What is a Hob?
The hob is an essential element in every kitchen. Modern hobs are usually made of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are less expensive than gas ones, but they use electricity. Induction hobs are compatible with virtually any type of cookware. However, they need compatible pans which emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "hol" and means hole, pit or a ding. The name also traces its roots to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means a crag or hill.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits that do domestic chores. They are usually benevolent but they can also be annoying if they are offended. One example of a hob and oven was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
Another popular use of the term is to refer to a specific type of cooking equipment. A hob is a metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top surface is typically flat, and has several cooking elements like rings. In some instances, the hob is replaced by a flat rock which can serve as a goal for quoits.
The earliest attested uses of the term hob go back to the early 16th century. It was likely acquired at the same time as the female version hobgoblin. This is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent appearance hobs can play amusing pranks on people. They can also be very destructive when they are provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place a cart on its roof, which was an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. Furthermore, they can be difficult to work with due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly used in the best ovens uk they can also be used in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with the push of a button, and they can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These types of features are drawing customers to purchase these devices. In addition, some models have advanced security features, like locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for their speedy heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and they heat up only when they come into contact with cookware compatible, which minimizes the risk of burning. The power is also shut off immediately when cookware leaves the cooking area. These safety features are especially useful in the home where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction hobs use less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a "Stop & Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking zones to their lowest settings when you need to leave the kitchen. Others feature bridge functions that connects two cooking zones induction to create a large zone that is controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook using larger or odd-sized pots and pans.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted with simple and intuitive controls that are simple to use and read. A lot of ovens hobs have timers, presets for common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs as well as a Booster feature that only uses maximum power for the specified time, and a soft "bottom heat" to reduce simmering time and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks and crannies that can collect dirt over time, as with conventional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add sophistication and style to modern kitchens. They have sleek, modern lines that blend well with other appliances and décor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs that have automatic shut-off functions. They monitor the surface of the hob to detect signs of excessive heat or explosive substances. The gas supply is then cut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it helps reduce the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs utilize sensors to detect the cookware isn't in contact it. This will protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are many different kinds of hob available, so it's crucial to determine the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control, energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you choose will also have an impact on your budget - both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame with natural gas. This heats pans and pots. They are a favorite option for many home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to provide precise temperature control. Additionally, they are unaffected by power outages and can be used with many cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more expensive to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs can also be more prone than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the flame that is open and ensure that the stove is properly secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, a different option in the kitchen make use of electric elements on the ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based products. They take longer to cool and heat than other types of hobs and aren't easy for cleaning.
Halogen hobs look similar to electric plates, however they have a filament bulb that is used to heat the surface. This makes them more energy-efficient than traditional electric hobs however they aren't as quick to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some have touch-based controls, while others use physical knobs.
Induction hobs use electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in faster heating and more even heat distribution. In addition, induction hobs are easier to clean than other kinds of hobs because they don't have exposed burners or grates. However, they aren't as efficient in simmering and might not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen but they could be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Unsupervised pans and inadvertent cleaning can cause fires that can damage your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are an important cause of kitchen fires.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to break or shatter, which can pose an fire risk. Fortunately, most hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems employ power modulation as well to ensure that heat output remains constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features help safeguard the hob and its components, while preventing fire hazards to other kitchen surfaces.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. These EMF are not as powerful as those generated by mobile phones and the radiation they produce is non-ionising.
Induction hobs can only be used with specific types of cookware It is therefore essential to ensure that your pots and pans are induction-ready prior to making use of them. One way to check this is to place a magnet near the base of the pan. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong cookware could cause damage to your stove or cause fire.
It is also important to keep children and other people away from the hob while it is being used, as the surface can become extremely hot. Also, it is recommended to wear oven gloves whenever you are touching handles on metal pans because they can be extremely hot. Also, it is essential to switch your hob off immediately after use because they can remain hot for a while. If you experience a fire, follow the fire service instructions - call 911 and leave your house as fast as you can.