A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits inside the cutout 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.
The market is flooded with smart hobs that can be integrated with home automation systems and offer different options for customization. They also want to cut down on energy consumption and improve hygiene.
Hobs with induction
Induction hobs which are elegant and efficient are a popular option for modern kitchens. Contrary to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to warm cookware, induction stoves employ electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. The glass-ceramic top is where coils are utilized to create an alternation current. When a suitable pot is placed on the cooking surface the coils create a magnetic force that interacts with metal in the pot, generating electrical currents and heat. This makes induction hobs much more efficient in terms of energy and cleaner than traditional hob types.
Induction hobs are also user-friendly. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance can be used to control the hob, with an easy-to-read display of what cookware is in use and the power setting being selected. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental button pushing and many induction hobs come with an increase function that boosts the power of a cooking zone for a short period of time to bring the boiling water to heat a pan for searing.
Many induction hobs come with a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly incorporated into the countertop. They usually come in black, but some have other colors that complement your kitchen decor. They also often have minimalist, sleek controls that have indicators lights to show power levels and other functions.
To make the most of an induction cooker it is necessary to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. The best method to determine whether a pot is compatible is to place a magnet across its base. If best ovens and hobs uk stays it's safe to use it on an induction cooker. To prevent over-use of energy the majority of induction hobs have pan detection that only activates the coils when a compatible pan is present.
Induction hobs are a good option for shared homes and student accommodation since they do not feature an open flame. They are also more secure than gas models. However, they do produce the sound of ticking or humming when they are operating, which can be a nuisance to certain people.
Gas hobs
A gas stove uses natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to produce the flame that heats your cookware which makes it perfect for a variety of cooking techniques. They are quicker to heat up and provide more precise temperature control than electric alternatives like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stand must be removed frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Modern gas hobs are equipped with electronic ignition systems that utilize an electric spark or continuous flame to ignite the burners and begin the process of combustion. Then, they employ electrical components like sensors and switches to regulate the gas flow through the system and to make sure that the burners work correctly. The burners may also have numerous control knobs to adjust the intensity of the flame and output of heat.
Depending on the model that you select, gas hobs have anywhere from one to six burners. Consider the size of your pans when choosing the number, as you'll want to ensure that there are enough burners to accommodate the cookware you plan to use. If you are a frequent cook and stir-fry then you should choose a model with a dedicated wok burner. Some models have griddles integrated, so you can cook a tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
The cost of running a gas hob should be a major consideration when selecting one. Gas hobs are generally cheaper to purchase than induction hobs. However, operating costs can be different based on the local gas rates and usage. Gas hobs require a natural gas supply and ventilation. This could result in higher costs for installation than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs integrate two appliances in one unit making space for them and giving your kitchen a more modern look. They draw smoke and steam through a duct in the hob's surface and work much more efficiently than traditional hoods as they are able to collect steam at the cooking level instead of letting it rise and spill out into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is a great option if you need more space in your kitchen or want to cook outside. They are designed to sit on your kitchen worktop and plug in, which means they're a breeze to use and take with you when you need to cook elsewhere. They can also be useful when you're remodeling your kitchen or simply require some extra hob space to accommodate busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both professional and home kitchens due to their speed and safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They function by creating a magnetic coil that has an electric current flowing through it, which heats the pan that you place on top. This means there's no 'wasted heat' like with gas or electric hobs, which can help reduce your costs.
This Belling hob has two cooking zones, with a double ring design, and can be used with various pots and saucepans. Its intuitive interface and great heat distribution mean it was a favourite among testers, who even appreciated the ability to alter the temperature of the two zones helpful. The only drawback was that it took more than 12 minutes to boil one liter of water, which can be a hassle for those with a tight schedule.
This model from Smeg is a good option if you want a compact alternative. It is light and thin and is less than half the size of some other models on the list. This makes it easy to store away when not in use. The brushed silver finish looks premium and is a little easier to wipe clean than the more shiny finishes found on other hobs.
It's important to keep in mind that although these hobs can be an excellent alternative to larger ones but they're still extremely hot and could cause burns. We recommend 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 trip over it. Many models also have a child lock, which is a useful feature to think about if you have kids.