How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
If you're looking for an oven or hob that is new, we've got the dimensions, features and styles to fit your kitchen.
Generally simple to use and durable, solid plate hobs have sealed metal plates that heat your cookware. These are good for flat-based cookware and can be cost-effective to operate.
Origins
ovens uk are utilized in kitchens all over the world to bake and roast food items. Generally they are fueled by gas or electricity with bottle gas models that are sold in certain stores however ovens can also use other fuels like charcoal or wood. 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 structures that had a fire for heating food. They were used for baking bread, cooking meat, and other dishes since they were able to hold heat and maintained a constant temperature. They were also able to be shared among family members. Open pits and ovens had three major flaws They were dangerous due to the open flames and smoke, they used a lot fuel (wood), they were difficult to control the heat and cooking.
A solution was found using ovens that resembled fireplaces, with a chimney which shut off the fire to decrease the intensity and amount of smoke and make it easier to manage. They were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. They were used in homes of the wealthy with a separate kitchen with a chimney and more than one oven and fireplace.
By the middle of the 19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in kitchens at home. It was partly due the fact that the oven was an essential requirement. It was safer and more efficient to cook on an open fire or in a cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of the oven was with changes in cooking styles and recipes, which led to a greater focus on casseroles and meat.
In some recipes, such as those of Nigella she may recommend placing the pan "on the hob". However it could be confusing because a hob used in British English is a stovetop. If you're unfamiliar with British terminology, the North American equivalent would be a range or cooktop.
Functions
The oven functions, also known as cooking modes, are preprogrammed settings that control the oven's heating element and fan depending on your recipe. They are designed to make cooking food more efficiently and effectively while also preserving the taste and texture.
Ovens are equipped with a traditional design that heats food from the top to the bottom. They also offer a fan-assisted mode that uses a built-in fan to circulate air around the oven to ensure better even and faster heating. There are a myriad of types of ovens and hobs to choose from, and it's crucial to know the various features to determine the ones that are best hob for your requirements.
The fan-powered function of the oven is perfect for cooking a wide range of food items. It is able to heat the oven more evenly than a conventional oven, and is ideal for grilling, baking and roasting. It is particularly useful for dishes like pizza and pie that require a quick crisp and smooth finish. The Fan-Assisted setting features a zigzag on top and a line at the bottom. It can cut down up to 40% of cooking time.
Some ovens have grilling features that combine the heat from the bottom of the oven with the top, giving your meals a delicious charcoal. This mode is perfect for meat and vegetable kebabs and can be marked by straight lines or zigzag lines, such as Fan-Assisted. This type of oven is usually utilized on the bottom rack of the oven, so make careful to observe the temperature settings of your oven to avoid overcooking.
Other oven functions include slow cooking making bread and pastries, proofing them and many more. These ovens are usually programmed to create a warm, controlled environment that will facilitate the rise of dough and help your food develop amazing flavor.
Some ovens have steam functions that are ideal for making healthy and nutritious food. It imparts a delicate, rich flavour to baked items such as poultry, vegetables, and custards. This function can be activated by simply placing water in the reservoir of your oven and then turning it on. Certain models can adjust the amount of steam according to the temperature you select.
Types
There are a variety of ovens and hobs available on the market, ranging from traditional gas models to modern electric models. Selecting one that is suitable for your requirements and preferences can make a big difference to how it is easy to cook in your home. It is important to consider features such as self-cleaning and smart functions too.
Gas ovens work well in many kitchens and are a very popular option. They are simple to use as they have rings around the burners and an grate on which pans rest and emits heat. Gas hobs are also energy efficient and provide precise temperature control. This can help lower your energy bills. They can take longer to warm up than electric hobs and can be more difficult to clean up with the residue.
Electric hobs come in a variety of different styles including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are a bit more expensive but they are energy efficient because the hob only gets hot when you put the pot on it. They are also safe for children and heat up quite quickly. They are also slow to cool off and do not warm up evenly.
Plate hobs, which are also an essential kitchen appliance, have a variety of cooking zones that are all electric and on an even surface. They are placed under the cabinets in your kitchen. They provide a stylish modern look that looks sleek and match the majority of kitchens. They aren't easy to clean since they have multiple cooking zones with uneven heating. They can also leave burn marks on the surface if they are not cleaned properly.
Single ovens that are built-in are the most popular type of oven, and these can be fitted either under a stove or at eye level in an integrated unit. They are often big enough to accommodate a big meal and come in different sizes, so be sure to take into consideration your family's size when you choose an oven. There are also ovens with extra features such as grill or steam functions.
Installation
If you're planning on installing a brand new oven or replacing one you have, it's worth hiring an electrician to manage the installation for you. This will ensure the electrical circuit is correctly set up and your new oven is safe to use. An electrician who is certified can follow local regulations and ensure that your installation is in compliance with all applicable safety codes.
You'll need all the tools and materials you require prior to beginning the installation process of your new electric hob and oven. Wire nuts as well as a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll need. It's also important to check the electrical power supply in your home to ensure it can withstand the demands of a new electric oven and hob.
To put in an oven and hob that are new, you must first take them out of the old ones. To do this, locate the screws or bolts that hold the old appliance and remove them with care. After the old appliance has been removed from the area, it must be cleared of any obstructions. The junction box needs to be erected, as well as the conduit connected to the electrical supply. It is essential to follow the directions of the manufacturer as well as any local regulations.
After electrical connections are established then the oven and the hob can be moved into position. The fitter will then utilize the clips that came with the hob to fix it in place and ensure that it's flush with the worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to ensure it is operating properly.
It is recommended to hire a professional to install a gas hob and oven. Gas installation isn't as simple as plugging in a brand new electric oven. It requires the assistance of an CORGI certified engineer to connect the pipework. It's also an excellent idea to get an oven hood fitted if you don't already have one, as this will help to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.