A Guide to Ovens and Hobs
Ovens and hobs add modern, sleek style to any kitchen and can be neatly integrated into your kitchen worktops and units. Explore our complete range of ovens and hobs today.
Electric hobs are heated by a variety of 'cooking ring' designs that have between four and six different power levels. They can take a while to warm up and cool down.
Types of hobs
Each home is incomplete without a kitchen hob, range cooker, or stovetop (the latter is a complete cooking appliance that can bake and roast food). It is used to prepare many different meals, and as such, it's important that you select the best hob to suit your cooking style. There's a type of hob for everyone, whether you're a master cook who is a perfectionist or a busy home cook seeking speed.
Electric ceramic and induction stoves are frameless and flat and add to the sleek look of any kitchen. Each of the five or four zones can be controlled using a separate dial. You can boil potatoes on one ring while sauteing sausages on another. This is perfect for busy families. They heat quickly, and their smooth surface makes them easy to clean. They can be more costly than gas hobs and might take longer to heat up and cool down.
Gas hobs are a favorite among chefs because they provide instant heat and provide precise control. Gas hobs are also safer because they are equipped with safety systems for fire failures that stop the gas supply in the event there is a leak. However, they're less efficient than induction or electric hobs and are more difficult to clean due to the pan supports and burners.
Plate hobs are the classic type of hob that has been in use for many years. They have a flat top that has gas or electric rings that heat when you turn the dial. They are affordable, but not the best choice for cookware made of cast iron as they don't evenly spread heat across the entire surface.
Induction hobs utilize an electromagnetic field to heat your pan rather than heating the hob surface like traditional hobs. They are safer as there is no open flame. They're also simple to clean. They're also more expensive and take longer to cool and heat than gas or electricity hobs.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs are a popular choice for home cooks due to of their speedy heating capabilities as well as their ease of control. There are usually models that offer between two and six burners. Some models come with a wok burner for stir-frying cooking. Others have a visual flame indicator that indicates whether the hob is on or off.
They heat food quicker than electric or induction models, making them ideal for busy kitchens. They are also cheaper to run than electric hobs in the event that you are using electricity from a provider which generates renewable energy sources.
You can pick between built-in or freestanding gas hobs. The latter are the best choice for those who are planning to renovate your kitchen since they can be moved easily later. They can be difficult to install and could require you to rip out your finished carpentry. This is not suitable for every home.
Freestanding models feature a smooth, flat surface which makes them easier to clean than other types of hobs. Stainless steel trims are often employed, and can be used in conjunction with a variety of kitchen designs. Some models have control knobs that are touch-sensitive and some have a the power boost feature, which increases the intensity of the burner by 50%.
Some gas hobs feature an automatic safety system that will shut off the supply of gas once the flame ceases to burn to ensure that you aren't at risk of creating a fire by accident. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to run than electric ones, and they allow for precise temperature control.
Gas hobs emit carbon dioxide when they burn. This can be a problem for eco-conscious customers. There are models that do not emit CO2 while in use. They are referred to as 'zero emission gas hobs' or eco-friendly gas hobs, they still have all the features that are typical of gas models, but emit no CO2 whatsoever while operating.
Electric hobs
A popular option for kitchens of all styles electric hobs have numerous advantages over other types of cookers. Electric hobs can heat up and cool off quicker than gas hobs. This means that less residual heat remains after the cookware is removed. They also heat more consistently and are less susceptible to hot spots than gas models. Electric models are also easier to maintain and cost less to run than gas models.
Typically found in modern kitchens ceramic or glass electric hobs have an elegant and fashionable appearance that's easy to clean and read more safe to contact. Their flat surface also makes them a popular option for families with children, as they're unlikely to be scratched or smashed by heavy pans. They're also relatively cheap to run and are easily replaced in the event of damage.
Ceramic hobs are able to heat directly the pan, in contrast to traditional plate hobs that use coils to heat the pan. This means that they heat up and cool down faster, and can be used with any kind of cookware. They're typically more expensive than electric plate hobs however they'll help you save money on energy costs in the long run because of their high efficiency and the way they convert nearly all electrical energy into usable heat.
Despite their simple design, it is important to maintain your ceramic or glass hob to avoid any issues. For example, cleaning the cooktop with a non-abrasive cleaning solution is recommended, as is checking and replacing damaged heating controls and regularly clearing out the grates and burner caps. Keep an eye out for gas smells, as they could indicate a problem in the gas lines or leaks. If you suspect this, it's recommended to seek out a professional in gas to seek assistance. Always make sure that the stove has cooled completely prior to cleaning it in order to prevent any severe damage. This will also help to avoid any accidental spills or fires!
Hobs with induction
Induction cookers are an innovative alternative to traditional electric and gas hobs. They utilize magnets instead of a cooktop to heat the pan. They are more efficient than other types of stoves, and will save you energy over time. They are also safer to use since the cooktop's surface remains cool to the touch, and most have safety features such as automatic shut off to prevent accidents.
Induction hobs are typically glass or ceramic with an alternating current that creates magnetic fields to heat. A pan that is compatible with induction must have a flat bottom as well as a steel or iron core. The magnetic field only gets activated when the pan is placed on the cooking zone. The majority of hobs have an bridging zone that can connect two zones to accommodate larger pans.
Induction hobs are renowned for their efficiency, and a lot of people have reported a dip in their coverall energy costs after switching to one. Induction hobs are also believed to be safer, as the surface of the cooktop remains cool to the touch, and they reduce the risk for burns. They only heat the pan and the contents. This makes them safer for children than electric or gas hobs which can get extremely hot.
Most induction cooktops come with a variety of control types. The simplest is the simple touch bar/power bar on top of the hob. Some have an entire display that shows all options and allows you to change power levels and set timers. Induction hobs with more advanced technology have numerous small copper coils that are placed tightly together beneath the cooktop. The magnet underneath each coil detects the time when the pan is positioned. It will activate the coil that is the right one for your pan size and shape.
All of our hobs and ovens are available as freestanding models or are seamlessly integrated into kitchen's worktops and units for a a sleek, seamless look. Our range includes everything from sleek black and stainless steel finishes to trendy copper and ceramic. Make sure you look over our other appliances too such as dishwashers, refrigerator freezers and washing machines, to make sure that your whole kitchen working as it should.