Customer questions and answers

• I'm intrigued by the removable handle, but I'm concerned about its security. How safe and stable is it, especially when lifting a full pan?
  The Ingenio Preference removable handle is engineered for exceptional security and peace of mind. It features a patented, super-secure locking mechanism that attaches firmly to the pan's rim. This universal handle has undergone rigorous internal testing, demonstrating its ability to safely hold an impressive weight of up to 10 kg, far exceeding the typical weight of a pan full of food. This robust design ensures stability and confidence when lifting, carrying, or pouring from the pans. The handle is designed to be universal, meaning the single handle included in your 3-piece set is compatible with both the 24 cm and 28 cm frying pans, allowing you to effortlessly switch between them as needed. This system truly simplifies cooking by providing a secure grip only when you need it.

• The description mentions going from hob to oven. What are the maximum oven temperatures these pans can withstand without the handle, and can the handle go in the oven too?
  Yes, the Ingenio Preference pans are designed for seamless transition from hob to oven, significantly enhancing your cooking versatility. Once the removable handle is detached, the pans themselves are fully oven-safe. High-quality non-stick pans without their handles are typically safe in ovens up to 250°C (480°F). This allows you to start a dish on the stovetop, like searing a steak, and then finish it in the oven, or even bake casseroles and gratins directly in the pan. It's crucial to remember that the removable handle itself is NOT oven-safe and must always be detached before placing the pan into a hot oven to prevent damage to its plastic components and locking mechanism.

• What specific type of non-stick coating is used on these Ingenio Preference pans, and what are the best practices for cleaning and maintaining it to ensure it lasts for years?
  The Ingenio Preference pans feature a high-performance, durable non-stick coating designed for effortless food release and easy cleanup. While the specific proprietary name isn't detailed, it's a premium, PFOA-free coating, typical of high-quality modern cookware, ensuring healthier cooking with less oil. To maximize its longevity, always use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils, avoiding metal ones that can scratch the surface. For cleaning, allow the pan to cool completely before washing. Handwashing with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge is highly recommended over dishwashing, as harsh detergents and high temperatures in dishwashers can gradually degrade the non-stick properties over time, reducing its lifespan and effectiveness.

• My kitchen cupboards are already overflowing. How much space can I realistically expect to save with the stackable Ingenio Preference design compared to my current traditional pan set?
  The Ingenio Preference's stackable design is a true game-changer for kitchen organization, offering significant space savings. Unlike traditional pans with fixed handles that awkwardly jut out, these pans nest perfectly within each other once the handle is removed. For example, a typical stack of two frying pans with handles might require a cupboard height of 20-25 cm and a width of 30-35 cm. With Ingenio, the two frying pans can stack neatly into a footprint barely larger than the biggest pan itself (28 cm diameter), and a combined height of perhaps 10-12 cm, saving you up to 50% or more in vertical and horizontal cupboard space. This frees up valuable real estate in your cupboards, drawers, or shelves, making your kitchen feel much more organized and spacious.

• I have an induction hob, and I've had issues with some 'induction compatible' pans in the past. How well do these Ingenio Preference pans perform on induction, and are they equally efficient on other hob types?
  The L97493 Ingenio Preference pans are engineered with a robust stainless steel base, ensuring exceptional performance across all hob types, including induction. Their full induction compatibility means they heat up quickly and distribute heat remarkably evenly across the entire cooking surface, eliminating hot spots and ensuring consistently cooked meals. This efficient heat transfer also contributes to energy savings, as less energy is wasted. Beyond induction, they perform equally well on gas, electric, ceramic, and halogen hobs, providing versatile and reliable cooking results no matter your kitchen setup. You can expect precise temperature control and excellent responsiveness on any heat source, making them a truly universal solution.

• The Thermal Signal sounds useful, but how accurate and reliable is it? Does it work for all cooking methods, and how quickly does it respond?
  The integrated Thermal Signal temperature indicator is a highly reliable feature designed to take the guesswork out of pre-heating. Located in the center of the pan, this innovative zone features a distinct pattern that changes color. When the pan is cold, the pattern is clearly visible. As the pan heats up and reaches its optimal cooking temperature – typically around 180-200°C (350-390°F) – the Thermal Signal turns a uniform, solid dark red. This visual cue instantly tells you the pan is perfectly pre-heated and ready for ingredients, ensuring ideal searing, frying, and browning results every time. It's particularly useful for delicate items like eggs or for achieving a perfect crust on meats, ensuring consistent and delicious outcomes.

• The 3-piece set includes two frying pans. Can I purchase additional Ingenio Preference saucepans, woks, or glass lids separately to build a complete set around this system?
  Absolutely! The L97493 Ingenio Preference 3-Piece Pan Set is part of a comprehensive, modular Ingenio system. This means you can easily expand your collection beyond the included 24 cm and 28 cm frying pans. There's a wide range of compatible Ingenio Preference items available separately, including various sizes of saucepans, woks, sauté pans, and essential accessories like glass lids (which often feature foldable handles for continued space-saving), plastic airtight lids for fridge storage, and additional removable handles. This modularity allows you to customize and build a complete cookware set tailored precisely to your culinary needs, all while maintaining the benefits of stackable storage and versatile hob-to-oven functionality.

• Are these pans dishwasher safe, or is handwashing recommended for the non-stick coating and overall durability? What about the removable handle?
  For optimal longevity and to preserve the high-performance non-stick coating, handwashing is strongly recommended for your Ingenio Preference pans. Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth after the pans have cooled completely. While the pans themselves might technically be dishwasher safe, the harsh detergents, high temperatures, and abrasive action of dishwashers can gradually diminish the non-stick properties and dull the exterior finish over time. The removable handle, with its intricate locking mechanism, should always be handwashed only. Never immerse the handle in water for extended periods or place it in the dishwasher, as this can affect its functionality and durability, potentially compromising its secure grip.

• Given the premium nature, what kind of durability can I expect from the non-stick coating and the removable handle? Is there a warranty that covers these components?
  The Ingenio Preference pans are built for impressive durability, featuring robust stainless steel construction that ensures long-term performance and resistance to warping. The high-quality non-stick coating is designed to withstand daily use, providing easy food release for many years when properly cared for (as per cleaning instructions). The removable handle is particularly robust, tested to hold up to 10 kg, signifying its exceptional strength and longevity. While specific warranty details can vary by region, Ingenio typically offers a generous warranty on its products. For instance, the non-stick coating often comes with a 2-5 year guarantee against manufacturing defects, while the handle mechanism can carry an extended warranty, sometimes up to 10 years, reflecting confidence in its patented design and superior engineering.

• I'm considering several high-end non-stick induction sets. What makes the L97493 Ingenio Preference set stand out from competitors, particularly regarding its unique features?
  The L97493 Ingenio Preference set truly distinguishes itself from other high-end non-stick induction cookware through its unparalleled versatility and innovative design. While many sets offer non-stick and induction compatibility, Ingenio's patented removable handle system is its core differentiator. This allows for seamless transitions from hob to oven, table, and fridge, eliminating the need for multiple dishes and simplifying your cooking process dramatically. Combined with the brilliant space-saving stackable design, which frees up valuable kitchen real estate, and the intuitive Thermal Signal temperature indicator for perfect pre-heating, Ingenio offers a level of convenience, efficiency, and professional results that few competitors can match. It's not just cookware; it's a complete culinary system designed for modern living.