The Best Hobs
Hobs can be found in various sizes and materials. The best hob uk hobs will be sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs because of their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. You can speed up the high-quality cooking appliances process by utilizing features such as 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 gas hobs do they utilize magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They can boil more quickly than kettles and use less energy. They're now a common 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 and a handy minute reminder. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is easy to operate using the touch control panels, but one minor issue (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, this is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction hob uk comes with a five-year warranty and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency and the lowest power consumption of 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pots or pans and the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% for rapid boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shut off function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops your cooking pan from overheating so you don't have to worry about burning food items.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly marked with the use of a cross or ring to show where the center of the coil lies beneath, while there's an easy-to-use control panel. It has a wide "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots effortlessly and is pre-programmed so that you have set power levels in the front, middle and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought to a boiling point, then simmered and kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop for those who are American) still reigns supreme when it comes to kitchen cooking. They are the best choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to produce high temperatures quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to determine each burner's status at a glance. This is extremely useful for safety. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally turn on a burner or forget that it was turned on.
The majority of models are also constructed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that could keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction counterparts since they heat up faster and more evenly, thus reducing energy costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances and remove the need for the Hood. This can save space in your kitchen and create a sleeker look that will be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Due to their efficiency and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for freestanding gas hobs rather than built-in versions. These are easier to install, and offer more flexibility in the event that you want to create a an elegant kitchen design.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is an excellent option if you are looking to go green. But, you'll need be able to locate the right LPG boiler and stove before this becomes an option for you. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're looking for an energy-efficient and sleek option, an induction hob is definitely the option to choose. Hobs that induction cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient, as they consume less power than their gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you'll need to buy induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't wish to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs are made of a smooth glass top that conceals heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need lengthy scouring. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs, so they are not the best choice if are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs are a good budget option, with a simple and durable design that is perfect for everyday cooking. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the best choice for chefs who are able to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs also give off lots of heat, which means they're not as efficient like the other choices on this list.
We recommend looking for reviews on the websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a true insight into the quality of the product, but will also aid you in locating the one that is suitable for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished with long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric ovens hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their instant heating and control, they're also a popular choice because they can provide instant heat. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.
Look for an electric hob with a sleek design and touchscreen controls. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface, which won't scratch or chip. For safety, choose one with child locks, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to help prevent 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 hob and oven with ease.
Consider a dual-fuel hob uk which has gas and induction burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times to ensure that your food is cooked when you require it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less flavorful.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may want a model that permits you to join two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This will save space and can be beneficial for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to offer additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model, it won't cost a fortune too, since there are excellent own-brand options. However, bear in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply that is plugged in with the correct cables and breakers to work so you'll need to get it installed by a qualified electrician.