Which is better - tempered glass or glass ceramics? This question is asked by many consumers before buying a hob. Choosing between these materials is quite difficult. Both of them are environmentally friendly, have good wear resistance and a long service life. Comparison of tempered glass and glass ceramics is by scope 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 of composite material (glass and clay).
Glass-ceramic panels are produced by melting raw materials under the influence of high temperatures. The result is incredibly heat-resistant products, which in this indicator are two times superior to tempered glass.
The material was obtained relatively recently, at first it had a rather narrow application - mirrors for telescopes were made from it. Then it was spotted by plate manufacturers and successfully introduced into the process. Now glass ceramic plates are the most popular.
Pros and cons of glass ceramic panel
The surface of the plate, made of glass ceramics, looks modern and stylish. The shiny surface, merging with the countertop, creates the compact effect of kitchen appliances.
The material is safe, resistant to large mechanical loads, immune to temperature changes, has a very high heat resistance. Despite the fact that the glass-ceramic coating is more expensive, such plates justify themselves. Proper operation and proper care allow them to work over 20 years.
The disadvantages of the material include a high price. Also, sharp objects may scratch it.
Characteristics of tempered glass
To obtain it, ordinary glass is tempered at a temperature of 600 ° C, and then quickly cooled. As a result of this, 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). From the impact, it does not break up into fragments, but is covered with cracks, so it is often used in children's rooms.
Tempered glass also goes into the manufacture of shop windows, windows, and furniture. It is used for glazing facades of buildings, conservatories and greenhouses.
Advantages and disadvantages of the material
The tempered glass of the gas hob is characterized by good heat resistance, relative flexibility, high impact resistance. If the panel is broken, it will not scatter into fragments, but will be covered with a network of cracks, therefore such a surface is not traumatic. Among the shortcomings, it is noted that chips on the edges of the coating from strong mechanical stress can form chips and scratches. Tempered glass is difficult to handle (cut, drill).
Customer reviews
The appearance on the market of plates with a modern coating has caused a lot of controversy about which is better - tempered glass or glass ceramics. Consumers made a choice based on their capabilities, but in favor of stylish and easy-to-care new equipment. According to customer reviews, new boards are much more convenient than traditionally coated appliances. 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. With a cloth dampened in a small amount of oil, wipe the surface of the plate.
- Liquid detergents for dishes. They are great for removing grease from a glass panel.
Terms of Use
For a 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 possible heat transfer. If the burner remains open, it can overheat, which significantly reduces the life of the stove.
Care must be taken to prevent solid particles (sand, salt, abrasive detergents) from entering the hob. They can damage the glass surface.
The glass surface of the stove should always remain dry; pots with a wet bottom should not be placed on it. It must be ensured that splashes of acid and salt water do not fall on it.
Glass-ceramic panels are perfectly even. Such surfaces do not have a barrier, so escaped milk or meat broth can drain onto the floor.
Cooker Care Tips
Which is better - tempered glass or glass ceramics 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 salons selling household appliances. Sometimes they come complete with a stove.
Scrapers are made of 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 removable blades.
A special tool for glass ceramics effectively removes stains from grease, food debris on the panel, limescale. After its application, a thin protective film forms on the surface, which protects the glass and facilitates the further care process.
Before washing the panel, it must be completely cooled. At the end of cleaning, it is necessary to remove all traces of detergent, since when you turn on the stove, they can begin to corrode the glass surface.
It is not recommended to wipe the stove with a dishwashing sponge; traces of fat always remain on it. When you turn on the stove, they will begin to burn, and the surface will discolor.
Do not use stain removers or cleaning products on the metal surface of the oven for cleaning. If it is not possible to purchase a special product (but it is not cheap), glass care gels can be used to clean glass.
Having studied all the properties of materials, you can easily understand what is best - tempered glass or glass ceramics. Which panel to choose for your home - the owner decides, based on his interests and financial capabilities.