A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance that fits inside the cutout of a worktop. It can be electric or gas and can have one to six cooking rings or zones. Its design is modern and is easy to clean.
Smart hobs that can be customized and are compatible with home automation systems are attractive to consumers. They also want to reduce energy consumption and improve hygiene.
Induction hobs
Streamlined and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most popular options for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to electric and gas models that rely on heating plate to warm cookware directly, use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass-ceramic surface are coils that an alternating current flows through. When a suitable pan is placed in the cooking zone, the coils automatically create magnetic fields that interact with the metal within the pan, causing electrical currents and creating heat. This makes induction hobs much more efficient in terms of energy and cleaner than traditional hob types.
Induction hobs are also more user-friendly. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance could be used to control the oven, with an obvious indication of which cookware is in use and what power setting is being used. The control panel can be locked to avoid accidental button pushing. A lot of induction hobs come with a boost function that increases the effectiveness of a cooking zone for a brief period of time to bring a pot of boiling water to heat a pan for searing.
A lot of induction hobs feature an unframed design, with the glass-ceramic surfaces seamlessly integrated into the countertop. Some induction hobs are available in different colors to match the decor of your kitchen. These units also have sleek controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators to indicate power levels or other functions.
To get the most from your induction hob you will need to use induction-compatible cookware. The best way to determine if a pan is induction compatible is to place an iron rod across its base. If the magnet sticks, it's safe to use it on an induction cooker. To prevent over-use of energy, many induction hobs feature pan detection systems that only activates the coils when a suitable pan is available.
Induction hobs are a good option for shared homes or student accommodation since they do not feature an open flame. They are also more secure than gas versions. However, they can produce the sound of ticking or humming in operation, which may irritate certain people.
Gas hobs
A gas hob uses natural gas or liquid petroleum gas to create the flame that cookware is heated, making it ideal for a wide range of cooking techniques. They provide precise temperature control and are faster to heat up than electric alternatives such as ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stand must be cleaned regularly to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Modern gas hob s use electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or continuous flame to ignite the burners and begin the combustion process. They then make use of electrical components, including switches and sensors to regulate the flow of gas through the system and to ensure that the burners are working correctly. They could also have several control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame and the output of heat.
Gas hobs come in different models, ranging from one to six burners. When deciding on the number burners, take into account the dimensions of the pans you will be using. You'll need to make sure you have enough space to accommodate the cookware you'll be using. If you are a frequent cook and stir-fry then you should choose an appliance with a wok burner. Some models also come with grilling elements, so you can make an easy and delicious breakfast or lunch.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing gas hobs is the cost of running it. Gas hobs are generally cheaper to purchase than induction hobs. However hobs oven operating costs can be very different depending on local gas rates and the usage. It's also worth bearing in the mind that a gas hob requires natural gas and ventilation, which may make installation more expensive than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are a great method of combining two appliances into a single unit, reducing space in your kitchen while creating a sleeker aesthetic. They extract smoke and steam through a duct on the stove's surface which allows for more efficient operation than traditional hoods.
Portable hobs
If you require more hob space in your kitchen or you want to take your cooking outside the kitchen, a portable hob could be a great choice. They are designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop and plug into, so they're a breeze to use and take with you when you need to cook somewhere else. They also come in handy in the event that you're planning to renovate your kitchen or simply need an extra space on your hob for busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming more popular in both home and professional kitchens due to their speed, safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They work by creating a magnetic coil with an electrical current running through it, which warms the pan you place on top. There is no wasted heat as there is with a gas or electric hob. This can save you money.
This Belling hob has dual cooking zones and double rings, which means it can be used for a range of pans and pots. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution made it an absolute hit with testers, who appreciated the ability to alter the temperature of the two zones useful. The only downside is that it takes more than 12 minutes for a litre to boil, which can be frustrating for people in a hurry.
If you're looking for a more compact option, this Smeg model might be worth taking a glance. It's thin and light and is less than half the size as some other models on the list. This makes it simple to keep in storage when not in use. The brushed silver finish looks premium and is a little easier to wipe clean than the more shiny finishes found on other hobs.
It's important to note that while these hobs are a convenient alternative to full-sized ones however, they're still hot and can cause burns. We recommend that you handle the hob with care and keep it in a safe location far from children's reach, and away from areas where people might fall over it. A lot of models come with a child-lock, which can be useful when you have children.