The best ovens and hobs Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hob uk hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts for their versatility and precise control of the flame. However, electric hobs can provide superior energy efficiency and are easier to keep clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as do gas ovens hobs they utilize magnetic technology to heat the copper coils that are below your pans. The cooktop remains cool to the touch, making it safer to use and simpler for cleaning. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and use less energy. They are now a staple kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen, and we love this elegant, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones with individually controlled functions as well as an efficient minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common issue with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating, with the lowest power consumption of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and adjust the power levels to suit the pots or pans you use. In addition, the "Power boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up the boiling process. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function, as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops your cooking pan from overheating which means you do not need to worry about burning food items.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily hardwired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified with an arrow or cross to show you where the center of the coil lies beneath, while there's an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It features an enormous 'Flux Zone' that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is great if you often cook with different sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought up to boiling point, simmered and then kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, in the case of American) is still the best ovens uk in cooking in the kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately generate high heat levels, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at an instant. This is very helpful to ensure security. With an electric hob, it's harder to accidentally switch on the burner or forget that it was on.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's nothing that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, which is why you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are more energy-efficient than their induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, which saves the cost of electricity. This is particularly true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for a grill. This can free up space in your kitchen and create a sleeker look that will fit in with any interior style.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models because of their effectiveness and ease of use. They are less difficult to install, and offer more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic kitchen look.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you look into this alternative. Moreover, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the Best Hob option for those who want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly and the flat ceramic surface of the hob stays cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, since they use less electricity than their gas or electric counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll have to purchase a set of induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs since they don't require hard scrubbing. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they are not a good choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs, the low-cost option with their basic and reliable design, are great for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the ideal choice for chefs who are able to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other options.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. Not only will this provide you with a clear view into how it performs, but it will also help you to find a model that's right for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs may be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and easy control, they are also popular because they are quick to heat. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
Find an electric hob with a an elegant design and has touch controls. Avoid those with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are more easy to clean if they have a flat surface, which won't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for an electronic display that gives you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, ensuring you can manage your stove with ease.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob with gas and induction burners. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and sturdy cast iron pan supports that accommodate traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set cooking times to ensure that food is ready when you require it. This minimizes the chance of cooking too long, and can make your food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you might want a model that allows you to join two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of different dimensions and shapes. This can help save space and is useful if you often cook with large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to offer additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in a range of prices, from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model it shouldn't cost much either as there are some top options from own brands. But, keep in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply with the appropriate breakers and cables so you'll need it installed by a certified electrician.