The Buffalo freestanding 4-zone induction hob is a standalone cooking unit built for commercial kitchens that want the operational benefits of induction without committing to a fixed suite installation. Each zone operates independently, giving chefs simultaneous control over multiple pans or cooking tasks, and the stainless steel construction is suited to the demands of regular heavy use.Induction works by transferring energy directly into the base of the pan rather than heating the surrounding air. In practical terms, this means faster temperature response during service, quicker recovery between dishes, and a meaningfully cooler working environment compared to gas or radiant electric alternatives. In kitchens where heat management is already stretched, that reduction in ambient output can ease the load on extraction and air conditioning.From a day-to-day operational standpoint, the key advantages include: Lower energy waste relative to gas or conventional electric cooking Faster temperature adjustment during service without lag Cooler kitchen conditions, helping to reduce staff fatigue on long shifts Smooth surface that wipes down quickly between and after service Castor-mounted base allowing repositioning or easy access for deep cleaning The open base beneath the cooking surface also offers useful incidental storage — a practical consideration where floor and surface space is tight.This unit runs on a three-phase 400V supply, which is standard in most well-specified commercial kitchens. Any site not currently wired for three-phase will need electrical work carried out before the unit can be installed, so it is worth confirming your supply with a qualified electrician before ordering. The freestanding format suits kitchens that reconfigure regularly — event caterers, supper clubs, and temporary or pop-up setups — as well as established sites looking to add induction capacity without a full suite refit. For operations running continuous heavy service across a greater number of zones, a larger configuration may be worth exploring.If you would like to talk through whether this unit is the right fit for your kitchen's layout, power supply, or service demands, our team is glad to help before you make a decision.