FAQ
TL;DR: On single‑phase 230 V, 16 A = 3.6 kW; "limit the power in the menu." Four zones will power‑share, so no all‑burner boost. Consider upping supply or using 3‑phase for full output and safer wiring. [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]
Why it matters: For apartment dwellers and renovators limited to 230 V, this FAQ explains realistic performance, safe hookup, and model expectations.
Quick Facts
- Single‑phase 16 A circuit ≈ 3.6 kW total available to the hob. [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]
- If obtainable, single‑phase 25 A ≈ 5.7 kW, but it’s harder to get. [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]
- Typical 4‑zone hobs are ~7.2–7.4 kW; full use expects multi‑phase supply. [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]
- Example zone wattages: 2300, 1800, 1400, 1800 W; boosts: 3600, 2800, 2500, 2800 W. [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]
- Real cooking: two pots at full ≈2.5 kW; four zones at medium ≈2.4–2.8 kW total. [Elektroda, Barthezz1976, post #17219507]
Can I get a 4‑burner hob that runs fully on 230 V/3.6 kW?
Not for full simultaneous output. Typical four‑zone hobs are 7.2–7.4 kW. Single‑phase 16 A supplies only 3.6 kW. Many models let you set a power limit in the menu. That keeps the total within your circuit capacity. Expect power sharing across zones when several burners are active. “A 4-burner single-phase induction hob with 3.6 KW is unlikely to be found.” [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]
What happens if I connect a 7.4 kW hob to one phase?
You will not get full performance. Boost on all four zones will not engage. The hob will limit or cycle power between zones. The author warns against this setup on 230 V. He notes it is workable only with two burners. Ensure a proper separate wired connection. Avoid ad‑hoc one‑phase hookups on two‑phase rated plates. [Elektroda, siudziu, post #17097892]
Will power‑boost work on all four zones on single‑phase?
No. With a 3.6 kW cap, the hob blocks or shares boost across zones. You can boost one zone, but enabling more zones reduces each zone’s power. Expect slowdowns when three or four zones run together. This is the trade‑off of single‑phase operation. It “will not start the power boost on 4 burners.” [Elektroda, siudziu, post #17097892]
How much power does everyday cooking actually draw?
Typical full power on one field is 1.2–1.5 kW without boost. Two pots at full power draw about 2.5 kW combined. Four fields at medium (level 4–5) use roughly 600–700 W each. Total draw stays well under 3 kW. For most daily cooking, a 3.6 kW limit works fine. These figures come from wattmeter checks. [Elektroda, Barthezz1976, post #17219507]
I have 3‑phase in the kitchen—what’s the best way to connect things?
Use two phases for the hob and the third for the oven. That gives the hob higher available power and keeps the oven independent. You unlock full performance from both appliances. “If you have 3 phases, you give two to the plate and the third to the oven.” [Elektroda, Szyszkownik Kilkujadek, #17101718]
Can I apply to increase my power allocation or add phases later?
Yes. You can request a higher allocation from your utility. Be ready for installation changes or replacement to meet requirements. This enables higher current or multi‑phase service for full hob performance. “You can apply for an increase in the power allocation, but the installation will definitely be replaced.” [Elektroda, niewolno2, post #17097988]
How do power limiters in the hob menu actually work?
They set a global cap for the hob. One burner can run at full power. When you enable additional zones, the hob reduces or cycles power to stay within the set limit. This protects your breaker and wiring. “Limiting the power will cause that 1 burner will work at full power… the sum will be limited to the value you set.” [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]
Should I hardwire the hob without a plug?
For fixed installation, many recommend a junction box and 2.5 mm² conductors. Avoid plug connections for high continuous loads. Set the power limit to match the circuit rating. A 4‑zone hob is typically 7.2–7.4 kW, so plan wiring accordingly. This keeps connections solid and heat low during long cooks. [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]
Is using a heavy‑duty plug ever acceptable?
Some installers prefer a robust plug for quick disconnection. The reason is practical. A PE‑to‑phase fault with a single RCD for the flat can trip everything. A plug lets you isolate the hob fast after a trip. This is installation‑dependent, not a universal rule. [Elektroda, Zbigniew 400, #17268545]
Does the hob need its own breaker or RCD?
Yes, give the hob a dedicated circuit breaker. That way other loads stay up if the hob trips. “The induction should be on its own (separate) circuit breaker.” This improves selectivity and safety. Share an RCD only when your design and code allow. [Elektroda, Szyszkownik Kilkujadek, #17269359]
How important is correct installation and ventilation?
Critical. Poor installation causes overheating and power throttling. One technician notes many units are installed wrong by furniture fitters. Always follow ventilation clearances in the manual. Proper airflow prevents thermal limits and nuisance shutdowns. You may not need premium gear if the basics are correct. [Elektroda, PBK, post #17268311]
Are budget models like Amica PI6512 good enough?
They work, but there are trade‑offs and known issues. A contributor cites a single 30 A transistor stage, pulse heating, and basic control. The touch panel uses sponges and can throw ER22 errors. These reflect cost‑cut design choices. Mid‑tier models tend to be more robust. [Elektroda, Barthezz1976, post #17268372]
What do ER22 or EA errors indicate on some hobs?
They point to faults that can be difficult to repair. One repairer saw units with persistent EA errors and unresponsive controls. In several cases, the main processor failed. He judged those units less reliable than some older brands. Diagnose thoroughly before replacing parts. [Elektroda, Barthezz1976, post #17281868]
Can Bosch or Electrolux hobs run on a single 230 V phase?
Yes. Contributors confirm these brands offer boards that can be powered from one phase. Check manuals for single‑phase wiring diagrams. Expect power sharing when capped at 3.6 kW. Multi‑phase connections enable full output when available. [Elektroda, Szyszkownik Kilkujadek, #17097852]
How do I set up a 230 V hob safely? (3 steps)
- Hardwire via a junction box with 2.5 mm² conductors on a 16 A circuit.
- In the hob menu, set the power limit to 3.6 kW (or 16 A).
- Test single and multiple zones to confirm sharing and that the breaker holds. [Elektroda, ps2505, post #17220161]