A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits into the cutouts of a worktop. It can be electric or gas and can have one to six cooking rings or zones. It has a modern design and is easy to clean.
Smart hobs that can be customized and are compatible with home automation systems are attractive to consumers. They also are looking to improve hygiene and reduce energy consumption.
Hobs with induction
Induction hobs that are sleek and efficient are a preferred option for modern kitchens. Contrary to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction hobs use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan itself. Underneath the glass ceramic surface are coils that an alternating current runs through. When a pot that is compatible is placed in the cooking surface the coils create a magnetic force that interacts with the metal in the pot, creating electrical currents and heat. This process makes induction hobs energy-efficient and easier to clean than traditional hob types.
Induction hobs also feature an easier-to-use design. The top of the appliance features an entire TFT display that can be used to control it. It displays the cookware that is currently being used, and what power setting you have chosen. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental button pushing. A lot of induction hobs come with an increase function that boosts the effectiveness of a cooking zone for a short period of time to bring a pot of water to the boil or prepare a pan for searing.
A lot of induction hobs feature a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. Some induction hobs are available in different colors to match your kitchen's decor. They are also typically equipped with minimalist, sleek controls that have indicator lights to indicate power levels and other functions.
To get the most out of an induction cooker, you'll need to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. If you're interested in knowing if a pan will work on an induction stove, run a magnet across the base of the pan. If the magnet adheres to it, then it is compatible. To avoid overusing energy Induction hobs often have pan detection that only activates the coils if a suitable pan is present.
Induction hobs are a great choice for shared housing or student apartments, as they don't have an open flame and are safer than gas models. They do make a humming noise or ticking sound when they are in use, which can be irritating to some.
Gas hobs
A gas stove uses natural gas or the liquefied petroleum gas to create the flame that heats your cookware which makes it suitable for a wide range of cooking techniques. They provide precise temperature control and are also more efficient in heating than some electric alternatives, like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stands need to be cleaned regularly to ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
Modern gas hobs typically use electronic ignition systems, which use an electric spark or continuous electric flame to light the burners and begin the combustion process. They then use electrical components, like switches and sensors to regulate the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners work correctly. They may also have a number of control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame and heat output.
Depending on the model that you choose, gas hobs have anywhere from one to six burners. When deciding on the number burners, consider the size of the pans you will be using. You'll have to ensure that there are enough to accommodate the cookware you'll be using. If you often do stir-frys then you should choose an appliance with a wok burner. Some models come with griddle elements integrated, so you can cook a tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
A major consideration when choosing a gas hob is the cost of running it. Gas hobs typically have lower initial purchase prices than induction hobs, but the operating cost can be a bit different depending on your local gas rates and usage patterns. It's important to keep in the mind that a gas hob requires natural gas supplies and ventilation, which could increase installation costs over an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs integrate two appliances into one unit, saving you space and giving your kitchen a more sleek look. They draw steam and smoke through a duct located on the stove's surface which allows for more efficient operation than traditional hoods.
Portable hobs
Whether you need extra hob space in your kitchen or 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 simple to use. You can also bring them with you when you want to cook somewhere else. They also come in handy in the event that you're planning to renovate your kitchen or simply require some extra hob space to accommodate busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular, both read more in professional and home kitchens due to their speed safe, reliable, and easy to clean. They work by creating a magnetic coil, with an electrical current running through it, which warms the pan you place on top. This means there's no wasted heat' like with a gas or electric hob which helps keep your bills down.
This Belling hob has dual cooking zones and double rings, which means it can be used for a range of pans and pots. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution make it an absolute hit with testers, who even found the ability to easily change the temperature of the two zones helpful. The only downside is that it takes over 12 minutes for a litre to come to a boil, which can be frustrating for people who are in a hurry.
This Smeg model is a great choice when you're looking for a small alternative. It's light and thin with less than half the size as some of the other models on our list. This makes it simple to store away when not in use. The brushed silver finish looks premium and is a little easier to clean than the more shiny finishes found on other hobs.
It's important to keep in mind that even though these hobs are an ideal alternative to full-sized ones however, they're still hot and could cause burns. It is recommended that you handle the hob with care and put it in a secure location, away from the reach of children and away from areas where people might slip on it. Many models also have a child lock, which is a useful feature to think about if you have kids.