A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an 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. Its design is modern and is easy to clean.
Consumers are interested in smart hobs that integrate with home automation systems, and also offer different options for customization. They also are looking to improve hygiene and decrease energy consumption.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs are sleek and efficient. hobs are among the most popular options for modern kitchens. Contrary to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction hobs utilize electromagnetic technology to heat the pan itself. 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 magnetic forces that interact with the metal in the pot, creating electrical currents and heat. This makes induction hobs much more energy-efficient and easier to clean than traditional hobs.
Induction hobs are also more user-friendly. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance could be used to control the hob with a clear indication of what cooking equipment is in use and what power setting is being used. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental button pressing. Many induction hobs come with a boost function that increases the power of a cooking zone for a brief period of time to bring the boiling water to a boil or prepare a pan for searing.
Many induction hobs have an unframed design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. Some induction hobs are available in different colours to complement the decor of your kitchen. These units also have simple controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators to show power levels or other functions.
To make the most of an induction hob it is necessary to invest in induction-compatible cookware. The best way to determine if a pan is induction compatible is to place an iron rod across its base. If the magnet sticks it's safe to use it on an induction cooker. A majority of induction hobs come with a pan detection system to prevent overuse of energy. The coils are only activated when the pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs can be an excellent choice for shared homes or student housing, as they don't have an open flame and are safer than gas versions. They do make a humming noise or ticking sound when in use, which can be irritating to some.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs use natural gas or the liquefied gas that is used to heat your cookware. They are ideal for many cooking techniques. They are more efficient in heating up and provide more precise temperature control than electric options like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stands need to be cleaned frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
The majority of modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or continuous electric flame to light the burners and start the combustion process. Then, they use electrical components like switches and sensors to control the gas flow through the system and make sure that the burners operate correctly. They could also have a number of control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame and the output of heat.
Gas hobs come in different models, with one to six burners. Take into account the dimensions of your pans when deciding this number, as you'll want to ensure that there are enough burners for the cookware you plan to use. If you often stir-fry then choose a model with a wok burn. Some models come with griddle elements integrated, so you can cook a tasty and quick breakfast or Meal Prep lunch.
The cost of running a gas hob should be a major consideration when choosing one. Gas hobs generally have lower initial purchase prices than induction hobs, but the operating cost can be a bit different dependent on the local gas rates and usage patterns. It is important to keep in the mind that a gas hob requires a natural gas supply and ventilation, which can increase installation costs over an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs combine two appliances into one unit which saves space while giving your kitchen a more modern look. They extract smoke and steam through a duct located on the stove's surface which allows for more efficient operation than traditional hoods.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is an excellent option if you're looking to increase the space in your kitchen or would like to cook outside. They are designed to plug into your kitchen worktop, making them easy to use. You can also take them with you if you need to cook in a different location. They can also be useful if you're renovating your kitchen or simply 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 a magnetic coil, with an electric current flowing through it, which then is heated by the pan you place on the top. There is no wasted heat like there would be when using a gas or electric hob. This will help you save money.
This Belling hob comes with two cooking zones, as well as the double ring design can be used with a variety of saucepans and pots. Its intuitive interface, great heat distribution and the ability to alter the temperature between the two zones made it a favorite among test subjects. The only drawback is that it takes over 12 minutes to bring a litre of water to reach a boil, which could be frustrating for those who are in a hurry.
This Smeg model is a good option for those looking for a compact alternative. It's light and thin with less than half the size of other models on the list. This makes it easy to keep in storage when not in use. The brushed silver finish appears elegant and is easier to clean than the more shiny finishes on other hobs.
It's important to note that even though these hobs are an excellent alternative to larger ones, they're still hot and can cause burns. We recommend careful handling and sensible placement, with the plug far away from children and away from areas where people might slip over it. Many models have a child-lock which is a useful feature when you have children.