A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance for kitchens that is a cutout in the worktop. It can be gas or electric, and can have up to six cooking rings. It is easy to clean and has modern appearance.
Consumers are looking for smart hobs that integrate with home automation systems and provide different options for customization. They also want to improve hygiene and decrease energy consumption.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs that are stylish and efficient, are a popular option for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, in contrast to gas and electric models, which rely on heating plate to heat cookware directly employ electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass ceramic surface are coils which an alternating current flows through. When a suitable pot is placed in the cooking surface the coils generate a magnetic force that interacts with the metal inside the pot, generating electrical currents as well as heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction hobs also feature an improved user-friendly design. A TFT-enabled display at the top of the appliance can be used to control the hob with an obvious indication of which cookware is in use and what power setting is being used. The control panel can also be locked to prevent accidental pressing of buttons. Many induction hobs have a boost feature that can increase the power of the cooking zone for a brief period of time. This is useful to quickly bring boiling water to a boil, or heating a pan to cook.
oven hob have frames that are not visible, and the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They typically come in black, but some offer other colour options that can match your kitchen decor. They often also have minimalist, sleek controls with indicator lights that indicate power levels and other functions.
To maximize the benefits of your induction cooker, you'll require 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 is able to stick it's safe for use it on an induction cooker. To ensure that you don't overuse energy Induction hobs often have pan detection that only activates the coils when a compatible pan is in place.
Induction hobs can be a great choice for shared housing or student apartments because they don't feature an open flame and are more secure than gas versions. They can make a humming noise or ticking sound when being used, which may be a nuisance for some.
Gas hobs
A gas hob uses natural gas or the liquefied petroleum gas to create the flame that cookware is heated, making it ideal for a variety of cooking methods. They are quicker to heat up and offer more precise temperature control than electric alternatives like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stands must be cleaned regularly to ensure that everything is clean.
Modern gas hobs typically use electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or a continuous electric flame to ignite the burners and begin the combustion process. They then use electrical components, such as sensors and switches to control the flow of gas through the system and to ensure that the burners are working correctly. They could also include several control knobs that can be used to alter the flame intensity and the output of heat.
Gas hobs come in a variety of models, with one to six burners. When deciding on the number of burners, think about the size of the pans you will be using. You'll need to make sure you have enough space for the cookware you will use. If you are a frequent cook and stir-fry, opt for a model with a dedicated wok burner. Some models also have griddle elements that are built-in to make an easy and delicious breakfast or lunch.
A key consideration when selecting gas hobs is the cost to run it. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to purchase than induction hobs. However, operating costs may be different based on the local gas rates and the usage. It's important to keep in the mind that a gas hob requires natural gas and ventilation, which can make installation more expensive than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are a fantastic way to combine two appliances into a single unit, which is great for saving space in your kitchen and giving a more sleek appearance. They draw smoke and steam through a duct that is located on the hob's surface and work more effectively than traditional hoods since they can capture steam at the cooking level rather than letting it rise and escape into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is an excellent option if you need more space in your kitchen or would like to cook outdoors. These are designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop and plug in, so they're simple to use and can be carried with you when you want to cook somewhere else. They're also great if you need to renovate 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 and safe, energy efficient, and easy to clean. They function by creating an electric current that flows through a magnetic coil, which warms the pan you place on top. There is no wasted heat as there is with a gas or electric hob. This can help you save money.
This Belling hob comes with two cooking zones, the double ring design can be used with various pots and saucepans. Its intuitive interface, good heat distribution, and the capability to change the temperature between the two zones made it a favorite among test subjects. The only drawback is that it takes more than 12 minutes for a litre to reach a boil, which could be a hassle for those who are in a hurry.
This model from Smeg is a good choice when you're looking for a small 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 like a premium finish and is easier to wipe clean than the shiny finishes on other hobs.
It's important to remember that while these hobs are a convenient alternative to full-sized ones however, they're still hot and can cause burns. This is why we suggest careful handling and judicious placement of the plug, keeping it well out of reach from children and away from areas where people might trip over it. Most models also have a child lock which is a helpful feature to think about when you have children.