Frigidaire FCRG3062AS Complete Owners Guide - Page 14

14 BEFORE SETTING SURFACE CONTROLS Using Proper Cookware The size and type of cookware used will influence the heat setting needed for best cooking results. Be sure to follow the recommendations for using proper cookware as illustrated in "Figure 2: Testing cookware" and "Figure 3: Proper cookware". Check for flatness by rotating a ruler across the bottom of the cookware (see "Figure 2: Testing cookware"). Cookware should have flat bottoms that make good contact with the entire surface of the heating element. Figure 2: Testing cookware Cookware Material Types The cookware material determines how evenly and quickly heat is transferred from the surface element to the pan bottom. The most popular materials available are: • Aluminum - Excellent heat conductor. Some types of food will cause it to darken (Anodized aluminum cookware resists staining and pitting). • Copper - Excellent heat conductor but discolors easily (see Aluminum). • Stainless - Slow heat conductor with uneven cooking results. Durable, easy to clean, and resists staining. • Cast Iron - A slow heat conductor, but will retain heat very well. Cooks evenly once cooking temperature is reached. • Porcelain-enamel on metal - Heating characteristics will vary depending on base material. • Glass - Slow heat conductor. • Flat bottom and straight • Curved and warped pans. sides. • Tight fitting lids. • Weight of handle does not tilt pan. Pan is well balanced. • Pan sizes match the amount of food to be • Cookware larger than element by more than one-half inch or 12mm. prepared and the size of the surface element. • Made of material that • Heavy handle tilts pan. conducts heat well. • Easy to clean. • Always match pot diameter to element size. • Pan is much smaller than the element. Figure 3: Proper cookware IMPORTANT Do not place empty aluminum, glass, or porcelain-enamel coated cookware on the element. The melting point of cookware made with these materials may be reached quickly, especially if left empty. If the cookware melts it will damage the cooktop. Follow all the cookware manufacturer's recommendations for use and care of cookware. IMPORTANT NEVER place or straddle a cooking utensil over two different surface cooking areas at the same time. Incorrect use may damage the cooktop.