How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen
If you're looking for an oven or hob that is new, we have a variety of dimensions and features to suit your kitchen.
Solid plate hobs are easy to use and durable. They have metal plates with a sealed surface that heats your cookware. They're ideal for flat-based products and are cost-effective to run.
Origins
Ovens are kitchen appliances that are used to bake and roast food in households around the world. They are typically powered by electricity or gas, with gas bottles available in some markets however ovens can also use other fuels like charcoal or wood. In a lot of homes, the oven is enclosed by a hob that food can be cooked. A hob is a burner that can be turned on or off. An oven is a closed enclosure which heats food in the middle.
The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures, which contained fire in order to heat food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat and other dishes as they were relatively good at keeping the heat at an even temperature and could be easily shared among family members. Open pits and ovens had three major drawbacks: they were dangerous because of the smoke and flames that could be seen from them and they required a lot of fuel (wood), they were difficult to control heat and the cooking process.
A solution was found using ovens that resembled fireplaces, with a chimney that shut off the fire to reduce the intensity and amount of smoke and make it easier to control. They were popular in the 16th and early 17th centuries. They were found in wealthy homes with a separate kitchen with a chimney, and more than one oven and fireplace.
By the mid-19th Century, European ovens were a common fixture in kitchens. This was due to the fact that the oven was essential, since it was more secure and efficient to cook in an oven rather than on an open flame or in a cauldron. It is believed that the growth and use of the oven coincided with changes in cooking styles and recipes, which led to a greater emphasis on casseroles and meat.
It is important to note that in certain recipes like those of Nigella she may suggest placing the pot "on the hob" but this can be misleading as a hob is actually a British term for a stove top. The North American equivalent is a cooktop or range, so it could be confusing if you're unfamiliar with the British terminology.
Functions
Oven functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed options which control the way that oven's heating elements and fan work based on the recipe. They are designed to make cooking food more efficiently and effectively while also preserving the flavor and texture.
Ovens come with a traditional mode that heats food from the top to the bottom. There is also a fan-assisted option that uses an integrated fan to circulate air around the oven, which allows for a more even and quicker heating. There are many options for oven and hob functions. It's important to know the differences to determine which one is best ovens for you.
A fan-assisted oven feature is perfect for cooking a variety of food items. It is able to heat the oven more evenly than a traditional oven, and is great for baking, grilling, and roasting. It is especially useful for pizzas and pie that require a quick, crisp finish. The Fan-Assisted setting features an angled top and a line at the bottom. It can cut down up to 40 percent of cooking time.
Certain ovens come with grilling options that combine heat from the bottom and top of the oven, giving your food a delicious char. This mode is perfect for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and can be marked by zigzag lines and straight lines, such as Fan-Assisted. This mode is typically found on the bottom shelf of the oven. Be sure to check the temperature settings inside your oven to ensure that you don't overcook.
There are also other oven functions for proofing pastry and bread slow cooking, proofing and much more. These are often preprogrammed and create a controlled, warm environment that helps rise dough and develop flavors.
Certain ovens have a steam function that is perfect for making healthy and nutritious food. Steam adds a delicate and rich flavor to baked items such as poultry, vegetables, and custards. Using this function is just as simple as pouring the water into the reservoir of your oven and turning it on, with some models even automatically adjusting the amount of steam to depend on the temperature you select.
Types
There are many kinds of ovens and hobs that are available with a range of styles, from traditional gas to modern electric models. Choosing one that meets your requirements and preferences can make a big difference to how easy it is to cook in your home. Think about features like self-cleaning capabilities or smart functions.
Gas ovens are a great fit in many kitchens and are a popular choice. They are easy to use since they come with rings on the burners and an grate on which pans rest which emits heat. Gas hobs can also be energy efficient and have precise temperature control, meaning they could reduce your utility bills. However, they will take longer to heat than electric and can be difficult to clean if they are covered in a layer of residue.
Electric hobs come in a range of designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are slightly more expensive to purchase but are considered to be energy efficient because the hob only generates heat when you place a pan over it. They are also cool to the touch, making them more child-safe, and are quick to heat up. However, they may not always heat evenly and may take a while to cool down.
Plate hobs, which are a kitchen staple, feature an array of cooking zones that are all electric and on flat surfaces. They are positioned under the cabinets in your kitchen. They have a sleek, modern design that is perfect for most kitchens. They are difficult to clean since they contain multiple zones of uneven heating. If not properly cleaned, they can leave burn marks.
The most commonly used model is the built-in single oven. These can be installed under a hob or at eye-level in cabinets with built-in ovens. When choosing an oven, consider the size of your family. They can be big enough to accommodate a huge meal and are available in various sizes. There are also ovens with additional features, such as grill or steam functions.
Installation
It might be worthwhile hiring an electrician to install a new oven for you, or replace an old one. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly set up and your new appliance is safe for use. An electrician who is certified can follow local regulations and ensure that your installation is in accordance with all applicable safety regulations.
You'll need all the tools and materials that you require before beginning the installation of your new electric hob and oven. Wire nuts as well as a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll require. It's also important to check the electrical power supply in your home to ensure it is able to handle the load of a brand new electric oven and hob.
To install an oven and hob that are new first, you must take them out of the old ones. To do this, locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance and then remove them carefully. Once the appliance has been removed, the area where the new one is installed should be clean and free of any obstructions. The junction box should be installed, with the conduit connected to the electrical supply. This should be done according to the manufacturer's instructions and any relevant local regulations.
Once electrical connections are established, the oven or hob is then lowered into place. The fitter will use the clips that came with the hob to secure it and ensure it's flush with your worktop. Finally, the fitter will test the hob and ensure that it's functioning properly.
If you're installing a gas hob and oven (simply click the next document), it's a good idea employ a professional for the task. Gas installation isn't quite as easy as plugging in an electric oven and requires the assistance of a CORGI certified engineer to connect the pipework. Installing cooker hoods is a good option for those who don't have one. This will help ventilate your kitchen, and is required under Part F of Building Regulations.