A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance in the kitchen that is a cutout on the worktop. It can be gas or electric, and can come with up to six cooking rings. It is easy to clean and has modern design.
Consumers are interested in smart hobs that can be integrated with home automation systems, and also offer different options for customization. They also want to lower energy consumption and improve hygiene.
Hobs with induction
Induction hobs which are elegant and efficient are a preferred option for modern kitchens. In contrast to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to warm cookware, induction stoves employ electromagnetic technology to heat the pan itself. Under the glass-ceramic top, coils are used to run an alternating current. When a compatible pan is placed in the cooking area the coils create magnetic fields that interact with the metal in the pan, generating electrical currents and generating heat. Induction hobs are more energy-efficient than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction hobs also have a more user-friendly design. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance could be used to control the oven, with an easy-to-read display of what cooking equipment is in use and the power setting being used. The control panel can be locked to stop accidental button pushing and many induction hobs have an increase function that boosts the effectiveness of a cooking zone for a brief time period to bring the water to the boil or heat a pan for searing.
A lot of induction hobs feature frames that are not visible, and the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly incorporated into the countertop. They typically come in black, but some have different colors that be matched to your kitchen's decor. These units also come with minimalist controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators that show the power level or other functions.
To maximize the performance of your induction cooker, you'll need to use induction-compatible cookware. The best way to check if a pan is induction compatible is to run a magnet across its base; if the magnet is able to stick it's safe to use it on an induction cooker. A majority of induction hobs come with a pan detection system to avoid overusing energy. The coils will only be activated when the pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs are ideal for shared households or student accommodation, as they don't have an open flame, and are safer than gas models. However, they do make an eerie ticking or humming sound when they are operating, which can be a nuisance to certain people.
Gas hobs
A gas hob uses natural gas or liquid petroleum gas to create the flame that heats your cookware, making it ideal for a variety of cooking methods. They provide precise temperature control, and are faster to heat up than other electric alternatives, such as ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stands need to be removed frequently to ensure that everything is clean.
Modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or a continuous flame to ignite the burners and start the process of combustion. They then use electrical components, like sensors and switches, to control the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners work properly. The burners may also have numerous control knobs to adjust the intensity of the flame and output of heat.
Gas hobs are available in various models, with one to six burners. Be aware of the size of your pans when deciding the number, as you'll want to make sure there are enough burners to accommodate all the cookware you plan to use. If you are a frequent stir-fryer then choose a model that has a dedicated wok burn. Some models come with griddle elements included, which means you can make a delicious and quick breakfast or lunch.
The cost of running a gas hob is a crucial factor when deciding on one. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to purchase than induction hobs. However, operating costs can be very different depending on the local gas rates and use. It's important to keep in mind that a gas hob requires a natural gas supply and ventilation, which could make installation more expensive than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs integrate two appliances into one, saving you space and giving your kitchen a more modern look. They pull smoke and steam through a duct in the hob's surface, allowing them to work more efficient than traditional hoods because they're able to capture steam at the level of cooking instead of letting it rise and spill out into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is an excellent option if you're looking to increase the space in your kitchen or want to cook outside. They are designed to connect to the kitchen worktop, making them easy to use. You can also carry them with you when you want to cook elsewhere. They also come in handy in the event that you're planning to renovate your kitchen or simply require some extra hob space to accommodate busy times.
Induction hobs are increasingly popular in both kitchens for both home and professional use, because they are quick, safe, efficient and easy to clean. They function by creating a magnetic coil, with an electrical current flowing through it, which heats the pan that you place on top. There is no wasted heat, as it is when using a gas or electric hob. This can save you money.
This Belling hob features dual cooking zones and double rings, which means it can be used to cook a range of pans and pots. Its intuitive interface, good heat distribution, and the capability to change the temperature between the two zones made it a favorite among test subjects. The only issue was that it took over 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which can be a hassle for those who are pressed for time.
This Smeg model is a good choice for those looking for a compact model. It's light and thin - less than half the size of the other models on this list - which Best place to buy oven and hob makes it easy to store when not in use. The brushed finish appears more premium and is easier to clean than other hobs with a shiny finish.
It's important to keep in mind that while these hobs are an excellent alternative to larger ones but they're still extremely hot and can cause burns. It is recommended that you handle the hob with care and keep it in a safe place, away from children's reach and from areas where someone could fall over it. Many models come with a child lock, which can be an excellent feature when you have children.