A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance that fits inside the cutout of a worktop. It can be electric or gas, and have up to six cooking rings. It is easy to clean and has a a modern look.
Smart hobs that can be customized and are compatible with home automation systems are of interest to consumers. They also seek to improve hygiene and reduce energy consumption.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs that are elegant and efficient are a popular option for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, unlike gas and electric models that rely on heating plate to warm cookware, use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass-ceramic surface are coils that an alternating current flows through. When a pan that is compatible is placed on the cooking area the coils create magnetic fields that interact with the metal inside the pan, generating electrical currents, and producing heat. This process makes induction hobs energy-efficient and easier to clean than traditional hob types.
Induction hobs also feature an easier-to-use design. A TFT-enabled display at the top of the appliance can be used to control the oven, with a clear indication of what cooking equipment is in use and the power setting being used. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental button pushing and many induction hobs include a boost function that increases the power of a cooking zone for a short period of time to bring a pot of water to the boil or cook in a pan to searing.
A lot of induction hobs are frameless, with the glass ceramic surface that is seamlessly integrated into your countertop. They usually come in black, but some have other colors that complement your kitchen decor. They also come with simple controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators to show power levels or other functions.
To maximize the performance of your induction cooker, you'll need to use induction-compatible cookware. The best hob way to check whether a pan is compatible is to run a magnet across its base. If the magnet is able to stick it's safe for use on an induction hob. A majority of induction hobs come with pan detection to avoid overusing energy. The coils are only activated when a suitable pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs are ideal for shared housing or student apartments, as they don't have an open flame and are more secure than gas versions. However, they do produce a humming or ticking noise during operation that can disturb some people.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs make use of natural gas or propane gas that has been liquefied to heat your cookware. They are perfect for a variety of cooking methods. They offer precise temperature control and are more efficient in heating than electric alternatives like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stands must be cleaned regularly to ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
The majority of modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems, which use an electric spark or continuous electric flame to light the burners and start the combustion process. They then make use of electrical components, including switches and sensors to control the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners are working properly. They may also have various 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. Consider the size of your pots when choosing this number, as you'll need to make sure that there are enough burners for all the cookware you plan to use. If you frequently stir-fry then choose a model that has a dedicated wok burn. Some models have griddles integrated, so you can cook a tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
A major consideration when choosing gas hobs is the cost to run it. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to purchase than induction hobs. However, operating costs can be very different based on the local gas rates and usage. It is important to keep in mind that a gas hob requires access to a natural gas supply and ventilation, which can increase the cost of installation over an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are an excellent method of combining two appliances into one unit, reducing space in your kitchen while giving a more sleek appearance. They draw smoke and steam through a duct on the hob's surface, allowing them to work more efficiently than traditional hoods as they can capture steam at cooking level rather than permitting it to rise and spill out into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is an excellent option if you're looking to increase the space in your kitchen or want to cook outdoors. They're designed to be placed on your kitchen counter and plug into, so they're a breeze to use and take with you when you need to cook in another location. They're also great for those who want to revamp your kitchen or simply want more hob space during busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both professional and home kitchens because they're fast, safe, energy efficient, and easy to clean. They function by creating a magnetic coil, with an electric current flowing through it, which then heats the pan that you place on the top. There is no wasted heat as there would be with a gas or electric hob. This can help you save money.
This Belling hob features two cooking zones as well as a double rings, which means it can be used to cook many different pans and pots. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution make it an absolute hit with testers, who liked the capability to easily change the temperature of the two zones useful. The only drawback is that it takes more than 12 minutes to bring a litre of water to reach a boil, which could be a hassle for those needing to rush.
This Smeg model is a good option when you're looking for a small alternative. It's light and thin - less than half the size of some of the other models on this list - which makes it easy to store away when not in use. The brushed finish appears more professional and is much easier to clean than hobs with a more shiny finish.
It's important to note that although these hobs can be an ideal alternative to full-sized ones however, they're still hot and can cause burns. We recommend that you handle the hob with care and keep it in a safe location, away from the reach of children and away from places where people could fall over it. Most models also have an option for children's locks that is a great feature to consider when you have children.