In the '60s NASA developed a new technology for cooking that allowed astronauts to heat meals in space without the danger of open flames or ultra-hot surfaces. This new "no-heat heating" uses an electro-magnetic coil to create a magnetic field that heats a metal pan bottom when it comes in contact with the cooking surface. It is known as "magnetic-induction cooking." The magnetic field by itself generates no heat. Electric currents move molecules in the food like microwaves do, causing foods to heat while the cooktop remains cool to the touch. Magnetic induction cooks three times faster than gas, and uses half the power of electric stoves. These units already are out and popular in Europe, where natural gas is expensive. They'll probably take a little longer to catch on in the U.S.A. Even though they're high-tech and high-style, they're still pricey for most homeowners, costing well over $5,000, at present. But prices are expected to drop in the near future and maybe some day soon you'll not be cooking with gas. And that's the On The House tip for today.