In most Filipino households, stovetops are expected to take a lot of use and abuse. Gas burners can rust and clog, while electric range coils and stovetops scratch and accumulate grime.
Kitchen appliance brand La Germania, which is known for its durability and longevity—so much so it is said they can be passed on from one generation to another—shares five tips on how to keep stovetops in prime condition for years.
Clean it today
Spills and grease splatters can build up over time, hardening into blackened, stubborn spots that clog burner’s holes, initiate rust, and invite the risk of grease fire. Stovetop owners are highly advised to wipe up all spills as soon as possible and to give it a wipe down using degreaser after frying food.
A deep-cleaning session should be done every few months, but being proactive with cleaning also ensures that owners don’t have to do it as often as they would have if they let spills go unchecked.
Use back burners more often
Whenever possible, use the range’s back burners more often, turning in the handles away from the edges to avoid accidentally nudging them. This not only protects the range but also serves as additional protection for anyone who happens to be hanging around the kitchen while someone cooks.
Pick out special pans for glass stovetops
Electric stovetops are usually made of glass and ceramic, and while they are tough, they can get scratched up with the wrong kind of cookware, shortening their usable lifespan. Those with this kind of stove top should avoid very heavy pans and pots that have rough bottoms such as cast iron or ceramic pots with unfinished bottoms.
It is also crucial to remember to avoid placing stirrers and spatulas on them while cooking as they may leave residue that will get burnt into the stovetop, or, in the case of plastic, melt into the surface.
Do a deep-clean routine regularly
Stovetop owners must read through the user manual to learn how to properly deep clean their burners. An open pin or a paperclip is useful for clearing out tiny holes in the burner, a brush for the parts that can be soaked in water and washed, and a soft, non-abrasive cloth for the stovetop itself.
Deep cleaning for glass stovetops, on the other hand, is as simple as washing it with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive cleaning solution.
Know when you need maintenance
Any good brand that has faith in its products will always offer assistance for maintenance and regular upkeep. La Germania, for example, has one of the best after-sales services in the industry, with one main office in Metro Manila and several other service centers all around the Philippines. It also has office service assistance for outdated models.
La Germania advises to always call a service center to replace old and worn out burner tops to extend the overall life of the range. It’s also a must to have the range checked if it has gone through something damaging, like a flood, or if it has been standing idle for a few months.