Types of ovens (linked site) and Hobs
The type of cooker hob that you choose can have a big impact on the amount of energy you'll use. There are a variety of models that will meet your needs and cooking preferences:
Plate hobs are four rings that appear like hot plates but contain an electric coil underneath. They heat up quickly and provide good heat distribution for flat-based pans.
Range cookers
A range cooker is an oven and hob which is freestanding. It usually has several oven cavities, a variety of burners and grills. A popular alternative to built-in ovens and stoves They are available in a variety of sizes and sleek designs that fit various kitchen designs.
Typically available in electric or gas, the choice you make will depend on your cooking needs and budget. Generally, dual fuel range cookers are preferred as they offer the best hob uk of both worlds - gas hobs that heat up quickly and are easy to control, as well as efficient electric ovens with more functions and settings.
A lot of range cookers have a storage drawer below the hob. This is ideal to store baking trays or roasting dishes out-of-sight. The drawer can also be used to store stoneware, pots and pans so that you can make space in your cabinets. There are cookers that come with an integrated sink that can help you cook food and make cleaning easier.
Choose a range cooker equipped with a self-cleaning oven when you cook for large numbers or host dinner gatherings. This feature is super easy to use and makes use of high temperatures to break up leftover food residue. The residue is then burned off at the surface, leaving lighter dust.
Some models have an integrated grill, which is great for adding a little extra crunch to oven-cooked meals. They're also ideal for quick snacks such as cheese on toast and crumpets.
The majority of range cookers come with an efficient wok burner, which is a major benefit for those who enjoy Asian inspired food. You can also find cookers that have separate hotplates and griddles for searing meat and cooking vegetables. Based on the model you pick it could also come with additional features, such as an oven that can be programmed with multiple settings, including base heat only as well as fan assisted the rotisserie setting.
If you're looking for a stylish and contemporary design that doesn't take up a lot of space in your kitchen, you should look for a sleek stainless range cooker made of steel. You can choose from a variety of colours to match your cabinets' doors, worktops and accessories. Certain range cookers come with an integrated vent that helps eliminate cooking odours, resulting in a fresh and clean kitchen.
Built-in ovens
A built-in wall oven is designed to integrate with your kitchen cabinetry, or wall, to give an aesthetically pleasing appearance. They are often placed at eye level, so you can keep an eye on your food preparation and avoid burns and other mishaps.
A high-end, energy-efficient built-in oven could last 15 years or longer. However, their lifespan can differ greatly based on the amount of use they receive and the frequency of maintenance and care. It's recommended to consult with an experienced technician for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure your oven is working as efficiently as it can.
Alongside offering a modern, sleek aesthetic, built-in ovens come in a wide variety of cooking options, from convection to steam. These advanced features can elevate your kitchen to the next level, making your cooking a lot easier and more practical.
Built-in ovens can be used with an integrated hob to make the perfect kitchen setup for your home. StovesAreUs offers a variety of premium hobs that will match your kitchen's design and layout, regardless of whether you are looking for gas or electric hobs.
A double integrated oven, also known as a built-in dual oven provides a wide range of options for your kitchen. They can be installed at eye level or under a counter and feature an entire multifunction or fan over a smaller, more economical traditional oven, with grill element. Many double ovens are available with additional storage space, such as baking trays, roasting tins or catalytic liners that soak up grease, making cleaning your oven much easier.
A high-quality, stylish and modern built-in stove can bring value to the property and make it more attractive prospective buyers should you decide to sell. However, the decision to buy the latest kitchen appliance is based on your personal preferences and budget, as well as the layout of your kitchen.
All-in-one cookers
All-in-one cookware is the ideal solution for those looking to have a single kitchen appliance that can do it all. Also known as multi-cookers these models can combine the functions of a slow cooker pressure cooker, rice cooker air fryer, sous vide equipment, and even food processor in one neat and tidy package.
They are ideal for making rich soups and risottos because they stir at the same time that they heat, helping to create the creamy texture. They can also steam veggies or fish, and are great for making healthy smoothies and yogurt. However, they aren't ideal for browning meats as a slow cooker or a pressure cooker.
The best all-in one cookers have a range of settings which permit you to modify the cooking process to suit your ingredients and cooking method. This makes them an excellent option for those who want to cook with less hands. The cheapest models are typically equipped with basic features, but there are also more expensive models with a lot of extras.
All-in-one cookware is typically a freestanding appliance, so they consume more space than a combination of an oven and a stove. They have two ovens and hobs that have a capacity of about 60 litres. They also have four or six hob rings or plates, depending on the model.
A new generation of all-in one cookers has taken the market by storm with a range of additional functions. Thermomix for instance, is a combination of a food processor and a slow cooker into a single device. This German-made machine can chop and cook as well as knead. It comes with a variety of automated programs, such as heating sugar for frostings and cooking sous vide. It's a smart investment however, at more than $1500, it's certainly not inexpensive.
Gas is the most well-known option for those who are buying an all-in-one cookware. It can help them save money on their energy costs. This is because it is more efficient in heating than electric models which can be costly to run. All types of pans will work with them, and many also have the option of a grill.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs, as their name suggests, utilize electromagnetic induction technology to heat cookware directly and cook food. This minimises the transfer of energy to the cooking surface, which reduces energy consumption, and makes the appliances safe to touch without retaining heat. They also are sleek and modern in appearance that blends well with contemporary kitchens.
However this technology isn't without its disadvantages. Induction hobs aren't as easy to clean like gas models and require compatible cookware. The magnetic induction field emits low-level electromagnetic waves in the kilohertz frequency range, which can be detrimental to health. This radiation level can be decreased by a minimum distance of five to ten centimetres and by ensuring the right pan is used on a cooking area that is active.
There are several types of induction hobs offered by different manufacturers, each with different capacities and features. The basic model has four rings that can be operated separately. The power levels can also be adjusted by using a simple control. Make sure to touch the mark that represents the ring you'd like to operate, and then tap the + or - buttons or slide your finger along the corresponding 'power bar' to select the appropriate setting.
Induction hobs typically have a bridging space that allows you to connect two or more rings to create an even larger cooking surface. This is a great option for larger pots that don't fit into individual rings. Some models have a wok setting that offers additional heating power for woks. Other hobs have a 'free-standing' option that can be placed on a smooth, flat worktop to save space.
Some models have a digital display that displays the current power level of each ring, while others feature a dial or rotary control that requires you to twist and press your fingers to adjust the settings. You can also pick from a range of power outputs for each ring, and some hobs feature an auto-restart feature which will bring the appliance back to the cooking mode after a brief time.