A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance that is inserted into the cutouts of a worktop. It can be electric or gas and may have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is easy to clean and has a a modern look.
Smart hobs that can be customized and are compatible with home automation systems are appealing to consumers. They also want to improve hygiene and decrease energy consumption.
Hobs with induction
Modern and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most popular options for modern kitchens. Contrary to electric and gas models, which rely on heating plates to warm cookware, induction hobs use electromagnetic technology to directly heat the pan itself. Underneath the glass-ceramic surface are coils that an alternating current flows through. When a compatible pot is placed in the cooking area the coils create an electric force that interacts with the metal in the pot, generating electrical currents and heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs and are easier to clean.
Induction hobs are also more user-friendly. Read Homepage TFT-enabled display at the top of the appliance can be used to control the oven, with an easy-to-read display of what cookware is in use and the power setting being used. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental button pushing. A lot of induction hobs have a boost function that maximises 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.
Many induction hobs have an unframed design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly incorporated into the countertop. They typically come in black, but some offer different colors that be matched to your kitchen's decor. They also come with simple controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators to show power levels or other functions.
To make the most of an induction cooktop you'll need to invest in induction-compatible cookware. If you're trying to determine if a pan will work on an induction stove, run a magnet across the base of the pan. If the magnet sticks to it, then it's compatible. To prevent over-use of energy, many induction hobs feature a pan detection system that only activates the coils if a suitable pan is available.
Induction hobs are ideal for shared homes or student housing because they don't feature an open flame, and are more secure than gas versions. However, they can produce an eerie ticking or humming sound during operation that can disturb some people.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs use natural gas or the liquefied gas that is used to heat your cookware. They are suitable for a variety of cooking methods. They are quicker to heat up and offer better temperature control than electric alternatives such as ceramic hobs. They can sometimes be a bit messy to clean with burner caps and wok stands needing to be cleaned frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Modern gas hobs use electronic ignition systems that utilize an electric spark or a continuous flame to ignite the burners and start the combustion process. They then use electrical components, such as sensors and switches to control the gas flow through the system and to make sure that the burners function properly. They could also include a number of control knobs for adjusting the intensity of the flame as well as heat output.
Gas hobs are available in various models, with one to six burners. When deciding on the number of burners, think about the size of the pans that you will be using. You'll need to make sure you have enough space for the cookware that you'll be using. If you often stir-fry make sure you choose a pan that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models also come with griddle elements that are built-in, so you can prepare a quick and delicious breakfast or lunch.
A key consideration when selecting gas hobs is the cost to run it. Gas hobs generally have lower initial purchase prices than induction hobs. However, the operating cost can be a bit different dependent on the local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require natural gas supply, and ventilation. This could lead to more expensive installation costs than an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are a great method of combining two appliances into a single unit, saving space in your kitchen while creating a sleeker appearance. They extract smoke and steam through a duct located on the surface of the stove which allows for more efficient operation than traditional hoods.
Portable hobs
Whether you need extra hob space in your kitchen, or want to take your cooking outside the kitchen, a portable hob could be a great choice. They are designed to plug into your kitchen worktop, making them simple to use. You can also carry them with you when you want to cook in a different location. They're also great for those who want to revamp your kitchen or simply want more hob space during busy times.
Induction hobs are 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 an electric current that runs through a magnetic coil which warms the pan you place on top. This means there's no wasted heat' as with an electric or gas hob which helps keep your bills down.
This Belling hob features dual cooking zones, with a double ring design, and can be used with various saucepans and pots. Its intuitive interface and good heat distribution mean it was the most popular choice for testers, who liked the capability to easily alter the temperature of the two zones helpful. The only issue was that it took over 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which can be a hassle for those who are time-pressed.
If you're looking for a compact option this model from Smeg might be worth a look. It's light and thin - less than half the size of the other models on this list. This makes it easy to store when not in use. The brushed silver finish looks elegant and is easier to clean than the more shiny finishes on other hobs.
These hobs may be a convenient smaller alternative to larger ones however they are 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 people might slip over it. Most models also have a child lock, which is a useful feature to consider if you have kids.