A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits inside the cutouts of a worktop. It can be electric or gas and could have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is modern in design and is easy to clean.
The market is flooded with smart hobs that can be integrated with home automation systems and provide the possibility of customization. They also want to cut down on the use of energy and improve hygiene.
Induction hobs
Modern and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most sought-after options for modern kitchens. Unlike gas and electric models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction stoves employ electromagnetic technology to directly heat the pan itself. On top of the glass ceramic, coils are utilized to create an alternating current. When a suitable pot is placed on the cooking surface the coils create magnetic forces that interact with the metal in the pot, generating electrical currents and heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction hobs Uk also come with an improved user-friendly design. A TFT-enabled display at the top of the appliance could be used to control the oven, with an easy-to-read display of what cookware is in use and what power setting is being selected. The control panel can be locked to stop accidental button pressing. Many induction hobs have a boost function that maximises the power of a cooking zone for a short period of time to bring an entire pot of boiling water to a boil or cook in a pan to searing.
A lot of induction hobs feature an unframed design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They usually come in black, but some offer other colors that be matched to your kitchen's decor. They also often have sleek, minimalist controls with indicator lights to indicate power levels and other functions.
To get the most out of an induction hob it is necessary to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. If you're trying to determine if a pan will work on an induction stove, run an iron over the base of the pan. If the magnet sticks to it, then it is compatible. To prevent over-use of energy the majority of induction hobs have a pan detection system that only activates the coils when a suitable pan is present.
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 used, which can be irritating to some.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs make use of natural gas or liquefied petrol gas to heat your cookware. They are suitable for a variety of cooking methods. They are quicker to heat up and offer better temperature control than electric options 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 a continuous flame to ignite the burners and begin the process of combustion. Then, they employ electrical components like sensors and switches to control the flow of gas through the system and to make sure that the burners function correctly. The burners may also have numerous control knobs to adjust the intensity of the flame and output of heat.
Based on the model you choose, gas hobs can come with anywhere between one and six burners. When deciding on the number of burners, think about the size of the pans that you will be using. You'll have to ensure that you have enough space to accommodate the cookware you'll use. If you often stir-fry make sure you choose a pan that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models also come with grilling elements to cook up a quick and delicious breakfast or lunch.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a gas hob is the cost to run it. Gas hobs are generally cheaper to purchase than induction hobs. However operating costs may be different depending on local gas rates and use. It's also worth bearing in the mind that a gas hob requires access to natural gas supplies and ventilation, which can increase the cost of installation over an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs are an excellent option to combine two appliances into one unit, which is great for saving space in your kitchen and creating a sleeker aesthetic. They pull smoke and steam through a duct on the hob's surface which allows them to operate much more efficiently than traditional hoods as they can capture steam at the cooking level instead of permitting it to rise and spill out into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is a great alternative if you require more space in your kitchen or want to cook outside. They are designed to plug into your kitchen worktop, making them simple to use. You can also take them with you if you need to cook elsewhere. These are also useful 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 residential and commercial kitchens as they're quick safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They function by creating a magnetic coil, with an electrical current running through it, which then heats the pan that you place on the top. There isn't any wasted heat like there is with a gas or electric hob. This can help you save money.
This Belling hob has two cooking zones, as well as a double ring design and can be used with a variety of pots and saucepans. Its intuitive interface and good heat distribution made it an absolute hit with testers, who even appreciated the ability to change the temperature of the two zones useful. The only issue is that it takes more than 12 minutes for a litre to boil, which can be a hassle for those who are in a hurry.
If you're looking to find a more compact option the Smeg model could be worth a glance. It's lightweight and thin - less than half the size of the other models on this list, making it easy to store away when not in use. Its brushed silver finish looks elegant and is more easy to clean than the shiny finishes on other hobs.
It's important to keep in mind that although these hobs can be an ideal alternative to full-sized ones, they're still hot and can cause burns. It is recommended that you handle the hob with care and keep it in a secure location away from children's reach and from areas where someone could fall over it. Many models also have an option for children's locks that is a great feature to consider when you have children.