A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance for kitchens that fits into a cutout in the worktop. It can be gas or electric and have up to six cooking rings. It has a modern design and is easy to clean.
Smart hobs that can be customized and are compatible with home automation systems are appealing to consumers. They also want to lower energy consumption and improve hygiene.
Hobs with induction
Induction hobs, which are stylish and efficient are a preferred choice for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to gas and electric models that rely on heating plates to warm cookware employ electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass ceramic surface are coils that an alternating current flows through. When a compatible pot is placed on the cooking surface the coils generate an electric force that interacts with the metal in the pot, generating electrical currents as well as heat. Induction hobs are more efficient than traditional hobs and are easier to clean.
Induction hobs also feature an easier-to-use design. The top of the appliance is an all-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 also be secured to prevent accidental pressing of buttons. A majority of induction hobs come with an increase feature that boosts the power of the cooking area for a brief period of time. This feature is helpful for quickly bringing boiling water to a boil, or heating a pan to cook.
Many induction hobs come with a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. Some induction hobs are available in different colors to match your kitchen decor. They also often have sleek, minimalist controls with indicators lights to show the level of power and other functions.
To get the most from your induction hob you will need to use induction-compatible cookware. If you're interested in knowing whether a pan is compatible on an induction stove, run a magnet across its base. If the magnet sticks 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 are only activated when a suitable pan or pans are in use.
Induction hobs can be ideal for shared homes or student housing, as they don't have an open flame and are more secure than gas versions. However, they can produce the sound of ticking or humming when they are operating, which can be a nuisance to some people.
Gas hobs
A gas stove uses natural gas or liquid petroleum gas to create the flame that cookware is heated, making it ideal for a variety of cooking methods. They offer precise temperature control and are also quicker to heat up than other electric alternatives, like ceramic hobs. They can sometimes be a bit messy to clean, with burner caps and wok stands needing to be cleaned frequently to make sure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Modern gas hobs typically use electronic ignition systems, with an electric spark or a continuous electric flame to light the burners and start the combustion process. 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 correctly. They may also have several control knobs that can be used to alter the flame intensity and heat output.
Depending on the model that you select, gas hobs come with anywhere from one to six burners. When deciding on the number of burners, consider the size of the pans you will be using. You'll have to ensure that you have enough space for the cookware that you'll be using. If speaking of do stir-frys, opt for an appliance with a wok burner. Some models have griddles that are integrated, allowing you to cook a tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
The cost of running a gas hob should be a key factor when choosing one. Gas hobs typically have lower initial purchase costs than induction hobs. However, operating costs can vary widely dependent on the local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require a natural gas supply, and ventilation. This could result in more expensive installation costs than an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs are an excellent option to combine two appliances into a single unit, which is great for saving space in your kitchen and creating a sleeker aesthetic. They extract steam and smoke through a duct that is located on the surface of the hob which allows them to operate much more efficient than traditional hoods because they are able to collect steam at the cooking level rather than let it rise and spill out into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is an excellent alternative if you require more space in your kitchen or want to cook outdoors. These are designed to sit on your kitchen worktop and plug into, so they're simple to use and carry with you when you want to cook in another location. They're also great for those who want to revamp your kitchen, or just want to have more space on your hob in busy times.
Induction hobs have become increasingly popular, both in professional and home kitchens, because they are quick safe, reliable, and easy to clean. They function by creating an electric current that flows through a magnetic coil which then heats the pan you put on the top. This means there's no wasted heat' like with gas or electric hobs, which can help reduce your costs.
This Belling hob features dual cooking zones and a double ring design so can be used with a range of pots and pans. Its intuitive interface and great heat distribution make it a favourite among testers, who found the ability to easily alter the temperature of the two zones helpful. The only issue was that it took over 12 minutes to boil a litre of water, which could be frustrating for those who are pressed for time.
This model from Smeg is a great choice if you want a compact alternative. It's thin and light and is less than half the size of other models on the list. This makes it simple to put away when not in use. Its brushed finish looks more professional and is much easier to clean than other hobs with a more shiny finish.
It's important to keep in mind that even though these hobs are an excellent alternative to larger ones but they're still extremely hot and could cause burns. We suggest careful handling and judicious placement, with the plug far away from children and away from areas where someone could fall over it. Most models also have a child lock, which is a useful feature to consider for parents with children.