A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance in the kitchen that fits into a cutout on the worktop. It can be gas or electric and could have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is modern in design and is easy to clean.
Consumers are looking for smart hobs that integrate with home automation systems and provide customization options. They also want to cut down on energy consumption and improve hygiene.
Hobs with induction
Streamlined and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most popular choices for modern kitchens. Unlike gas and electric models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction hobs use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass ceramic surface are coils that an alternating current flows through. When a suitable pan is placed on the cooking zone the coils generate magnetic fields that interact with the metal in the pan, generating electrical currents and generating heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs and are easier to clean.
Induction hobs also feature 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 being used, and the power setting you have chosen. The control panel can be locked to stop accidental button pressing. Many induction hobs have a boost function that maximises the potential of the cooking zone for a brief time period to bring a pot of water to the boil or cook in a pan to searing.
Many induction hobs are frameless with the glass ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into your countertop. Induction hobs can be found in different colors to match your kitchen's decor. They also come with sleek controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators that show the power level or other functions.
In order to maximize the performance of your induction cooktop, you'll require cookware that is compatible with induction. If you're trying to determine whether a pan is compatible on an induction stove, run a magnet over the base of the pan. If the magnet adheres to it, then it's compatible. Many induction hobs feature a pan detection system to prevent overuse of energy. The coils will only be activated when a suitable pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs are an excellent choice for shared households or student accommodation since they don't contain an open flame, and are more secure than gas versions. However, they do make an eerie ticking or humming sound during operation that can disturb some people.
Gas hobs
A gas hob makes use of natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to produce the flame that heats your cookware which makes it perfect for a wide range of cooking methods. They are more efficient in heating up and offer better temperature control than electric alternatives such as ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stands need to be cleaned frequently to ensure that everything is clean.
Modern gas hobs utilize electronic ignition systems that utilize an electric spark or a continuous flame to ignite the burners and start the process of combustion. Then, they use electrical components such as sensors and switches to control the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners work correctly. They may also have various control knobs for adjusting the intensity of the flame as well as the output of heat.
Depending on the model you select, gas hobs include anything from one to six burners. When deciding on the number burners, consider the size of the pans you will be using. You'll have to ensure that there are enough for the cookware that you will use. If you are a frequent cook and stir-fry choose a model with a dedicated wok burner. Some models come with griddle elements included, which means you can make a quick and tasty breakfast or lunch.
A key consideration when selecting gas hobs is the cost of running it. Gas hobs are generally cheaper to purchase than induction hobs. However, operating costs can be very different based on the local gas rates and usage. It's important to keep in the mind that a gas hob requires access to natural gas supplies and ventilation, which could increase installation costs over an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs are a fantastic method of combining 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 that is located on the hob's surface, allowing them to work more efficiently than traditional hoods as they're able to capture steam at the level of cooking rather than letting it rise and escape into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
A portable hob is a great option if you're looking to increase the here space in your kitchen or would like to cook outdoors. 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 also come in handy when you're remodeling your kitchen or simply require some extra hob space for busy times.
Induction hobs are increasingly popular in both kitchens that are used for professional or home use, because they are quick safe, reliable, and easy to clean. They work by creating a magnetic coil, with an electrical current flowing through it, which is heated by the pan you place on top. There is no wasted heat, as it would be when using 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 various saucepans and pots. Its intuitive interface, good heat distribution, and the capability to switch the temperature between the two zones made it a favorite among test subjects. The only downside is that it takes over 12 minutes for a litre to come to a boil, which can be a hassle for those in a hurry.
If you're looking for a compact option, this Smeg model might be worth a glance. It is light and thin with less than half the size as some of the other models on our list. This makes it simple to put away when not in use. Its brushed silver finish looks premium and is a little more easy to clean than the shiny finishes on other hobs.
These hobs can be a convenient smaller alternative to larger ones, but they are still hot and can cause serious burns. This is why we recommend cautious handling and careful placement of the plug, keeping it away from children and away from areas where someone could fall over it. The majority of models also come with a child lock, which is a useful feature to consider if you have kids.