A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance for kitchens that fits into a cutout on the worktop. It can be electric or gas, and have up to six cooking rings. It is easy to clean and has a modern look.
Smart hobs that allow for customization and are compatible with home automation systems are of interest to consumers. They also are looking to improve hygiene and reduce energy consumption.
Hobs with induction
Modern and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most sought-after options for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to warm cookware, use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. On top of the glass ceramic, coils are utilized to create an alternating current. When a pot that is compatible is placed on the cooking area, the coils create a magnetic force that interacts with the metal in the pot, generating electric currents and heat. Induction hobs are more efficient than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction hobs are also user-friendly. The top of the appliance is an all-TFT display that can be used to control it. It shows what cookware is currently being used, and the power setting that you have chosen. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental use of buttons. Many induction hobs have an increase feature that boosts the power of the cooking zone for a short period of time. This feature is helpful to speedily bring a pot of boiling water to a boil or heating the pan to sear.
Many induction hobs come with a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surfaces seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They usually come in black, but some offer other colour options that can complement your kitchen decor. These units also come with simple controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators to indicate power levels or other functions.
To make the most of an induction hob, you'll need to purchase cookware that is compatible with induction. If you want to know whether a particular pan can work on an induction stove, run an iron over its base. If the magnet adheres to it, then it is compatible. Many induction hobs feature pan detection systems to ensure that they don't use too much energy. The coils will only be activated when an appropriate pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs can be an excellent choice for shared households or student accommodation, as they don't have an open flame, and are safer than gas versions. They can make a humming or ticking sound when they are being used, which may be annoying to some people.
Gas hobs
A gas hob uses natural gas or the liquefied petroleum gas to create the flame that heats your cookware, making it ideal for a wide range of cooking techniques. They are quicker to heat up and provide more precise temperature control than electric options such as ceramic hobs. They can sometimes be a bit messy to clean, with burner caps and wok stand needing to be cleaned regularly to make sure that everything is clean.
The majority of modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems, with an electric spark or a continuous electric flame to ignite the burners and begin the combustion process. They use electrical components, like sensors and switches to control the flow of gas through the system and ensure that the burners are working correctly. They could also include a number of control knobs to adjust the flame intensity and the output of heat.
Depending on the model you select, gas hobs have anywhere between one and six burners. When deciding on the number of burners, think about the dimensions of the pans you will be using. You'll need to make sure you have enough space for the cookware you'll use. If you often do stir-frys, opt for an appliance with a wok burner. Some models also come with griddle elements built in which means you can cook up tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
The cost of operating a gas hob should be a key factor when selecting one. Gas hobs generally come with lower initial costs than induction hobs. However, operating costs can vary widely depending on your local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require natural gas supply, and ventilation. This can lead to more expensive installation costs than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are an excellent way to combine two appliances into a single unit, which is great for saving space in your kitchen while creating a sleeker appearance. They remove steam and smoke through a duct located on the surface of the stove 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 want to cook outside. They are designed to plug into your kitchen worktop, making them easy to use. You can also bring them with you when you want to cook elsewhere. These are also useful for those who want to revamp your kitchen or need more space for your hob during busy times.
Induction hobs have become increasingly popular in both professional and home kitchens because they are fast safe, efficient, and easy to clean. They work by creating an electric current which flows through a magnetic coil which heats up the pan that you place on top. There is no wasted heat, as it would be with a gas hob or electric hob. This can help you save money.
This Belling hob features dual cooking zones, a double ring design and can be used with various pots and saucepans. Its intuitive interface, great heat distribution and the ability to alter the temperature between the two zones made it a favorite among testers. The only issue is that it takes more than 12 minutes for a litre to boil, which can be frustrating for those needing to rush.
This Smeg model is a good choice if you want a compact option. It's light and thin - less than half the size of some of the other models on this list, making it easy to store away when not in use. The brushed silver finish appears elegant and is easier to clean than the shiny finishes on other hobs.
It's important to keep in mind that while these hobs are an ideal alternative to full-sized ones but they're still extremely hot and could cause burns. We suggest handling the hob carefully and place it in a safe place far from children's reach, and away from areas where people might trip over it. Many models also have an oven and hob option for children's locks, which is a useful feature to consider when you have children.