steel handle for easy storage. Longer handle keeps hands safely away from heat; wipe clean or hand washes in warm, soapy water; and dry completely. It is strong and durable.
A flat cooking surface is produced by Ilsa's Heat Diffuser, which also reduces and distributes heat evenly, gets rid of hot spots in pans, and prevents food from scorching.
Pros:
- Works with gas, electric, and induction stovetops.
- Retractable stainless steel handle for easy storage.
- A flat cooking surface reduces and distributes heat evenly.
- Strong and durable cast iron construction.
Cons:
- Not suitable for BBQ pits.
Best Diffusers: Our Conclusion
A heat diffuser is the perfect way to get the most out of your glass top stove and protect it from damage. Heat diffusers are a must-have for anyone who enjoys cooking with traditional cookware on their glass top stove, as they help to evenly distribute heat and protect the surface of the stove.
We’ve listed some of the best heat diffusers available and explained their pros and cons. Whether you’re looking for a versatile plate that can be used on gas, electric, or induction stovetops, or an all-purpose cast iron diffuser to get the most out of your glass top stove, there is something here to suit everyone’s needs.
Our top pick is the Tescoma Induction Hob Adapter, which features an adjustable temperature setting and is suitable for use on a variety of stovetops. No matter your choice, each of the heat diffusers we’ve listed are guaranteed to help you cook like a pro!
Another easy to use and versatile heat diffusing plate is SimmerMat Heat Diffuser which works with all stovetops, including induction. It's a great choice if you're looking for something to help with your simmering needs.
The most important thing is that you find the product which best suits your needs and provides optimal efficiency when distributing heat. Any of the products we’ve listed will do just that.
