Which is better - tempered glass or glass-ceramic? This question is asked by many consumers before buying a hob. It is quite difficult to choose between these materials. They are both environmentally friendly, have good wear resistance and a long service life. Comparison of tempered glass and glass ceramics is based on application and technical specifications.
Features of glass ceramics
The production of household appliances is constantly being improved, new technologies and materials are being introduced. With the advent of glass-ceramic panels, the functionality of kitchen equipment has expanded. They are made from a composite material (glass and clay).
Glass-ceramic panels are produced by melting raw materials at high temperatures. The result is incredibly heat-resistant products that are twice as hot as tempered glass.
The material was received relatively recently, at first it had a rather narrow application -it was used to make mirrors for telescopes. Then it was noticed by plate manufacturers and successfully introduced into the technological process. Now glass ceramic plates are the most popular.
Pros and cons of glass ceramic hob
The surface of the cooker made of glass-ceramic looks modern and stylish. The glossy surface blends in with the countertop for a compact kitchen appliance effect.
The material is safe, resistant to high mechanical loads, immune to temperature changes, has a very high heat resistance. Despite the fact that the glass-ceramic coating is more expensive, such stoves justify themselves. Proper operation and proper care allow them to work for over 20 years.
The disadvantages of the material include a high price. It may also be scratched by sharp objects.
Tempered glass feature
To obtain it, ordinary glass is tempered at a temperature of 600 ° C, and then quickly cooled. As a result, it becomes seven times stronger than usual, and the thickness remains the same. Outwardly, it does not differ from simple, but the properties of tempered glass allow it to withstand high temperatures (up to 160 ° C). On impact, it does not break into fragments, but is covered with cracks, so it is often used in children's rooms.
Tempered glass is also used for the manufacture of shop windows, windows, furniture. It is used for glazing facades of buildings, wintergardens and greenhouses.
Advantages and disadvantages of the material
Tempered glass gas hob features good heat resistance, relative flexibility, high impact resistance. If you break the panel, it will not shatter into fragments, but will be covered with a network of cracks, so such a surface is not traumatic. Among the shortcomings, it is noted that chips and scratches can form on the edges of the coating from strong mechanical stress. Tempered glass is difficult to machine (cut, drill).
Customer Reviews
The appearance on the market of plates with a modern coating caused a lot of controversy about what is better - tempered glass or glass-ceramic. Consumers have made a choice based on their capabilities, but in favor of a stylish and easy-to-care new equipment. According to customer reviews, the new plates are much more convenient than appliances with a traditional coating. They look very modern and stylish. In addition, they are easy to care for, for this you can use home remedies:
- Baking soda. Wet powder is applied to the contaminated surface. After a while, it is removed with a soft cloth.
- Vegetable oil. Creates a protective film on the panel. Wipe the surface of the stove with a cloth dampened with a small amount of oil.
- Detergent liquid for dishes. They are great for removing grease from the glass panel.
Rulesoperation
In order for the glass-ceramic coating to serve for many years, you need to know a few rules. It requires dishes with a smooth and even bottom, the diameter of which should not be less than the burner. This provides the best heat transfer. If a hotplate is left open, it can overheat and shorten the life of the hob significantly.
It is necessary to ensure that solid particles (sand, s alt, abrasive detergents) do not get on the hob. They may damage the glass surface.
The glass surface of the stove must always remain dry, do not put pots with a wet bottom on it. Care must be taken to avoid splashing acidic and s alty water.
Glass-ceramic panels are perfectly flat. These surfaces are not obstructed, so any escaping milk or meat broth may drip onto the floor.
Stove Care Tips
Which is better - tempered glass or glass-ceramic in the care of the hob? Both materials showed approximately the same labor costs.
For care, you should purchase a scraper and a special detergent. All this can be found in the salons selling household appliances. Sometimes they come with the stove.
Scrapers are made from different materials. Plastic products are inexpensive, but they will not last long. It is better to buy a steel scraper, outwardly it resembles a razor. Includes several detachable blades.
Special product for glass ceramics effectively removes grease stains, food residues on the panel, limescale. Afterits application forms a thin protective film on the surface, which protects the glass and facilitates the further maintenance process.
Before washing the panel, it must be completely cooled. After cleaning, all traces of detergent must be removed, as when the stove is turned on, they can begin to corrode the glass surface.
It is not recommended to wipe the stove with a sponge for washing dishes, there are always traces of grease on it. When the stove is turned on, they will burn out and the surface will become discolored.
Do not use stain removers or oven metal cleaners for cleaning. If it is not possible to purchase a special product (and it is not cheap), you can use glass cleaning gels to care for glass ceramics.
Having studied all the properties of materials, you can easily understand what is better - tempered glass or glass ceramics. Which panel to prefer for your home is up to the owner to decide, based on their interests and financial capabilities.
