A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance that fits inside the cutouts of a worktop. It can be gas or electric and can have one to six cooking rings or zones. Its design is modern and is easy to clean.
Consumers are looking for smart hobs that integrate with home automation systems and offer different options for customization. They also are looking to improve hygiene and reduce energy consumption.
Induction hobs
Induction hobs which 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 which an alternating current flows through. When a pan that is compatible is placed in the cooking zone the coils generate an electric field that interacts with the metal in the pan, generating electrical currents and creating heat. Induction hobs are more energy-efficient than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction hobs also have a more user-friendly design. The top of the appliance has a full TFT display that can be used to control it. It shows what cookware is currently in use and the power setting that you have chosen. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental button pressing. Many induction hobs come with an increase function that boosts the effectiveness of a cooking zone for a short time period to bring an entire pot of boiling water to cook in a pan to searing.
A lot of induction hobs feature a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surfaces seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They typically come in black, however some come with other colors that complement your kitchen decor. They are also typically equipped with minimalist, sleek controls with indicator lights to indicate power levels and other functions.
To get the most out of an induction cooker, you'll need to purchase cookware that is compatible with induction. If you're interested in knowing whether a pan is compatible on an induction stove, simply run a magnet across the base of the pan. If the magnet sticks to it, then it is compatible. Many induction hobs feature pan detection to ensure that they don't use too much energy. The coils will only be activated when the pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs can be ideal for shared homes or student housing since they don't contain an open flame, and are safer than gas versions. However, they can produce an eerie ticking or humming sound in operation, which may irritate some people.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs utilize natural gas or the liquefied gas that is used to heat your cookware. They are suitable for cooking with a variety of techniques. They are more efficient in heating up and provide more precise temperature control than electric alternatives like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stand must be removed frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or continuous flame to ignite the burners and start the process of combustion. Then, they employ electrical components, such as sensors and switches to regulate the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners operate properly. They could also have various control knobs for adjusting the flame intensity and the output of heat.
Depending on the model that you choose, gas hobs come with anywhere between one and six burners. When deciding on the number burners, think about the size of the pans that you will be using. You'll have to ensure that there are enough for the cookware you'll be using. If you frequently stir-fry make sure you choose a pan that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models have griddle elements included, which means you can make a delicious and quick breakfast or lunch.
The cost of running a gas hob is a crucial factor when deciding on 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, as well as ventilation. This could result in higher costs for installation than an induction or electric hob.
best hobs are an excellent way to combine two appliances into a single unit, which is great for saving space in your kitchen and creating a sleeker aesthetic. They draw smoke and steam through a duct in the hob's surface, allowing them to work much more efficient than traditional hoods because they're able to capture steam at the level of cooking rather than letting it rise and escape into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
If you require more hob space in your kitchen or want to take your cooking outside, a portable hob can be a great choice. These are designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop and plug in, so they're a breeze to use and can be carried with you when you have to cook somewhere else. They are also useful when you're remodeling your kitchen or simply need some extra hob space for busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming more popular in both professional and home kitchens due to their speed and safe, energy 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 isn't any wasted heat, as it is with a gas hob or electric hob. This can save you money.
This Belling hob has dual cooking zones and double ring design so can be used with many different pans and pots. Its intuitive interface and great heat distribution made it a favourite among testers, who appreciated the ability to alter the temperature of the two zones useful. The only issue was that it took more than 12 minutes to boil one liter of water, which can be a hassle for those who are pressed for time.
If you're looking for a more compact model this model from Smeg might be worth having a look. It's thin and light - less than half the size of the other models on this list. This makes it easy to store when not in use. The brushed silver finish appears like a premium finish and is easier to wipe clean than the more shiny finishes found on other hobs.
These hobs could be a great smaller alternative to full-sized versions however, they are hot and can cause serious burns. We suggest handling the hob with care and put it in a secure location far from children's reach, and away from areas where someone could fall over it. Many models also have a child lock which is a helpful feature to think about when you have children.