A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance that fits into the cutout of a worktop. It can be gas or electric and could have up to six cooking rings or zones. Its design is modern and is easy to clean.
Smart hobs that offer customization and are compatible with home automation systems are of interest to consumers. They also want to lower the amount of energy used and improve hygiene.
Induction hobs
Streamlined 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 hobs use electromagnetic technology to directly heat the pan. Underneath the glass-ceramic surface sit coils that an alternating current runs through. When a pot that is compatible is placed on the cooking area the coils create an electric force that interacts with metal in the pot, creating electric currents and heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs and easier to clean.
Induction hobs also have an easier-to-use design. The top of the appliance features a full TFT display that can be used to control it. It shows what cookware is currently in use, and what power setting you have selected. The control panel may also be locked to prevent accidental use of buttons. Many induction hobs feature a boost feature that increases the power of the cooking zone for a short time. This feature is helpful to quickly bring a pot of boiling water to a boil, or heating the pan to sear.
A lot of induction hobs are frameless with the glass ceramic surface completely integrated into your countertop. They usually come in black, but some offer different colors that complement your kitchen decor. These units also have simple controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators to show power levels or other functions.
To get the most benefit of an induction hob it is necessary to invest in induction-compatible cookware. The best method to determine if a pan is induction compatible is to run a magnet across its base. If the magnet sticks it's safe to use on an induction stove. To prevent over-use of energy, many induction hobs feature pan detection that only activates the coils when a compatible pan is present.
Induction hobs are a good choice for shared homes or student accommodation as they do not have an open flame. They are also safer than gas models. They do make a humming or ticking sound when they are in use, which can be irritating to some.
Gas hobs
A gas stove uses natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to produce the flame that cookware is heated, making it ideal for a wide range of cooking methods. They are more efficient in heating up and provide more precise temperature control than electric options such as ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be messy. Burner caps and wok stands must be removed frequently to ensure that everything is clean.
The majority of modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems, with an electric spark or a continuous electric flame to light the burners and initiate the combustion process. Then, they employ electrical components like switches and sensors to control the flow of gas through the system and to make sure that the burners operate properly. The burners could also have various control knobs that can be adjusted to alter the intensity of the flame as well as the heat output.
Depending on the model you select, gas hobs come with anywhere from one to six burners. Consider the dimensions of your pots when choosing this number, as you'll want to ensure that there are enough burners for the cookware you plan to use. If you frequently stir-fry make sure you choose a pan with a wok burn. Some models have griddles integrated, so you can cook a tasty and quick 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 can be different depending on the local gas rates and use. It is important to keep in the mind that a gas hob requires natural gas and ventilation, which could increase the cost of installation over an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs integrate two appliances into one which saves space while giving your kitchen a more modern look. They remove steam and smoke through a duct located on the surface of the stove which allows for more efficient operation than traditional hoods.
Portable hobs
If you require more hob space in your kitchen, or want to cook outside an outdoor kitchen, a portable stove can be a great choice. They are designed to connect to the kitchen worktop, making them easy to use. You can also bring them with you when you want to cook elsewhere. They can also be useful when you're remodeling your kitchen or just need some extra hob space for busy times.
Induction hob s are becoming increasingly popular in both kitchens for both home and professional use because they are fast safe, efficient, and easy to clean. They work by creating a magnetic coil, with an electric current flowing through it, which is heated by the pan you place on top. This means there's no wasted heat' like with a gas or electric hob, which can help reduce your costs.
This Belling hob comes with two cooking zones, as well as with a double ring design, and can be used with various saucepans and pots. Its intuitive interface and good heat distribution mean it was an absolute hit with testers, who liked the capability to easily change the temperature of the two zones useful. The only issue is that it takes over 12 minutes for a litre to boil, which can be frustrating for those needing to rush.
If you're looking to find a more compact model, this Smeg model might be worth a look. It's thin and light with less than half the size as other models on the list. This makes it easy to store away when not in use. Its brushed-finish looks more expensive and is easier to clean than hobs with a shiny finish.
It's important to note that while these hobs are an excellent alternative to larger ones, they're still hot and could cause burns. This is why we recommend careful handling and sensible placement, with the plug far away from children and away from areas where people could slip over it. Many models also have an option for children's locks which is a helpful feature to consider for parents with children.