A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits inside the cutout of a worktop. It can be gas or electric and may have up to six cooking rings or zones. It has a modern design and is easy to clean.
The market is flooded with smart hobs that are compatible with home automation systems and offer different options for customization. They also want to improve hygiene and cut down on energy consumption.
Hobs with induction
Streamlined and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most sought-after options for modern kitchens. Unlike gas and electric models, which rely on heating plates to warm cookware, induction stoves employ electromagnetic technology to directly heat the pan. Underneath the glass ceramic surface are coils which an alternating current flows through. When a suitable pan is placed in the cooking zone, the coils automatically create an electric field that interacts with the metal within the pan, causing electrical currents and creating heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs and are easier to clean.
Induction hobs are also more user-friendly. A full TFT display on the top of the cooker can be used to control the hob, with a clear indication of what cooking equipment is in use and what power setting is being used. The control panel may also be locked to prevent accidental use of buttons. Many induction hobs feature an increase feature that boosts the power of the cooking area for a brief period of time. This is useful to quickly bring the water in a pot to a boil or heating a pan to cook.
A majority of induction hobs are not frameless, with the glass ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into your countertop. They usually come in black, but some have other colors that match your kitchen decor. These units also come with sleek controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators that show the power level or other functions.
In order to get the most from your induction cooktop, you'll require cookware that is compatible with induction. The best method to determine whether a pan is compatible is to run a magnet along its base; if the magnet is able to stick it's safe for use on an induction stove. To prevent over-use of energy Induction hobs often have pan detection that only activates the coils when a suitable pan is available.
Induction hobs are an excellent choice for shared homes or student housing because they don't feature an open flame, and are safer than gas versions. However, they can produce an eerie ticking or humming sound in operation, which may irritate some people.
Gas hobs
A gas stove uses natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to produce the flame that cookware is heated, making it ideal for a variety of cooking methods. They are more efficient in heating up and offer more precise temperature control than electric alternatives such as ceramic hobs. They can sometimes be dirty to clean with the burner caps and wok stands needing to be cleaned regularly to ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
Modern gas hobs utilize electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or continuous flame to ignite the burners and begin the process of combustion. They then use electrical components such as switches and sensors to control the flow of gas through the system and to make sure that the burners work correctly. The burners could also have several control knobs to adjust the intensity of the flame as well as the heat output.
Gas hobs are available in different models, with a range of one to six burners. Take into account the dimensions of your pots when choosing this number, since you'll want to make sure there are enough burners to accommodate the cookware you plan to use. If you are a frequent stir-fryer then choose a model that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models have griddle elements included, which means you can cook a tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
A key consideration when selecting a gas hob is the cost of running it. Gas hobs typically have lower initial purchase prices than induction hobs, but the operating cost can be a bit different according to your local gas rates and usage patterns. It's also worth bearing in the mind that a gas hob requires a natural gas supply and ventilation, which can increase installation costs over an electric or induction hob.
Vented hobs are a great option to combine two appliances into one unit, which is great for saving space in your kitchen and creating a sleeker appearance. They draw smoke and steam through a duct on the hob's surface and work more efficient than traditional hoods because they can capture steam at cooking level rather than let it rise and escape into your living spaces.
best hob uk
If you're looking for more hob space in your kitchen, or want to cook outside, a portable hob can be a good option. They are designed to plug into your kitchen worktop, making them simple to use. You can also bring them with you when you want to cook elsewhere. They can also be useful when you're remodeling your kitchen or simply need an extra space on your hob for busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular, both in kitchens that are used for professional or home use, because they are quick safe, reliable, and easy to clean. They function by creating a magnetic coil that has an electrical current flowing through it, which heats the pan that you place on top. This means there's no wasted heat' like with gas or electric hobs which helps keep your bills down.
This Belling hob has dual cooking zones and a double rings that can be used for many different pans and pots. Its user-friendly interface and excellent heat distribution mean it was the most popular choice for testers, who found the ability to easily change the temperature of the two zones beneficial. 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.
This Smeg model is a good option if you want a compact option. It's light and thin - less than half the size of some of the other models on this list, making it easy to store away 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 can be a practical, smaller alternative to the larger ones however they are hot and can cause serious burns. We recommend that you handle the hob with care and put it in a secure location away from children's reach, and away from areas where people might trip over it. Many models come with a child lock that can be useful when you have children.