I was gifted my waffle maker 3-1 and love it.  So after 4 years of use the plates have lasted without the chipping some folks have experienced.  I wonder if it is because I wipe it with oil before and after use.  Just a thought.   The down side is cleaning the small nooks under the heating element after a overflow while cooking.  I’ve even warmed up cold waffles on top while new ones cooked.