The simple way to use a toaster is by pressing the number dial. However, it won’t be as easy as 1-2-3 since this kitchen appliance isn’t that straightforward.
Toasters are one of kitchen appliances on my counter that I have confidence in, most of the time at least. They always seem to break for me because other things don’t work right like blenders not crushing ice or coffee pots starting. Fortunately, toast recipes go beyond breakfast and can be made into many different dishes across numerous categories including desserts!
I toast my bread on the same number setting I do at home. This has happened more than once and always have me wondering, what are toaster numbers? So, I did some research about it.
What Do the Numbers on a Toaster Mean?
Most of us assume that the numbers on a toaster dial relate to minutes, or the length of time your bread spends heating up in the toaster before springing up. While this is true for certain kinds of toaster, it is not always the case.
There are three different types of toasters.
Timer toasters
A mechanical timer regulates the toasting process in a timed toaster. Most timed toasters are very costly, such as this one from SMEG, which ensures that your toast or bagel will pop up automatically when the toasting time is up. Still, knowing that the numbers on your gadget relate to minutes gives you piece of mind.
Capacitor toasters
Capacitor toasters, which are the toasters most of us possess, have a circuit that turns off whenever the capacitor (an energy-storing component within your toaster) reaches a certain voltage. So the numbers on these toasters correspond to a resistance rate, or the amount of time it takes for the capacitor to charge, which affects how long the toast stays in the toaster.
Bimetallic strip toasters
Bimetallic strip toasters are often older versions that operate on a circuit system with a bent strip connecting them. When the temperature becomes too high, the bimetallic strip bends to the point where it no longer connects to the circuit, allowing your toast to escape. The numbers on these models regulate the amount of energy you use; a lower number indicates a stronger electric current, which heats up and cuts off the circuit faster, toasting your bread for only a few seconds.
Are you undecided about which toaster is ideal for you? Based on our Test Kitchen’s professional suggestions, pick the best toaster for your kitchen.
Why Can’t I Make Perfect Toast?
Even if you’ve learned about the many types of toasters and their dial operations, it’ll be difficult for you to toast a slice of bread precisely every time.
The type of bread you use, as well as your toaster, play a role in making the ideal toast. The amount of moisture in the bread affects the final toasted result, and this changes depending on whether the bread is white or wheat, as well as how old the loaf is.
The heat generated by continuous use is also a consideration to consider. If you toast your bread piece by piece for a family brunch, the heat may build up and brown your bread more and more with each toast.
Because toasters are more complicated than they appear, we urge that consumers read the instructions thoroughly. Then go at some of the most typical toaster errors to see if you’re making any of them. If you’re still experiencing issues with your toaster, check out this guide on how to make toast without one.