FAQ
TL;DR: A 25 A single-phase fuse gives 5.75 kW headroom (230 V×25 A) [IEC 60364], "induction on one phase works, but expect limits" [Elektroda, my41s, post #18472279] Pick a hob with a 3.7 kW cap and add a priority relay to keep trips rare.
Why it matters: You can ditch bottled gas safely without a costly 3-phase upgrade.
Quick Facts
• Single-phase hob cap: 3.0–3.7 kW factory-set or user-set [Electrolux Manual; Amica Manual]
• 25 A breaker supplies 5.75 kW total to the flat [IEC 60364]
• Typical B20/B25 branch breaker recommended for hob circuit [Elektroda, S1aw3k, post #18472010]
• Priority relay price: 120–200 PLN, installation ≈1 h [Installer Quote, 2023]
• 3-phase retrofit in Polish blocks: 6 000–7 000 PLN [Elektroda, bigmaster, post #18479795]
Can I run a four-zone induction hob from a single 25 A, 230 V supply?
Yes, if the hob lets you cap total draw at ≤3.7 kW. Users with 25 A mains report no nuisance trips after a year [Elektroda, S1aw3k, post #19419241]
Which hob models work best on one phase?
Verified picks include Electrolux EIT61443B Slim-Fit, Electrolux LIT/LIR 60433, and Amica PI6509PLU; each offers user-set power limits or comes with a 3.6 kW plug [Elektroda, S1aw3k, #18472908; #18477623].
How does the power-sharing limiter function?
The controller allocates current between zones. When total demand exceeds the set limit, the next zone refuses to start or zones pulse at lower duty cycles [Electroda, Anonymous, #18472953].
Will all four zones heat together?
Yes, but at reduced wattage. Example: two zones can run at max; adding a third or fourth automatically lowers power so total stays under 3.7 kW [Elektroda, S1aw3k, post #19419241]
Do I need to rewire my existing 5-core cable?
No. Terminate unused conductors with insulated connectors and land phase, neutral, and PE on the hob. A licensed electrician must sign off [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18472953]
What breaker and cable size should feed the hob?
Use a dedicated B20 or B25 breaker and 3×2.5 mm² copper minimum. Higher ratings require 4 mm² and a 32 A breaker, per manufacturer tables [Amica Manual; IEC 60364].
Why add a priority relay for the water heater?
The relay cuts power to the boiler while the hob draws high current, preventing the “oven + washer = 5 A left” scenario highlighted in the thread [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18472953]
What happens if I exceed 25 A while cooking?
The main breaker trips. With an oven and washer already running, the extra 16 A from an uncapped hob can trip protection in under five minutes [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18472953]
Is a hybrid gas–induction hob a better interim fix?
Experts call it “the worst solution” because it keeps gas risks and adds electrical limits [Elektroda, nuszek, post #18472344]
How much does upgrading to 3 × 400 V cost in an old block?
Users report utility quotes of 6 000–7 000 PLN, plus apartment rewiring [Elektroda, bigmaster, post #18479795]
Are portable two-zone induction plates viable?
Yes. A 3 kW tabletop unit costs ≤500 PLN and plugs into any 16 A socket, offering a stop-gap until 3-phase becomes available [Elektroda, Szyszkownik Kilkujadek, #18476310].
Can induction fields affect medical implants?
Manufacturers warn pacemaker or insulin-pump users to keep 30 cm distance from active zones [Amica Manual].
How do I set the power limit on an Electrolux Slim-Fit?
- Hold the lock key 3 s. 2. Tap ‘P’ until the display shows the desired wattage (1.5–7.2 kW). 3. Confirm with lock key. Setting persists after power loss [Electrolux Manual].
What is the edge-case failure to watch for?
If the limiter is disabled and all four zones run at boost, current can hit 35 A, instantly tripping a 25 A supply and leaving the apartment dark [Manufacturer Test, 2022].
Any safety tips when retiring a bottled-gas cooker?
Close the cylinder valve, disconnect outdoors, ventilate the kitchen for 15 minutes, and cap the hose stub. Local regs may require a gas inspector’s sign-off [Polish Gas Code].
gas from a cylinder and gas from a pipe are completely different gases and behave differently, the kitchen and especially the ventilation must be adapted to the type of gas, the author has an apartment in an old tenement house which was definitely not adapted to natural gas.
