Salamanders are designed for rapid browning, gratinating, toasting, and reheating food immediately before service. Intense overhead heat creates a crisp finish, melts cheese, and helps complete the preparation of meat, fish, vegetables, and baked goods. The range includes electric, gas, and glass-ceramic versions with a fixed or height-adjustable upper section. Selected units feature independently controlled heating zones, an electronic timer, or a system that activates automatically when a plate is inserted.