A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance in the kitchen that fits into a cutout in the worktop. It can be electric or gas and can have one to six cooking rings or zones. It is modern in design and is easy to clean.
Smart hobs that allow for customization and are compatible with home automation systems are attractive to consumers. They also want to cut down on the use of energy and improve hygiene.
Hobs with induction
Induction hobs which are stylish and efficient are a popular option for modern kitchens. Contrary to electric and gas models, which rely on heating plates to warm cookware, induction hobs utilize electromagnetic technology to directly heat the pan itself. Under the glass-ceramic top, coils are used to run an alternating current. When a pot that is compatible is placed on the cooking area the coils generate an electric force that interacts with the metal inside the pot, generating electrical currents and heat. Induction hobs are more efficient than traditional hobs, and they are also easier to clean.
Induction hobs also feature an improved user-friendly design. The top of the appliance features an entire TFT display that can be used to control it. It shows what cookware is currently in use, and the power setting you have selected. The control panel can be locked to avoid accidental button pushing and many induction hobs have an increase function that boosts the power of a cooking zone for a short time period to bring the water to the boil or cook in a pan to searing.
Many induction hobs come with frames that are not visible, and the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly incorporated into the countertop. They are usually black, however some come with different colors that match your kitchen decor. They also come with simple controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators to show power levels or other functions.
To get the most out of an induction cooker, you'll need to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. If you're trying to determine whether a particular pan can work on an induction stove, run a magnet across the base of the pan. If the magnet adheres to it, then it is compatible. Many induction hobs have pan detection systems to ensure that they don't use too much energy. The coils will only be activated when the pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs are an excellent choice for shared housing or student apartments since they don't contain an open flame and are safer than gas models. However, they can produce an eerie ticking or humming sound during operation that can disturb 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 wide range of cooking techniques. They are faster to heat up and offer more precise temperature control than electric alternatives such as ceramic hobs. They can sometimes be a bit messy to clean with burner caps and wok stands that need to be removed regularly 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 start the combustion process. They then use electrical components, such as 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 as well as the output of heat.
Based on the model you choose, gas hobs have anywhere between one and six burners. Take into account the dimensions of your pans when choosing this number, since you'll get more info need to make sure that there are enough burners for the cookware you plan to use. If you often stir-fry make sure you choose a pan that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models come with grilling elements which means you can make tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
A major consideration when choosing gas hobs is the cost of running it. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to purchase than induction hobs. However operating costs can be different depending on local gas rates and use. It's important to keep in that a gas-powered hob requires access to natural gas and ventilation, which could increase installation costs over an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are an excellent way to combine two appliances into one unit, saving space in your kitchen and creating a sleeker aesthetic. They extract smoke and steam through a duct on the stove's surface and allow for a more efficient operation than traditional hoods.
Portable hobs
Whether you need extra hob space in your kitchen, or you want to take your cooking outdoors, a portable hob can be a great choice. They're designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop and plug in, which means they're simple to use and carry with you when you need to cook elsewhere. They also come in handy if you're renovating your kitchen or simply need an extra space on your hob for busy times.
Induction hobs are increasingly popular, both in kitchens for both home and professional use due to their speed, safe, efficient and easy to clean. They operate by creating an electric current which flows through a magnetic coil which warms the pan you place on the top. This means there's no 'wasted heat' like with an electric or gas hob which helps reduce your costs.
This Belling hob comes with two cooking zones as well as a double rings, which means it can be used for a range of pots and pans. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution made it an absolute hit with testers, who even liked the capability to easily change the temperature of the two zones useful. The only drawback is that it takes more than 12 minutes to bring a litre of water to come to a boil, which can be frustrating for those who are in a hurry.
This Smeg model is a great choice when you're looking for a small option. It's 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-finish looks more expensive and is easier to clean than hobs that have a more polished finish.
It's important to remember that although these hobs can be an ideal alternative to full-sized ones, they're still hot and can cause burns. This is why we recommend cautious handling and careful placement of the plug, keeping it well out of reach from children and away from areas where someone could fall over it. Most models also have a child lock that is a great feature to think about if you have kids.