Types of Oven Hob
A hob is a flat, elevated surface that heats pans and pots. There are a variety of hobs, such as gas, electric and induction.
Features to look out for include touch, rotary and controls for position. These controls allow you to control heating zones by pressing a button. They also prevent them from being knocked down easily, particularly if they are used by children.
Ceramic Hobs
Ceramic hobs offer style and function in a modern kitchen. The glossy surface is susceptible to damage from food residues and scratches. Keeping your hob clean with regular cleaning and avoidance of using scrubbers or abrasive cleaners is essential to keep it in good condition and functioning effectively.
These hobs are heated by passing an electric current through coiled components hidden beneath the glass surface that generate heat when they are activated through control knobs. Some models have radiant elements that emits heat across the glass surface. Other models use halogen elements which are much more powerful and can heat the entire surface in a series of pulses, making them particularly suitable for quick cook times.
Many of our ceramic hobs have advanced safety features such as residual heat indicators that warn you when the surface is hot to the touch to avoid burns. Some ceramic hobs have child locks that stop children from accidentally altering the settings.
For maximum performance, it is important to use appropriate cookware with your ceramic cooktop. It is essential that your pans have flat bottoms, as this promotes even heating and prevents hot spots that can cause food to be overcooked or undercooked. Also, avoid drag pans across the kitchen surface, as this can scratch the glass.
For greater flexibility when cooking it is recommended to use ceramic hobs with dual ring design or 'I-Flex' zone that can accommodate either two pots in a single or one large pan (you'll need to have a minimum 30cm sized pan for it to register). We also have models that have a booster burner for rapid heating of specific zones or pots - ideal for stir-fry and searing steak. Certain models come with an automatic shut-off function which shuts off the stove at a specific time to prevent overheating. This is a great security feature to have for peace of mind. This feature is activated by pressing 'Power' on the control panel once the appliance has reached its maximum temperature.
Gas Hobs
Gas hobs, also known as gas stoves or cookers, are kitchen appliances that use natural gas that is flammable or LPG, which is liquefied. (LPG) for their fuel. The flame is used to heat both the cookware and the surrounding air. This allows for fast cooking and precise temperature control. The design of the elevated gas hob adds safety because it prevents the body from coming into contact with the flame, thus reducing the risk of burns. This elevated construction does require extra care when using or cleaning the hob in order to avoid spilling liquids onto the burners.
The burners of a traditional gas stove are controlled manually and lit with a match. Modern models feature an automatic igniter, which makes sure that the gas is ignited automatically. The flame can then be controlled through the control knobs which makes it easy to adjust the heating level according to the need. Based on the model, a few gas best hobs are also equipped with multi-flame burners for increased cooking flexibility.
Gas hobs require a consistent gas supply, which can be a problem when you live in a place that has a non-reliable or unstable supply. Gas hobs also require regular maintenance to prevent the risk of corrosion and leaks. Gas hobs should only be installed by Gas Safe registered Fitters who can ensure that the installation is safe and adhere to strict safety guidelines.
Gas appliances are still popular in certain areas, even though electric and induction hobs have gained in popularity. This is largely due to consumer preference and concerns about the environment and local energy prices and availability. As a result, it is crucial to evaluate your kitchen's utility costs and infrastructure before choosing a model of hob.
Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a favorite among our clients who want a sleek, clean-looking kitchen. Magnetism is employed to heat the pans rather than an evaporating surface or burning gas beneath. Copper coils are positioned beneath the glass ceramic surface. A current of alternating electricity is pushed through them. When an induction-compatible dish or pan is placed over the cooker, the coils locate its magnetic base and heat the pan or pot directly. This is much more efficient than traditional gas hobs and more energy efficient too. The glass-ceramic surface remains cool to the touch and is also easy to clean.
Induction hobs are designed to be less difficult than gas hobs to clean. A simple wipe using a damp cloth is all you require to keep your induction hob looking as good as new.
Induction cooking requires that you make use of the appropriate cookware. All cookware, including cast iron stainless steel, non-stick and cast iron ones, need an iron base that is magnetized. If you're not sure whether your existing cookware is induction-compatible, a quick test is to place a magnet on the bottom of the pan. If it sticks firmly, then your pan is induction-compatible.
A range of induction hobs is available, from budget models to top brands that come with a full TFT display and comprehensive operating menu. The hob will show the pan's location on a full-color display when it is placed in an area of power. A control button or slider allows you to alter the power setting or set a clock. There are many clever gadgets, including pan sensors that adhere to the sides of cookware and communicate with the hob via bluetooth to control the power.
One of our most sought-after models is an induction cooker with an integrated extractor fan to reduce smoke, steam and cooking smells. This model is ideal for homes with limited space since it eliminates the requirement for a separate extractor fan. Like other induction hobs uk, it uses magnetic fields at frequencies within the kilohertz spectrum to create the heat that is absorbed by your pan and its contents. In normal operation at an interval of 5-10 centimetres, these fields comply with the reference value for magnetic flux density set for the relevant frequency range by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection and no health-related effects are anticipated.
Electric Hobs
The best hob uk electric hobs provide an elegant look and are designed to match most kitchen styles. They are a great choice for those who prefer the convenience of using touchscreen controls instead of dials and come with many options to suit your cooking requirements. Most are made from glass that is easy to clean, and can appear stylish if you go for a black or white design. Some models feature bridge features that allow you to connect two zones to make room for larger pans while others come with an additional power boost button to provide extra heat for difficult tasks.
Induction hobs are gaining popularity because they offer a contemporary and sleek design that is in keeping with modern kitchen designs. They cook fast and provide a high degree of security. For instance, they tend to cool down quicker than gas cookers and have a 'hot' indicator light that stays on to inform you that the cooking zone is hot to the surface. They also are more efficient, as the magnetic field only heats the pan, not the air surrounding it.
There are some things to consider when choosing an electric hob and oven. Most require an electric power source that is configured with the correct cables and breakers. We recommend installing it by a certified electrician. Induction hobs can be costly and you'll have to buy a set of compatible induction pans to make the most of them. They can also be more expensive to run because they typically consume more energy than other types of hobs.
Check out our wide range of kitchen appliances if you're considering the purchase of a new kitchen or replacing your existing hob? We can help you select the perfect oven uk hob to suit your style and cooking preferences. Our experts are available to answer your questions and discuss options with you. We provide an nationwide service and will install your new appliance if you'd like.