How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
We have a range of sizes, styles and features that can be adapted to any kitchen.
Solid plate hobs are simple to use and are durable. They are made of metal with a sealed surface that heats your cookware. They're ideal for flat-based products and are cost-effective to run.
Origins
Ovens are utilized in kitchens all over the world to bake and roast foods. Generally they are fueled by electricity or gas with bottle gas models that are sold in certain stores however ovens can also use other fuels such as wood or charcoal. In many homes the oven is located by a stove where food can be cooked. Hobs are essentially a stove that can be turned on and off. An oven is a closed space which heats food in the middle.
The first ovens were huge brick and mud constructions which contained a fire to cook food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat and other meals since they were relatively good at keeping the heat at an even temperature, and could easily be shared among family members. The open pits and ovens had three major flaws: they were dangerous due to the open flames and smoke, they used a lot fuel (wood) and they were difficult to control the heat and cooking.
The solution was to make ovens look like fireplaces. They had a chimney that secluded off the fire, thus reducing its intensity and the amount of smoke. This made it easier to manage. They were popular in the 16th and early 17th century. They were common in wealthy homes that had a separate kitchen with a chimney, and more than one oven and fireplace.
By the mid-19th Century, European ovens were a common feature in kitchens. This was largely due to the fact that the oven was an essential requirement. It was more secure and efficient for people to cook their food over an open fire or in a cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of ovens coincided in part with changes in cooking methods and recipes, leading to a greater emphasis on meat and casseroles.
It is worth noting that in some recipes, like those of Nigella she suggests leaving a pot "on the hob" but this can be misleading since a hob is actually a British word for stove top. If you're not familiar with British terminology, the North American equivalent would be the term cooktop or range.
Functions
The oven's functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed options that control the way in which the oven's heating elements and fan work based on the recipe. They are designed to help you cook food more efficiently and effectively while also preserving the taste and texture.
Most ovens come with a conventional mode that heats from the top and bottom to bake or roast food items. They also offer a fan-assisted mode that uses a built-in fan to circulate air around the oven for more even heating and faster speed. There are many different types of oven and hob functions to choose from, and it's crucial to understand the different options to figure out the ones that are best for your needs.
The fan-assisted function of the oven is perfect for cooking a range of food items. It can heat the oven more evenly than a conventional oven, and is ideal for baking, grilling, and roasting. It is especially useful for pizzas and pie that require a quick crisp and crisp finish. The Fan-Assisted setting features a zigzag at the top and a line on the bottom. It can help save up to 40 percent of cooking time.
Certain ovens uk have grilling functions that combine the heat from the bottom of the oven with the top to give your food an amazing char. This mode is perfect for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and can be marked by straight lines and zigzag lines, such as Fan-Assisted. This is usually used on the bottom shelf of the oven. Be sure to verify the temperature settings of your oven to prevent overcooking.
There are other oven functions like proofing pastry and bread slow cooking, proofing and much more. These ovens are usually programmed to create a warm and controlled atmosphere to aid in the rise of dough and help your food develop amazing flavor.
There are ovens hobs that have Steam functions that are perfect for creating healthy, nutritious food. Steam adds a delicate and rich flavor to baked goods including poultry, vegetables, and custards. This feature can be activated by simply placing water in the reservoir of your oven and then turning it on. Some models will even adjust the amount of steam according to the temperature you select.
Types
There are many kinds of ovens and hobs on the market, ranging from traditional gas to modern electric models. It is important to choose an oven and a hob that is suitable for your needs. It is important to consider features like self-cleaning or smart functions too.
Gas ovens are a common option and are suitable for the majority of kitchens. They usually come with burners with rings as well as an grate that the pans sit on, which releases heat, so they are simple to use. Gas hobs can also be energy efficient and provide precise temperature control, meaning they can reduce your energy bills. However, they will take longer to heat up than electric hobs and are difficult to clean if covered in a layer of residue.
Electric hobs come in many different designs, including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are slightly more expensive to purchase however they are considered to be energy efficient because the hob only generates heat when you place a pan over it. They are also safe for children and heat up fairly quickly. However, they may not always cook evenly and may take a while to cool down.
Plate hobs, also an essential kitchen appliance, have a variety of cooking zones that are all electric and on flat surfaces. They are positioned beneath your kitchen cabinets. They have a sleek, modern design that is perfect for most kitchens. They aren't easy to keep clean, as they contain multiple cooking zones, which can cause uneven heating. They can also leave burn marks on the surface if they are not properly cleaned.
Single ovens with built-In oven ovens are the most commonly used type of oven and they can be installed either under a stove or above the eye level in a built-in unit. They are often big enough to hold a large meal and can come in a variety of sizes, so be certain to consider your family's size when selecting an oven. They are also available with additional options like an oven with a grill or a steam function.
Installation
It could be worthwhile to hire an electrician to install an oven that is new for you or to replace an old one. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly installed and the new appliance is safe for use. A licensed electrician can follow local regulations and ensure that your installation is in accordance with all applicable safety regulations.
You'll require all the tools and supplies you need before you begin the installation of your new electric hob and oven. This includes wire nuts, an electric tape, screwdriver as well as an electrical circuit tester and conduit. It's also important to test the electrical power supply in your home and make sure it can withstand the demands of a new electric oven and hob.
The first step of putting in a new stove and oven is to take out any old appliances. To accomplish this, locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance in place and carefully remove them. After the appliance is removed, the area where the new one is installed should be clean and free of any obstructions. Then, a junction box must be mounted and connected to the electrical supply with conduit. It is crucial to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and any local regulations.
After electrical connections have been made, the oven or hob can then be lowered in the desired position. The fitter will then use the clips that came with the hob to hold it to the wall and ensure that it's flush with the worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to ensure it is functioning properly.
It is best to employ a professional to install a gas stove and oven. Gas installation isn't as straightforward as plugging in a new electric oven and requires the services of an CORGI registered engineer to connect the pipework. It's also recommended to purchase an oven hood fitted in case you don't have one as it will allow you to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.