IH cookers and microwave ovens are very common in modern kitchens. Both use electricity, but their heating mechanisms are completely different. Many people also worry about electromagnetic waves and human health.
In this article, we explain in simple English:
- Why water boils on an IH cooker
- The difference between an IH cooker and a microwave oven
- Whether IH cookers affect the human body
1. Why Does Water Boil on an IH Cooker?
Short Answer
An IH cooker heats the pot itself, and the heat from the pot boils the water.
How It Works
- Electricity flows through a coil inside the IH cooker
- The coil creates a changing magnetic field
- When an iron or magnetic stainless-steel pot is placed on top, an electric current (eddy current) is generated in the pot
- Because of electrical resistance, the pot becomes hot
- Heat moves from the pot to the water, and the water boils
The important point is that the cooker does not get hot — the pot does.
Why Special Pots Are Needed
IH cookers work only with materials that react to magnetism, such as:
- Iron
- Magnetic stainless steel
Aluminum, copper, and glass do not work well with IH cookers.
2. Difference Between an IH Cooker and a Microwave Oven
Although both use electricity, they heat food in very different ways.
What Gets Hot?
- IH cooker: Heats the pot → heat moves to food
- Microwave oven: Heats the food directly
Energy Used
| Item | IH Cooker | Microwave Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Type of energy | Magnetic field (low frequency) | Microwaves (high frequency) |
| Where heat is generated | Pot | Inside food |
How a Microwave Oven Heats Food
Microwaves make water molecules vibrate very fast. This movement creates heat. Because of this:
- Food can be hot inside but cool outside
- Heating can be uneven
Why Metal Is Dangerous in a Microwave
Metal strongly reacts to microwaves and can cause sparks. This may damage the oven or cause a fire. This is very different from IH cookers, which are designed to heat metal pots safely.
3. Are IH Cookers Safe for the Human Body?
Conclusion
When used normally at home, IH cookers are considered safe and do not harm the human body.
What Kind of Waves Do IH Cookers Use?
IH cookers generate low-frequency magnetic fields.
- They are not X-rays or gamma rays
- They do not damage DNA
- They are different from microwave radiation
Why IH Cookers Are Considered Safe
1. Magnetic Fields Become Weak Quickly
The magnetic field is strongest at the bottom of the pot. It becomes very weak at a distance of 30–50 cm.
2. The Human Body Does Not Heat Up
IH heating works mainly with magnetic metals. The human body is mostly water and does not heat up like a pot.
3. International Safety Standards
IH cookers are designed to meet international safety guidelines, such as those from ICNIRP.
4. Special Cases to Consider
People with Pacemakers
- Strong magnetic fields may affect pacemakers
- Keeping a distance of 30 cm or more is generally recommended
- Always follow your doctor’s advice
Pregnant Women and Children
Current research shows no clear evidence of health risks. As a precaution, avoid standing very close to the cooker for long periods.
5. Common Misunderstandings
- ❌ “IH cookers emit dangerous radiation”
- ✅ “IH cookers use controlled, low-frequency magnetic fields”
- ❌ “Electromagnetic waves stay in the body”
- ✅ “Electromagnetic fields do not accumulate in the body”
Summary
- IH cookers heat the pot directly
- Microwave ovens heat food from the inside
- Their principles and safety characteristics are very different
- IH cookers are safe when used according to guidelines
Understanding the science helps reduce unnecessary fear. Both IH cookers and microwave ovens are designed based on modern scientific safety standards and can be used with confidence.
