A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits into the cutout of a worktop. It can be electric or gas and could have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is easy to clean and has a modern appearance.
Smart hobs that allow for customization and are compatible with home automation systems are attractive to consumers. They also are looking to improve hygiene and decrease energy consumption.
Induction hobs
Modern and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most popular options for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to electric and gas models that rely on heating plate to heat cookware directly make use of electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass-ceramic surface are coils that an alternating current flows through. When a compatible pot is placed on the cooking area the coils generate an electric force that interacts with the metal inside the pot, creating electric currents and heat. Induction hobs are more energy-efficient than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction hobs also feature an improved user-friendly design. The top of the appliance features an entire TFT display that can be used to control it. It displays what cookware is currently in use and the power setting you have selected. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental pressing of buttons. A majority of induction hobs come with a boost feature that increases the power of the cooking zone for a short period of time. This feature is helpful to quickly bring a pot of boiling water to a boil, or heating a pan to sear.
A lot of induction hobs feature a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surfaces seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They usually come in black, but some have different colors that be matched to your kitchen's decor. These units also have sleek controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators that show the power level or other functions.
To get the most out of an induction cooker, you'll need to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. The best way to determine whether a pan is compatible is to place a magnet across its base; if the magnet stays it's safe for use it on an induction cooker. To prevent over-use of energy, many induction hobs feature pan detection that only activates the coils when a suitable pan is available.
Induction hobs are an excellent option for shared homes or student accommodation as they do not have an open flame. oven are also safer than gas models. They do make a humming or ticking sound when they are in use, which can be a nuisance for some.
Gas hobs
A gas hob makes use of natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to produce the flame that heats your cookware which makes it perfect for a wide range of cooking methods. They offer precise temperature control and are also quicker to heat up than electric alternatives like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stands need to be removed frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
The majority of modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems, which use an electric spark or a continuous electric flame to light the burners and start the combustion process. Then, they use electrical components such as sensors and switches to control the gas flow through the system and to make sure that the burners function properly. The burners can also include various control knobs that can be adjusted to alter the intensity of the flame and heat output.
Based on the model you choose, gas hobs can have anywhere between one and six burners. Consider the size of your pots when choosing this number, since you'll want to make sure there are enough burners for the cookware you plan to use. If you are a frequent stir-fryer then choose a model that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models come with grilling elements, so you can cook up tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a gas hob is the cost of running it. Gas hobs generally come with lower initial costs than induction hobs, but the operating cost can be a bit different depending on your local gas rates and usage patterns. It's also worth bearing in that a gas-powered hob requires natural gas supplies and ventilation, which may make installation more expensive than an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs are a combination of two appliances in one unit, saving you space and giving your kitchen a more modern appearance. They extract steam and smoke through a duct that is located on the surface of the hob which allows them to operate more efficiently than traditional hoods as they're able to capture steam at the cooking level instead of let 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 would like to cook outside. They're designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop and plug in, so they're simple to use and can be carried with you when you want to cook somewhere else. They are also useful in the event that you're planning to renovate your kitchen or just need an extra space on your hob to accommodate busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both home and professional kitchens due to their speed safe, energy efficient, and easy to clean. They work by creating an electric current which flows through a magnetic coil, which warms the pan you place on the top. There isn't any wasted heat, as it would be with a gas or electric hob. This can help you save money.
This Belling hob has two cooking zones, with a double ring design, and can be used with a variety of saucepans and pots. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution make it a favourite among test participants, who also appreciated the ability to change the temperature of the two zones useful. The only issue is that it takes more than 12 minutes for a litre to boil, which can be frustrating for those in a hurry.
This Smeg model is a good choice when you're looking for a small alternative. It's light and thin - less than half the size of the other models on this list. This makes it easy to store away when not in use. Its brushed-finish looks more expensive and is more easy to clean than hobs with a shiny finish.
These hobs may be a great smaller alternative to larger ones however, they are hot and can cause serious burns. We recommend that you handle the hob with care and put it in a safe place away from children's reach and from areas where people might fall over it. Most models also have a child lock that is a great feature to think about for parents with children.