The cooling time for an electric stove top can vary depending on several factors, including the specific stove model, the cooking duration, and the heat setting used. In general, electric stove tops take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours to cool down to a safe temperature for touching.
Here are some factors that can influence the cooling time:
Heat setting: If you were cooking at a high heat setting, it would take longer for the stove top to cool down compared to cooking at a lower heat setting.
Cooking duration: The longer the stove was in use, the more time it will take to cool down. Extended cooking sessions generate more heat, which needs time to dissipate.
Stove design: The design and materials of the stove can also impact cooling time. Stoves with better insulation may retain heat for longer, while those with efficient cooling mechanisms may cool down faster.
Room temperature and ventilation: The ambient room temperature and the presence of good ventilation can affect how quickly the heat dissipates from the stove top.
As a general safety precaution, assume that an electric stove top will remain hot for at least 30 minutes to an hour after cooking. To avoid accidental burns, it's best to refrain from touching the stove or placing any items on it until it has had sufficient time to cool down. Some stoves may have indicators to show when the surface is still hot, so it's a good idea to check for these features if your stove has them.