A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance for kitchens that fits into a cutout in the worktop. It can be gas or electric and may have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is easy to clean and has a modern look.
Consumers are looking for smart hobs that can be integrated with home automation systems, and also offer different options for customization. They also seek to improve hygiene and cut down on energy consumption.
Hobs with induction
Induction hobs are sleek and efficient. hobs are among the most popular options for modern kitchens. Unlike gas and electric models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction hobs use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan itself. Under the glass-ceramic top, coils are used to run an alternating current. When a pot that is compatible is placed on the cooking area the coils generate magnetic forces that interact with the metal inside the pot, generating electrical currents as well as heat. Induction hobs are more efficient than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction hobs also have an improved user-friendly design. The top of the appliance has a full TFT display that can be used to control it. It displays the cookware that is currently in use and what power setting you have selected. The control panel may also be locked to prevent accidental use of buttons. A majority of induction hobs come with a boost feature that increases the power of the cooking area for a short time. This feature is helpful to speedily bring the water in a pot to a boil, or heating the pan to sear.
Many induction hobs have a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surfaces seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They are usually black, however some come with other colors that match your kitchen decor. They also come with minimalist controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators to show power levels or other functions.
To get the most from your induction hob you will require cookware that is compatible with induction. The best method to determine if a pan is induction compatible is to run a magnet along its base. If the magnet stays, it's safe to use it on an induction cooker. Many induction hobs feature a pan detection system to avoid overusing energy. The coils are only activated when the pan or pans are in use.
Induction hobs are a good choice for shared homes or student housing because they don't have an open flame. They are also more secure than gas versions. They do make a humming or ticking sound when being used, which may be a nuisance for some.
Gas hobs
A gas stove uses natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to produce the flame that cookware is heated, making it ideal for a variety of cooking methods. They are more efficient in heating up and offer more precise temperature control than electric options like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stand must be cleaned regularly to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems that make use of an electric spark or continuous flame to start the burners and initiate the process of combustion. They then make use of electrical components, like switches and sensors, to control the flow of gas through the system and ensure that the burners are operating properly. The burners can also include various control knobs that can be adjusted to alter the intensity of the flame as well as the output of heat.
Gas hobs come in various models, with one to six burners. Consider the dimensions of your pans when choosing the number, as you'll want to ensure that there are enough burners for all the cookware you plan to use. If you frequently stir-fry, opt for an appliance with a wok burner. Some models come with grilling elements which means you can make tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing gas hobs is the cost of running it. Gas hobs typically have lower initial purchase costs than induction hobs, but operating costs can differ greatly depending on your local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require natural gas supply, as well as ventilation. This could result in higher costs for installation than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are an excellent method of combining two appliances into one unit, saving space in your kitchen and creating a sleeker aesthetic. ovens pull smoke and steam through a duct that is located on the surface of the hob and work much more efficiently than traditional hoods as they are able to collect steam at the cooking level instead of let it rise and spill out into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is a great option if you're looking to increase the space in your kitchen or wish to cook outside. They're designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop and plug into, so they're easy to use and can be carried with you when you want to cook somewhere else. They're also great when you're planning to remodel your kitchen or need more space for your hob during busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both professional and home kitchens because they're fast safe, energy efficient, and easy to clean. They function by creating a magnetic coil, with an electrical current running through it, which heats the pan that you place on top. There is no wasted heat, as it is with a gas hob or electric hob. This will save you money.
This Belling hob has two cooking zones, with a double ring design, and can be used with many different pans and pots. Its intuitive interface and great heat distribution mean it was the most popular choice for test participants, who also liked the capability to easily alter the temperature of the two zones useful. The only downside is that it takes more than 12 minutes for a litre to boil, which can be a hassle for those needing to rush.
If you're looking for a more compact option this model from Smeg might be worth having a look. It is light and thin with less than half the size of some other models on the list. This makes it easy to put away when not in use. Its brushed silver finish looks elegant and is easier to wipe clean than the more shiny finishes on other hobs.
These hobs could be a great, smaller alternative to the larger ones, but they are still hot and can cause serious burns. This is why we suggest careful handling and judicious placement, with the plug away from children and away from areas where someone could fall over it. The majority of models also come with a child lock, which is a useful feature to consider when you have children.