Ovens and Hobs in the UK
Ovens and hobs are available in a wide range of sizes and fuel types. Freestanding cookers are available in electric or gas-powered and are set in a neat manner between kitchen units.
They usually have a single oven and two or three plates or hob rings. Hobs are available in induction, gas or ceramic models and electric models that have a fan.
Gas
Gas ovens and hobs are a favorite choice for many UK homes. Gas ovens and hobs are very popular in UK homes because they provide precise temperature control. They also tend to be quicker at heating up than electric alternatives such as ceramic hobs. Modern gas hobs come in a variety of styles and designs that can complement any kitchen.
A gas cooker is typically operated using the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and can be placed in place of an existing stove or as a complement to a traditional oven. The burners can also be operated manually using matches or lighters however modern hobs come with more convenient electronic ignition systems that are designed to facilitate operation and make it safer.
While they do require electricity to operate certain functions, such as the ignition system as well as some safety features gas hobs are able to be used to cook even during power outages. Some models have flame failure devices (FFD) or thermocouples that shut off the gas supply in the event that the flame is not lit and prevent dangerous gas leaks.
If you decide to install a gas hob in your kitchen, you must ensure that the installation is completed by a licensed professional who is Gas Safe registered. This ensures that the gas and electrical connections are configured correctly, and that all safety regulations are adhered to.
A gas hob can be a great choice for your kitchen, but it is important to remember the cleaning and maintenance requirements. To keep your hob in good condition it is essential to regularly clean it and look for any loose or damaged components. It's also a good idea to keep an empty cream cleaner in your kitchen for stains that are tough or burned-on deposits. Modern hobs are simpler to clean, particularly ones with ceramic or induction surfaces. Ideally, you should opt for a model with touchscreen controls instead of dials, as these are less fiddly to clean.
Induction
Rather than using a traditional gas flame or heating elements, induction hobs use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. They are energy efficient, quick and offer precise control over cooking. However, they require compatible cookware. Cast iron or stainless steel pans that have magnetic bases work best ovens, but aluminum is also compatible if the base is flat. Look for the induction symbol at the bottom of your cookware to verify it's compatible.
Induction hobs are also more convenient than gas models, as they don't require a chimney or flue. The smooth glass-ceramic surface is also easy to clean, which means spills and splatters are less likely burn. Certain models come with a pause feature that prevents the cooker from operating when you're away, whereas others have minute minders that will let you set timers for specific cooking zones.
Certain brands offer unique accessories for induction hobs. They include pan sensors that stick to the side of cookware to communicate with the device using Bluetooth to regulate temperature accurately. This is a fantastic option for those who are a professional chef, or perhaps a casual cook, as it will make the process of preparing a meal so much quicker and more enjoyable.
Induction hobs are also more fashionable than other kinds of cookers which are set on top of a worktop. Some feature a frameless design which blends seamlessly into the countertop giving it a sleek look. They can also boast a full-color display that allows you to easily navigate the hob's controls with intuitive menus and functions.
Be on the lookout for features like bridge zones that integrate that allow you to connect two cooking zones at the same time - useful for larger cookware. Some models come with residual heat indicators that show when the surface is still hot, which is beneficial when you cook with children. Induction hobs typically cost more than other kinds of electric hobs, but their long-term energy savings could help offset this. They are more secure than gas models since there is no open flame and heating element.
Electric
Electric cookers are less expensive to purchase than gas models, and they heat up faster. They also tend to be easier to clean as they don't have a fire beneath and have smooth surfaces so they can cope with hot pans easily without getting damaged. However some electric hobs - especially induction and ceramic take a bit longer to warm up and may retain heat on the surface when turned off, which can be an issue if you cook with a lot of pans and wish to lower your energy bills.
A well-known kitchen appliance, gas ovens offer instant heat and precise control, so they're loved by foodies and professional chefs. They're also good in simmering and have better temperature distribution across the cavity, so they cook food evenly unlike electric ovens that have hot spots in specific places.
Gas hobs are available in four different types:
Gas hobs are easy to use and feature an obvious flame. They can be used to boil, fry or simmer. They're great for boiling potatoes, frying sausages and more. They are also known for cooking faster than electric hobs. This can be an advantage for busy home. They're also relatively cheap to run and can be converted to make use of the bottled LPG to provide a more eco sustainable alternative.
Electric hobs include an element of heating beneath the ceramic or induction plate. They also have between four and six sizes of cooking rings, each having two to three levels of power. They are quicker to warm up than gas hobs and are suitable for a range of sizes for pans, so they're a great option for a variety of cooking styles. They are also safer, because there's no flame to burn and they're easy to clean without scalding.
Electric hobs are a popular choice, and there are many varieties to choose from such as ceramic, induction and sealed plate. The one with the seal is strong and durable and can withstand heavy usage. They're less expensive than other kinds however they can take longer to heat up, and some retain the heat even after they're turned off, so you may be surprised to find your food warm when you sit down for dinner.
Combination
Stoves and ovens hobs are essential kitchen appliances for any busy establishment. They can save time and money by heating food to a temperature that is appropriate for serving, rather than keeping it warm for long periods. This stops the loss of flavour, nutritional value and texture. They must be cleaned regularly with a proper clean cycle to ensure the gaskets are not able to harden and fail. It is crucial that employees refrain from slamming doors, as this could damage the soft gaskets, which can lead to premature failure and costly replacement.
The most basic and cost-effective oven is the single microwave that makes use of radio waves to heat food quickly easily, evenly and with minimum effort. Some models even grill or bake food. Other models have additional features, such as automatic cleaning cycles food storage, self-cleaning and self-cleaning options. There is also the modern Induction hob which uses an electric field to heat only the pan or pot that is placed on the top, which reduces energy consumption and is much faster to changing the temperature than Ceramic hobs.