A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A oven hob is a kitchen appliance that is fitted into a cutout in the worktop. It can be electric or gas ovens and hobs could have up to six cooking rings or zones. Its design is modern and is easy to clean.
The market is flooded with smart hobs that integrate with home automation systems, and also offer the possibility of customization. They also are looking to improve hygiene and cut down on energy consumption.
Hobs with induction
Induction hobs which are elegant and efficient, are a popular option for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, unlike gas and electric models, which rely on heating plate to heat cookware directly, use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass-ceramic surface are coils which an alternating current flows through. When a pan that is compatible is placed on the cooking area the coils generate an electric field that interacts with the metal inside the pan, causing electrical currents and creating heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction best hobs also feature an easier-to-use design. The top of the appliance has a full TFT display that can be used to control it. It displays the cookware that is currently in use, and the power setting that you have selected. The control panel can be locked to avoid accidental button pressing. Many induction hobs come with a boost function that increases the effectiveness of a cooking zone for a short time period to bring the boiling water to cook in a pan to searing.
A lot of induction hobs feature a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surfaces seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They are usually black, however some come with other colour options that can be matched to your kitchen's decor. They are also typically equipped with minimalist, sleek controls that have indicator lights to indicate the level of power and other functions.
To get the most out of an induction cooktop it is necessary to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. If you're interested in knowing if a pan will work on an induction stove, place a magnet over its base. If the magnet sticks to it, then it is compatible. Many induction hobs have a pan detection system to avoid overusing energy. The coils are only activated when an appropriate pan or pans are in use.
Induction ovens hobs can be ideal for shared homes or student housing since they don't contain an open flame and are safer than gas models. However, they do produce an eerie ticking or humming sound when they are operating, which can be a nuisance to some people.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs make use of natural gas or propane gas that has been liquefied to heat your cookware. They are ideal for a variety of cooking methods. They offer precise temperature control, and are more efficient in heating than some electric alternatives, like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stands must be cleaned regularly to ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
Most modern gas hobs utilise electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or a continuous electric flame to light the burners and begin the combustion process. They then make use of electrical components, like sensors and switches to control the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners work correctly. The burners may also have several control knobs to adjust the intensity of the flame as well as the heat output.
Gas hobs are available in various models, ranging from one to six burners. Take into account the dimensions of your pans when choosing this number, since you'll need to make sure that there are enough burners to accommodate all cookware you intend to use. If you are a frequent stir-fryer then choose a model that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models come with griddle elements built in, so you can prepare an easy and delicious breakfast or lunch.
A major consideration when choosing a gas hob is the cost to run it. Gas hobs generally come with lower initial costs than induction hobs, however the operating cost can be a bit different depending on your local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require a natural gas supply, and ventilation. This can lead to higher installation costs than an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs are a fantastic way to combine two appliances into a single unit, reducing space in your kitchen and giving a more sleek appearance. They draw smoke and steam through a duct on the surface of the best hob uk and work much more efficiently than traditional hoods as they can capture steam at cooking level instead of let it rise and escape into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
Whether you need extra hob space in your kitchen or you want to take your cooking outdoors the kitchen, a portable hob could be a good option. They are designed to plug into your kitchen worktop, making them easy to use. You can also take them with you when you want to cook elsewhere. These are also useful if you need to renovate your kitchen, or need more space for your hob in busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming more popular in both professional and home kitchens as they're quick, safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They work by creating a magnetic coil that has an electrical current running through it, which then warms the pan you place on the top. This means there's no wasted heat' as with gas or electric hobs that can help reduce your expenses.
This Belling hob comes with dual cooking zones, with a double ring design, and can be used with many different pots and saucepans. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution mean it was a favourite among testers, who liked the capability to easily alter the temperature of the two zones beneficial. The only downside was that it took more than 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which can be a hassle for those who are pressed for time.
This model from Smeg is a great choice if you want a compact model. It's thin and light, less than half the size as other models on the list. This makes it easy to store away when not in use. The brushed silver finish appears like a premium finish and is easier to clean than the more shiny finishes found on other hobs.
These hobs may be a practical smaller alternative to larger ones however, they are hot and can cause serious burns. We recommend that you handle the hob carefully and place it in a safe place far from children's reach, and away from areas where people might slip on it. Many models also have a child lock, which is a useful feature to consider if you have kids.