A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance for kitchens that is fitted into a cutout in the worktop. It can be electric or gas, and have up to six cooking rings. It is easy to clean and has a a modern look.
Smart hobs that allow for customization and are compatible with home automation systems are attractive to consumers. They also want to lower the use of energy and improve hygiene.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs that are stylish and efficient are a preferred option for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to gas and electric models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware directly, use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. The glass-ceramic top is where coils are utilized to create an alternating current. When a compatible pot is placed on the cooking surface the coils create magnetic forces that interact with the metal inside the pot, generating electrical currents and heat. This process makes induction hobs more energy-efficient and easier to clean than traditional hobs.
Induction hobs also feature a more user-friendly design. The top of the appliance features a full TFT display that can be used to control it. It shows what cookware is currently in use, and what power setting you have selected. The control panel may also be locked to prevent accidental use of buttons. Many induction hobs have a boost feature that increases the power of the cooking zone for a short period of time. This feature is helpful to speedily bring boiling water to a boil, or heating a pan to sear.
A majority of induction hobs are not frameless, with the glass ceramic surface that is seamlessly integrated into your countertop. They usually come in black, but some offer other colour options that can be matched to your kitchen's decor. These units also have simple controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators that show the power level or other functions.
To maximize the benefits of your induction hob you will require induction-compatible cookware. The best ovens and hobs hobs (check out your url) method to determine whether a pot is compatible is to run a magnet across its base. If the magnet stays it's safe to use on an induction hob and oven. To ensure that you don't overuse energy the majority of induction hobs have pan detection systems that only activates the coils when a suitable pan is present.
Induction hobs can be ideal for shared homes or student housing since they don't contain an open flame and are more secure than gas versions. They can make a humming noise or ticking sound when they are in use, which can be annoying to some people.
Gas hobs
A gas hob uses natural gas or liquid petroleum gas to create the flame that cookware is heated which makes it suitable for a variety of cooking techniques. They are faster to heat up and provide more precise temperature control than electric options such as ceramic hobs. They can sometimes be dirty to clean with burner caps and wok stands that need to be removed regularly to make sure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
Modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or continuous flame to start the burners and initiate the combustion process. They then use electrical components such as switches and sensors to control the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners work properly. They may also have several control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame as well as the output of heat.
Based on the model you select, gas hobs come with anywhere between one and six burners. When deciding on the number burners, take into account the size of the pans you will be using. You'll need to make sure you have enough space to accommodate the cookware you'll use. If you frequently stir-fry then choose a model with a wok burn. Some models have griddle elements included, which means you can make a quick and tasty breakfast or lunch.
A key consideration when selecting gas hobs is the cost to run it. Gas hobs generally have lower initial purchase prices than induction hobs, however operating costs can differ greatly depending on your local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require natural gas supply and ventilation. This could lead to higher installation costs than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are a fantastic method of combining two appliances into one unit, reducing space in your kitchen while giving a more sleek appearance. They extract steam and smoke through a duct that is located on the hob's surface and work more efficiently than traditional hoods as they're able to capture steam at the level of cooking rather than letting it rise and escape into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is a great option if you need more space in your kitchen or wish to cook outdoors. They are designed to connect to the kitchen worktop, making them easy to use. You can also bring them with you when you want to cook somewhere else. They also come in handy if you're renovating your kitchen or simply require some extra hob space to accommodate busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both residential and commercial kitchens due to their speed and safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They function by creating an electric current that flows through a magnetic coil, which heats up the pan you put on the top. This means there's no 'wasted heat' like a gas or electric hob, which can help keep your bills down.
This Belling hob has two cooking zones, as well as with a double ring design, ovens and hobs can be used with a variety of pans and pots. Its intuitive interface and good heat distribution mean it was the most popular choice for testers, who liked the capability to easily alter the temperature of the two zones helpful. The only issue was that it took more than 12 minutes to boil a litre of water, which could be a problem for those who are time-pressed.
If you're looking for a more compact option the Smeg model could be worth a glance. It's light and thin with less than half the size as some of the other models on our list. This makes it easy to put 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 can be a practical smaller alternative to larger ones however, they are hot and could cause serious burns. This is why we recommend cautious handling and careful placement, with the plug away from children and away from areas where people might slip over it. Many models also have a child lock which is a helpful feature to consider if you have kids.