A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance that is inserted into the worktop's cutout. It can be gas or electric and could have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is easy to clean and has a modern design.
Smart hobs that allow for customization and are compatible with home automation systems are appealing to consumers. They also want to improve hygiene and reduce energy consumption.
Hobs with induction
Modern and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most popular choices for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to gas and electric models, which rely on heating plate to warm cookware directly employ electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. The glass-ceramic top is where coils are utilized to create an alternation current. When a compatible pan is placed in the cooking zone, the coils automatically create magnetic fields that interact with the metal in the pan, causing electrical currents and creating heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs and are easier to clean.
Induction hobs also feature an easier-to-use design. A TFT-enabled display at the top of the appliance can be used to control the oven, with a clear indication of what cooking equipment is in use and what power setting is being selected. The control panel may also be locked to prevent accidental pressing of buttons. A majority of induction hobs come with an increase feature that boosts the power of the cooking area for a short period of time. This feature is helpful to quickly bring the water in a pot to a boil, or heating the pan to sear.
A lot of induction hobs feature frames that are not visible, and the glass-ceramic surfaces seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They usually come in black, but some offer other colors that match your kitchen decor. They are also typically equipped with minimalist, sleek controls with indicator lights to indicate the power level and other functions.
To get the most out of an induction hob you'll need to purchase cookware that is compatible with induction. If you're trying to determine whether a pan is compatible on an induction stove, simply run a magnet across its base. If the magnet adheres to it, then it's compatible. Many induction hobs have pan detection to prevent overuse of energy. The coils are only activated when an appropriate pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs are ideal for shared households or student accommodation since they don't contain an open flame and are safer than gas versions. However, they do make the sound of ticking or humming when they are operating, which can be a nuisance to some people.
Gas hobs
A gas hob makes use of natural gas or the liquefied petroleum gas to create the flame that heats your cookware which makes it suitable for a variety of cooking methods. Recommended Reading are faster to heat up and offer more precise temperature control than electric options like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stands need to be cleaned frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Most modern gas hobs utilise electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or a continuous electric flame to ignite the burners and initiate the combustion process. Then, they use electrical components, such as sensors and switches to regulate the gas flow through the system and make sure that the burners function correctly. They could also include various control knobs for adjusting the intensity of the flame and heat output.
Gas hobs come in various models, ranging from one to six burners. When deciding on the number of burners, consider the size of the pans you will be using. You'll have to ensure that you have enough space for the cookware that you'll use. If you are a frequent stir-fryer, choose a model that has a dedicated wok burn. Some models have griddles that are integrated, allowing you to cook a tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
A key consideration when selecting a gas hob is the cost of running it. Gas hobs are generally cheaper to purchase than induction hobs. However operating costs may be different depending on local gas rates and usage. Gas hobs require natural gas supply and ventilation. This can lead to higher costs for installation than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are a fantastic option to combine two appliances into one unit, which is great for saving space in your kitchen and creating a sleeker aesthetic. They extract smoke and steam through a duct located on the surface of the stove which allows for more efficient operation than traditional hoods.
Portable hobs
If you require more hob space in your kitchen or want to take your cooking outside the kitchen, a portable hob could be a great choice. They are designed to connect to your kitchen worktop, making them simple to use. You can also bring them with you when you need to cook somewhere else. They also come in handy if you're renovating your kitchen or just need an extra space on your hob for busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both home and professional kitchens as they're quick, safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They function by creating an electric current that flows through a magnetic coil which warms the pan that you place on the top. There is no wasted heat, as it is with a gas or electric hob. This will help you save money.
This Belling hob features dual cooking zones, a double ring design and can be used with various pots and saucepans. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution mean it was the most popular choice for testers, who even liked the capability to easily change the temperature of the two zones useful. The only issue is that it takes over 12 minutes to bring a litre of water to boil, which can be frustrating for people needing to rush.
This Smeg model is a great choice if you want a compact model. It's lightweight and thin - less than half the size of the other models on this list - which makes it easy to store away when not in use. The brushed finish appears more premium and is easier to clean than hobs with a more shiny finish.
These hobs can be a convenient smaller alternative to full-sized versions 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 could fall over it. A lot of models come with a child-lock which is an excellent feature if you have children.