A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance for kitchens that is a cutout on the worktop. It can be electric or gas, and come with up to six cooking rings. 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 also offer different options for customization. They also want to reduce the amount of energy used and improve hygiene.
Hobs with induction
Modern and efficient, induction hobs are among the most popular choices for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to warm cookware employ electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Underneath the glass-ceramic surface sit coils that an alternating current runs through. When a pan that is compatible is placed in the cooking zone the coils create magnetic fields that interact with the metal within the pan, generating electrical currents and generating heat. This process makes induction hobs efficient in terms of energy and cleaner than traditional hob types.
Induction hobs also feature an improved user-friendly design. The top of the appliance has a full TFT display that can be used to control it. It displays the cookware that is currently being used, and the power setting you have chosen. The control panel can be locked to stop accidental button pushing and many induction hobs come with an increase function that boosts the potential of the cooking zone for a brief period of time to bring a pot of water to the boil or cook in a pan to searing.
A lot of induction hobs are frameless with the glass ceramic surface that is seamlessly integrated into your countertop. They usually come in black, but some have other colors that complement your kitchen decor. They often also have minimalist, sleek controls with indicator lights to indicate the power level and other functions.
In order to get the most from your induction cooker, you'll require cookware that is compatible with induction. If you're interested in knowing if a pan will work on an induction stove, place a magnet over its base. If the magnet adheres to it, then it is compatible. To avoid overusing energy, many induction hobs feature a pan detection system that only activates the coils if a suitable pan is present.
Induction hobs are a great choice for shared homes or student accommodation since they do not have an open flame. They are also more secure than gas versions. They can produce a humming sound or ticking sound when being used, which may be a nuisance for some.
Gas hobs
A gas stove uses natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to produce the flame that cookware is heated which makes it suitable for a wide range of cooking techniques. They are quicker to heat up and provide more precise temperature control than electric options like ceramic hobs. They can be dirty to clean, with burner caps and wok stand needing to be cleaned frequently to make sure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
Modern gas hobs utilize electronic ignition systems that utilize an electric spark or a continuous flame to ignite the burners and begin the combustion process. They then use electrical components, including switches and sensors to regulate the flow of gas through the system and to ensure that the burners are operating properly. They could also have several control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame and the output of heat.
Gas hobs are available in a variety of models, with one to six burners. Be aware of the dimensions of your pots when choosing this number, as you'll need to make sure that there are enough burners to accommodate all cookware you intend to use. If you frequently stir-fry then choose a model with a wok burn. Some models have griddles integrated, so you can make a quick and tasty breakfast or lunch.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing gas hobs is the cost of running it. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to purchase than induction hobs. However the operating costs can be very different depending on local gas rates and the usage. It's also worth bearing in that a gas-powered hob requires access to natural gas supplies and ventilation, which could increase installation costs over an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs integrate two appliances in one unit making space for them and giving your kitchen a more modern appearance. They extract steam and smoke through a duct on the hob's surface which allows them to operate more efficiently than traditional hoods as they can capture steam at cooking level rather than permitting it to rise and spill out into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
Whether you need extra hob space in your kitchen, or want to cook outside, a portable hob can be a great option. They are designed to connect to the kitchen worktop, making them easy to use. You can best hob 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 have become increasingly popular in both kitchens that are used for professional or home use due to their speed safe, efficient, and easy to clean. They function by creating a magnetic coil, with an electric current flowing through it, which then warms the pan you place on top. This means that there isn't any wasted heat' as with gas or electric hobs that can help keep your bills down.
This Belling hob features two cooking zones, with a double ring design, and can be used with many different pots and saucepans. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution mean it was a favourite among testers, who even liked the capability to easily alter the temperature of the two zones helpful. The only drawback is that it takes over 12 minutes for a litre to come to a boil, which can be a hassle for those needing to rush.
If you're looking for a more compact option, this Smeg model might be worth having a take a look. It's light and thin, 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 like a premium finish and is easier to clean than the more shiny finishes on other hobs.
It's important to remember that while these hobs are an ideal alternative to full-sized ones however, they're still hot and can cause burns. We suggest careful handling and judicious placement, with the plug away from children and away from areas where someone could trip over it. The majority of models also come with a child lock which is a helpful feature to think about for parents with children.