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 may have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is easy to clean and has a a modern look.
Smart hobs that offer customization and are compatible with home automation systems are of interest to consumers. They also want to improve hygiene and decrease energy consumption.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs which are stylish and efficient are a popular option for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, unlike gas and electric models, which rely on heating plates 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 suitable pot is placed on the cooking area the coils create a magnetic force that interacts with the metal in the pot, generating electrical currents as well as heat. Induction hobs are more efficient than traditional hobs and easier to clean.
Induction hobs also feature an improved user-friendly design. The top of the appliance is a full TFT display that can be used to control it. It shows what cookware is currently being used, and the power setting you have selected. The control panel can be secured to prevent accidental pressing of buttons. A majority of induction hobs come with an increase feature that boosts the power of the cooking zone for a short time. This is useful to quickly bring the water in a pot to a boil, or heating a pan to sear.
Many induction hobs are frameless with the glass ceramic surface that is seamlessly integrated into your countertop. They are usually black, but some offer other colour options that can complement your kitchen decor. They are also typically equipped with minimalist, sleek controls with indicator lights to indicate the level of power and other functions.
To get the most out of an induction cooker it is necessary to invest in induction-compatible cookware. If you want to know if a pan will work on an induction stove, run an iron over its base. If the magnet adheres to it, then it is compatible. To avoid overusing energy Induction hobs often have pan detection systems that only activates the coils if a suitable pan is present.
Induction hobs are a great option for shared homes or student accommodation as they don't have an open flame. They are also more secure than gas versions. They can make a humming noise or ticking sound when they are in use, which can be irritating to 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 are precise in temperature control, and are more efficient in heating than electric alternatives like ceramic hobs. They can sometimes be a bit messy to clean, with burner caps and wok stands needing to be removed regularly to ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
Modern gas hobs utilize electronic ignition systems that make use of an electric spark or a continuous flame to ignite the burners and start the process of combustion. Then, they employ electrical components, such as switches and sensors to control the flow of gas through the system and to make sure that the burners work properly. They could also include a number of control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame as well as heat output.
Depending on the model you select, gas hobs come with anywhere between one and six burners. When deciding on the number burners, take into account the dimensions of the pans you will be using. You'll need to make sure there are enough to accommodate the cookware you'll be using. If you are a frequent cook and stir-fry choose one with a dedicated wok burner. Some models also have griddle elements that are built-in which means you can prepare tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
A major consideration when choosing gas hobs 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 use. Gas hobs require natural gas supply and ventilation. This could lead to higher installation costs than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are a combination of two appliances into one which saves space while giving your kitchen a more modern appearance. They pull smoke and steam through a duct on the hob's surface which allows them to operate much more efficiently than traditional hoods as they are able to collect steam at the level of cooking rather than let it rise and escape into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
If you require more hob space in your kitchen or want to cook outside an outdoor kitchen, a portable stove can be a good option. These are designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop and plug in, so they're simple to use and carry with you when you need to cook elsewhere. 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 increasingly popular in read more both kitchens that are used for professional or home use because they are fast safe, efficient, and easy to clean. They function by creating an electric current which flows through a magnetic coil, which warms the pan you put on top. There isn't any wasted heat as there is with a gas or electric hob. This will help you save money.
This Belling hob has dual cooking zones and a double ring design so can be used for many different pots and pans. Its intuitive interface and great heat distribution made it a favourite among testers, who even liked the capability to easily change the temperature of the two zones beneficial. The only downside was that it took more than 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which could be frustrating for those who are pressed for time.
This Smeg model is a good choice if you want a compact alternative. It's light and thin, 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 finish appears more expensive and is more easy to clean than hobs with a shiny finish.
It's important to keep in mind that while these hobs are an excellent alternative to larger ones however, they're still hot and can cause burns. We recommend that you handle the hob carefully and place it in a safe location far from children's reach, and away from areas where people might fall over it. A lot of models come with a child-lock, which can be useful when you have children.