A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits inside the cutouts of a worktop. It can be gas or electric and could have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is easy to clean and has modern appearance.
Smart hobs that can be customized and are compatible with home automation systems are of interest to consumers. They also seek to improve hygiene and decrease energy consumption.
Hobs with induction
Streamlined and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most sought-after options for modern kitchens. In contrast to electric and gas models, which rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction hobs use electromagnetic technology to directly heat the pan itself. On top of the glass ceramic, coils are used to create an alternation current. When a suitable pan is placed on the cooking zone the coils generate an electric field that interacts with the metal inside the pan, causing electrical currents, and producing heat. Induction hobs use less energy than traditional hobs and easier to clean.
Induction hobs also have a more user-friendly design. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance could be used to control the oven, with a clear indication of what cookware is being used and what power setting is being selected. The control panel can also be secured to prevent accidental pressing of buttons. Many induction hobs feature a boost feature that increases the power of the cooking area for a brief period of time. This is useful to quickly bring boiling water to a boil or heating a pan to cook.
A lot of induction hobs feature an unframed design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. Some induction hobs are offered in different colours to complement the decor of your kitchen. They also come with minimalist controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators that show the power level or other functions.
To get the most out of an induction hob it is necessary to invest in induction-compatible cookware. If you're interested in knowing whether a particular pan can work on an induction stove, place 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 prevent overuse of energy. The coils will only be activated when the pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs can be ideal for shared homes or student housing because they don't feature an open flame and are safer than gas versions. However, they can produce a humming or ticking noise when they are operating, which can be a nuisance to some people.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs use natural gas or the liquefied gas that is used to heat your cookware. They are suitable for many cooking techniques. They are precise in temperature control, and are more efficient in heating than some electric alternatives, like ceramic hobs. They can sometimes be messy to clean with burner caps and wok stand needing to be cleaned frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Modern gas hobs typically use electronic ignition systems, which use an electric spark or continuous electric flame to ignite the burners and begin the combustion process. They then use electrical components, including sensors and switches, to control the flow of gas through the system and to ensure that the burners work properly. They could also have a number of control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame and heat output.
Gas hobs come in a variety of models, with a range of one to six burners. Be aware of the size of your pans when choosing this number, since you'll need to make sure that there are enough burners for all cookware you intend to use. If you are a frequent cook and stir-fry choose an appliance with a wok burner. Some models come with griddle elements that are integrated, allowing you to cook a tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
The cost of operating a gas hob should be a major consideration when choosing one. Gas hobs typically have lower initial purchase costs than induction hobs, however operating costs can vary widely dependent on the local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require a natural gas supply, as well as ventilation. This could lead to higher installation costs than an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs are a combination of two appliances into one unit, saving you space and giving your kitchen a more sleek look. They remove steam and smoke through a duct on the stove's surface, allowing for a more efficient operation than traditional hoods.
Portable hobs
If you require more hob space in your kitchen, or want to cook outside the kitchen, a portable hob could be a good option. These are designed to sit on your kitchen worktop and plug into, so they're a breeze to use and carry with you when you need to cook in another location. They're also great if you need to renovate your kitchen, or simply want more hob space in busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both home and professional kitchens as they're quick, safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They operate by creating an electric current that runs through a magnetic coil, which warms the pan you place on the top. There isn't any wasted heat as there would be when using a gas or electric hob. This will help you save money.
This Belling hob comes with two cooking zones, the double ring design can be used with a variety of pans and pots. Its intuitive interface and good heat distribution make it a favourite among test participants, who also found the ability to easily alter the temperature of the two zones beneficial. The only downside was that it took over 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which can be a hassle for those who are time-pressed.
This model from Smeg is a good option when you're looking for a small option. Best ovens UK and light with less than half the size of some of the other models on our list. This makes it easy to store away when not in use. Its brushed-finish looks more professional and is much easier to clean than other hobs with a more shiny finish.
These hobs could be a convenient, smaller alternative to the full-sized versions however they are hot and could cause serious burns. This is why we recommend careful handling and sensible placement of the plug, keeping it away from children and away from areas where people might fall over it. Many models have a child-lock which is a useful feature for parents with children.