Even when an electric stove is set to a low temperature, there can still be heat coming off the stove for several reasons:
Heat Retention: Electric stoves have heating elements (coils or smoothtop surfaces) that retain heat even after you reduce the power or turn them off. The elements take some time to cool down completely, so there will be residual heat emanating from them even when the stove is set to a low setting.
Thermostat Functionality: Electric stoves use thermostats to control the temperature. When you set the stove to a low setting, the thermostat maintains the element at that temperature by turning it on and off intermittently. As a result, the element may still be producing heat, even if it's not at full power.
Heat Transfer: The heat generated by the heating element transfers not only to the cooking vessel (e.g., pot or pan) but also to the surrounding surface of the stove. This heat transfer can cause the surface of the stove to remain warm even after you lower the heat setting.
Insulation: Some electric stoves are designed with insulation or materials that can retain and radiate heat, even at lower settings. This is more common in higher-quality stoves, where the insulation helps maintain consistent cooking temperatures.
Radiation: In addition to conduction (heat transfer through direct contact), electric stoves can also emit radiant heat. The heating elements can radiate heat energy, contributing to the warmth felt around the stove.
Ventilation: The design of the stove's ventilation system can also impact how much heat is released into the surrounding environment. In some cases, the stove's ventilation may not be as efficient at dissipating heat, leading to a warmer cooking area.
While these reasons explain why there can still be heat coming off an electric stove when it's set to a low temperature, it's generally not as intense or sustained as when the stove is operating at higher settings. It's always important to be cautious and aware of the residual heat to avoid burns or accidents, especially if you have small children or pets around the stove. Additionally, always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and safety recommendations for your specific stove model.