There are three key types of electric cookers on the market that incorporate ring elements, ceramic elements and simply 
a ceramic top. Each type have their own benefits, however all will at some point get dirty and require some cleaning. Unfortunately cleaning electric cookers isn’t always the easiest task and can become a bit of a chore. The tips provided below should go a long way to making the job quicker and easier for you.
Ring elements
The more traditional ring elements are perhaps the most difficult to clean. These electric cookers usually consist of four rings containing electric elements which are heated as electricity runs through them. Typically most households will only use two of these rings unless they have guest around; then they may use all of the rings. It is often the case that once the rings that are usually not required are turned on that they begin smoking quite badly. This is due to fat that has splashed on them during previous cooking.
The most effective way to stop this from occurring is to use pan lids during cooking wherever possible. Alternatively you can place some kind of cover over the unused rings, such as empty aluminium pie tins.
Ceramic elements
Due to the fact that the discs are made from ceramics; these models are a little easier to clean then metal elements. The best approach with these kinds of electric cookers is to stay on top of them and clean after each use. Use a cloth to give them a wipe when you have finished cooking.
Give the ceramic discs a thorough clean every week or two. This can be done by giving them a gently scrub with a wire brush. Clean away any residue by using a cloth soaked in vinegar, which is great for cutting through grease.
Ceramic tops
This type of electric cookers is very similar to the previous example, although the ceramic elements are placed under a glass top. As the rings heat up the heat is transferred through the glass and to your cooking pans.
Ceramic tops are the easiest of the three model types to clean. Again the best way is to keep on top of them as you are cooking and wipe after each use. Due to the fact that the surface is glass, you should try look to clean them before they cool down fully and grease and food particles have time to set. Usually a cloth with water will do the job fine. However, for harder to budge stains you can again use vinegar.
Universal cleaning tips:
- Alcohol or white spirits can be used to clean electric cookers instead of vinegar. If you do decide to use it then be sure that the appliance is turned off and cooled down to minimise fire risk.
- Ammonia mixed evenly with water can also be used to clean oven tops. The risk here is that fumes can be quite nasty, so be sure that the oven is switched off during cleaning and also wash off thoroughly with water afterwards.
- If your electric cooker contains stainless steel parts that are starting to look a little tired there is a simple way to give them a facelift. Use a small amount of baby oil and give the steel a good polish, which should leave it looking as good as new.
Janice Pike is a part time dental assistant and full time mum of three. In order to run her busy life Janice has to make sure that all her chores are carried out with maximum efficiency. She hopes her tips on cleaning electric cookers help you out.
