What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital part of every kitchen. Modern hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They use electric energy however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with almost any cookware. However, they need compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or a ding. The name is also related to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which is a reference to a crag or hill.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits that do domestic chores. They are generally benevolent, but they can also be annoying if they are offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It is believed to cure whooping-cough.
Another common use of the term is to refer to a type of cooking equipment. Hobs are iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface is usually flat, and it is equipped with several cooking elements like rings. In some cases, the hob can be replaced with flat stones to permit it to function as a quoits target.
The earliest documented instances of the term hob date to the 16th century. It was likely used at the same time as the female form, hobgoblin. The word hob is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent appearance hobs are known to play pranks on people. They can be destructive if they are provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry carts on its roof, causing an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. Moreover they can be difficult to work with because of their speed and strength.
While hobs are mostly used in the oven uk however, they can be found in other countries as well. They are available in many forms, such as gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled with just a single button, and are compatible with other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth which makes them easier to use. These types of features are enticed consumers to purchase these devices. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features, such as the lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are famous for their quick heating energy efficiency, as well as precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surface remains cool to the touch and only heats up when in contact with cookware that is compatible. This reduces the chance of burns. The power is also deactivated instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are especially useful in the home where guests and children might be in the kitchen.
In addition, induction hobs oven require less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models come with the 'Stop and Go' function, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting to make it easier when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models have the bridge function that joins two induction cooking zones to create a large zone that is controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pans and pots or odd-sized ones, with the ability to connect multiple zones.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted with simple and intuitive controls that are easy to use and read. Hobs can also be equipped with timers, presets to handle common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs, a Booster function which only uses the maximum power for the specified time, and a soft "bottom heat" to cut down on simmer time and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks and crevices that could collect dirt over time, as with traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with sleek, modern lines that blend with other appliances and décor.
Sensors are employed in hobs oven that have automatic shut-off functions. They check the surface of the hob to detect signs of excessive heat or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs since it mitigates the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to know the cookware isn't in contact with it. This can protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are a variety of different kinds of hob that are available, so it is important to think about the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some features include heat control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of hob you choose will also affect the cost of your kitchen in both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas best hobs create an open flame with natural gas. This heats pots and pans. They are a preferred choice for many home cooks due to their instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used with a large range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Additionally, they may be more susceptible to flare-ups that happen accidentally and fires, so it is important to be aware of the open flame and ensure that the stove is adequately secured with grills that are safe.
Plate hobs, another option for cooking make use of electric elements on the ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based kitchen appliances. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other types of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, however they feature a filament bulb which creates heat on the surface. This makes them more energy efficient than traditional electric hobs, however they aren't as fast to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some offering control buttons that are touch-based, while others come with physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops making use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating and a more evenly distributed heat. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners exposed, making them easier to clean. They aren't as efficient in simmering, and are not suitable for use with heavy-bottomed cooking pots.
Safety
Hobs are a risky part of your kitchen if you don't make the necessary precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not properly cleaning them can result in fires that harm your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are an important cause of kitchen fires.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to be damaged or shatter, which can pose an fire risk. Most hobs have safety systems that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems employ power modulation as well to ensure that the heat output is constant and does not exceed the safe limits. These features help safeguard the hob as well as its components, while making sure that there are no fire hazards on the nearby surfaces in the kitchen.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs, the technology is considered safe to use. These EMF are not as powerful than those produced by mobile phones and the radiation they generate is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types of cookware. It is important to ensure that your pots and saucepans are ready for induction before you begin using them. A simple way to check this is to put an iron near the bottom of the pan. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. A cookware that is not designed for your needs could cause damage to your stove or even cause a fire.
Keep children and others away from the hob when it is being used. The surface can be extremely hot. It is also recommended to use oven and hob gloves when touching metal pan handles since they are extremely hot. It is important to shut off the stove immediately after use, as it may remain hot for a period of time. If a fire occurs and you are in danger, follow the fire services advice - to call 911 and leave your house as soon as you can.