Which Ovens Hobs Are Right For You?
Hobs for ovens are a crucial kitchen appliance however it can be a challenge to decide which type is the best for your needs. We'll assist you in making the right decision for you, whether you're considering electric, gas or induction hobs.
Available in a variety of styles, including induction and ceramic domino hobs provide the flexibility of cooking. Select between one or two zones of heat and mix the models to meet your requirements. For instance ceramic sections can be combined with a separate section for gas.
Gas
A gas hob is a vital kitchen appliance, providing a range of benefits to both casual and professional cooks alike. This type of hob is well-known for its ability to speed up and its versatility. It uses propane or natural gas to create a flame which is used to heat pots and pans. The design of a gas hob typically has several burners that can be controlled via a knob that allows you to alter the intensity of the flame and its temperature. Gas hobs are an excellent choice for delicate cooking methods like simmering or boiling.
In addition, a gas stove's sleek design makes for a sophisticated kitchen design, and its flat surface makes it easy to clean. Unlike an oven hob gas hobs do not sag into the countertop, which makes it ideal for countertops with smaller spaces. Gas hobs come with a few disadvantages. They require a LPG (liquefied Petroleum Gas) pipeline, and an exclusive fuel supply, which could increase the cost of installation.
Gas stoves are constructed with safety as the top priority. They are fitted with flame failure devices which automatically shut off gas supply if the flame fails to ignite. This feature is essential for homes with pets or young children to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning as well as fire. Modern hobs also come with automatic shut-offs that stop the flow of gas if there is an unexpected electrical surge or short circuit.
Make sure you consult a Gas Safe registered Fitter before purchasing a gas stove to make sure the installation is carried out properly and that your stove conforms to all safety standards. Doing the installation or repair of the gas hob yourself can cause fire hazards, leaks, and health risks.
As a result, it is crucial to think about the long-term costs of a hob before making a final purchase. For example an electric hob can be more energy efficient than a gas hob, since it can transfer heat directly to your cookware. In addition, many electricity-based hobs are equipped with additional features, such as automatic shut-off and pan detection, which makes them safer to use than their counterparts.
Induction
The traditional electric and gas cooktops heat through conduction (which is a hot burner that warms the surface of your pan or pot), induction uses electromagnetism to heat directly the cooking pan. Induction cooktops are able to be heated faster, more accurately and efficiently. This also means less energy is wasted because heat is transferred by the magnetic field to your pan instead of an energized resistance coil.
Induction stoves can be a challenge to master at first. They require a specific type of cookware that's compatible with the heating technology: flat-bottomed ferromagnetic pans and pots. Most modern kitchenware is compatible, however older pans and pots may not work unless you use an interface disk for induction. The interface disk is positioned on top of the cookware to create an electrically charged surface. This lets the burners communicate with the cookware. Induction cooktops aren't as hot to your hands as traditional electric or gas cooktops, but they can cause burns when you are too long on the surface.
Another drawback is that the cookware cannot be placed on the kitchen surface when it's not placed on top of it. This is a security precaution to avoid burning and fires. It's also not possible to accidentally switch on an induction burner when the pan is cooling, like you would with a gas stove or electric oven.
Induction cookers do not release harmful pollutants such as nitrous dioxides carbon monoxide, nitrous dioxide, and formaldehyde when they are switched off. These pollutants can cause worsening of respiratory problems. When paired with renewable energy sources induction cookers are completely emissions-free.
The only drawback is that cooktops with induction technology can emit a whirring sound. This noise is more noticeable when temperatures are higher and may cause interference with digital meat thermometers. However you can minimize it by using large pans with flat bottoms. The hum isn't harmful however it can be irritating for some cooks. Many appliance stores have loaner or showroom kitchens which you can use to test an induction cooktop before purchasing.
Ceramic
The most common type of hob and oven found in UK kitchens is an electric ceramic cooker. They are flush with the worktop, and are covered in glass to give them a sleek, modern look. They are also easy to clean. They have a flat surface, therefore there are no crevices that food could become stuck. A simple wipe is all that's required. They come with a variety of safety features including hot indicators that show when the zones are still hot, and locks that prevent children from using them.
They work by passing electricity through coiled metal parts in the glass that electronically heats up to the desired temperature of your cookware or pan. Although they're not as efficient as induction or gas, they offer a convenient and affordable way to cook. They are prone to scratches when pots or pans are dragged over the surface, however they come with shatterproof safety glasses.
The flat surface of a ceramic ovens hob makes it quick to warm up and cool down since the heat is transmitted through the cookware, not the whole hob. This makes them more convenient to use in a busy household. Ceramic hobs are also known to be more expensive than other types but they are well worth the cost for the design and convenience they offer.
It is essential to keep in mind that regardless of the type of hob you pick it must be based on your personal preferences in cooking and lifestyle. Gas or induction hobs could be better suited to you if you need speed, precision, and energy efficiency. It is also advisable to look at your budget and cookware before deciding what kind of hob to purchase. After this is done then you can start looking for the perfect new hob that is compatible with your oven. Our team of experts is ready to answer any questions you may have. Contact us via email or phone, or go to one of our stores. We offer a large selection of products to help you create your dream kitchen.
Halogen
There's something incredibly satisfying about taking a halogen oven in the kitchen, and watching your food cook quickly under its glowing lid. It's a type of dry heat cooking, which means that it heats the air or food to high temperatures. A Halogen oven can reach these temperatures faster than conventional ovens, usually in just minutes.
They also respond better to temperature variations making them suitable for all types of cooking. For example they excel at roasting and frying, but can also be used to bake and steam. Some models are even capable of infrared grilling, without the smoke and mess of charcoal.
As well as being relatively quick to heat up, a halogen oven is also a lot quicker than a conventional oven and hob at reaching the temperature at which it is most efficient and the power will shut off once it's reached, therefore there's no risk of overheating. The lid is designed to keep heat in place, distributing it evenly and evenly browning food.
Halogen ovens are typically less expensive than a traditional oven and can be purchased for less than PS40. They can be used for anything from frying to steaming, and some models even come with the ability to rotisserie. Many come with glass bowls, which makes it easier to monitor the food, and makes sure that food isn't burning.
There are a few disadvantages to take into consideration when buying an oven that is halogen for example, the bulbs can blow after a while and require to be replaced. Additionally, some models have flimsy stands to support the oven and are easily smashed over by kids or pets.
Another concern is that halogen ovens could produce harmful byproducts during the heating process. These 'process contaminants, comprising acrylamide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons(PAHs) and heterocyclic amino acids (HCAs), can cause cancer to humans. But, if you're cautious to adhere to the guidelines and use the oven with a non-stick pan that reduces these risks considerably. Halogen ovens typically come with a warning label on them, highlighting the dangers and it's important to read it carefully before using the appliance.