A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance that fits into the cutouts of a worktop. It can be either gas or electric, and can come with up to six cooking rings. It is easy to clean and has modern design.
Consumers are looking for smart hobs that are compatible with home automation systems and offer the possibility of customization. They also want to cut down on the amount of energy used and improve hygiene.
Hobs with induction
Modern and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most popular options for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to warm cookware directly make use of electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. On top of the glass ceramic, coils are utilized to create an alternation current. When a compatible pot is placed on the cooking area the coils generate a magnetic force that interacts with metal in the pot, creating electrical currents as well as heat. Induction hobs are more energy-efficient than traditional hobs and easier to clean.
Induction hobs also come with an easier-to-use design. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance could be used to control the hob with a clear indication of what cookware is in use and what power setting is being selected. The control panel can be locked to avoid accidental button pushing and many induction hobs have a boost function that maximises the effectiveness of a cooking zone for a short period of time to quickly bring a pot of boiling water to heat a pan for searing.
A lot of induction hobs are frameless, with the glass ceramic surface completely integrated into your countertop. Some induction hobs are available in different colors to match your kitchen decor. These units also come with minimalist controls that are sleek and minimalist, and have indicators to indicate power levels or other functions.
To make the most of an induction cooker it is necessary to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. The best way to check if a pan is induction compatible is to place a magnet along its base. If the magnet is able to stick it's safe to use on an induction hob. To avoid overusing energy the majority of induction hobs have pan detection systems that only activates the coils if a suitable pan is present.
Induction hobs are a good choice for shared homes or student accommodation since they do not feature an open flame. They are also safer than gas models. However, they can produce a humming or ticking noise in operation, which may irritate certain people.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs make use of natural gas or propane gas that has been liquefied to heat your cookware. They are suitable for a variety of cooking methods. They provide precise temperature control and are faster to heat up than other electric alternatives, such as ceramic hobs. They can be dirty to clean with the burner caps and wok stands that need to be removed regularly to ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
Modern gas hobs are equipped with electronic ignition systems that make use of an electric spark or continuous flame to start the burners and initiate the combustion process. They then make use of electrical components, including switches and sensors to regulate the flow of gas through the system and make sure that the burners are working correctly. They could also include a number of control knobs to adjust the intensity of the flame and the output of heat.
Based on the model you choose, gas hobs can come with anywhere from one to six burners. Consider the dimensions of your pans when choosing the number, as you'll need to make sure that there are enough burners to accommodate the cookware you plan to use. If you frequently stir-fry, choose a model that has a dedicated wok burn. Some models come with griddle elements built in, so you can prepare a quick and delicious breakfast or lunch.
A key consideration when selecting gas hobs is the cost of running it. Gas hobs generally have lower initial purchase costs than induction hobs. However, the operating cost can be a bit different according to your local gas rates and usage patterns. It is important to keep in the mind that a gas hob requires access to natural gas supplies and ventilation, which could increase installation costs over an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs are a combination of two appliances into one which saves space while giving your kitchen a more sleek appearance. They draw smoke and steam through a duct in the surface of the hob and work more efficiently than traditional hoods as they're able to capture steam at the cooking level rather than permitting it to rise and escape into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
If you're looking for more hob space in your kitchen, or want to cook outside an outdoor kitchen, a portable stove can be a great option. They're designed to sit on your kitchen worktop and plug in, which means they're easy to use and take with you when you want to cook in another location. These are also useful when you're planning to remodel your kitchen, or if you need more space for your hob during busy times.
Induction hobs have become increasingly popular, both in kitchens for both home and professional use, because they are quick safe, reliable, and easy to clean. They work by creating a magnetic coil, with an electric current flowing through it, which is heated by the pan you place on the top. This means that there isn't any wasted heat' as with gas or electric hobs which helps reduce your costs.
This Belling hob has dual cooking zones and double rings that can be used to cook various pots and pans. Its intuitive interface and great heat distribution mean it was the most popular choice for test participants, who also appreciated the ability to alter the temperature of the two zones helpful. The only downside is that it takes more than 12 minutes for a litre to boil, which can be a hassle for those needing to rush.
If you're looking to find a more compact model this model from Smeg might be worth taking a glance. It's lightweight 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 appears like a premium finish and is more easy to clean than the shiny finishes on other hobs.
It's important to note that while these hobs are an ideal alternative to full-sized ones but they're still extremely hot and could cause 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 trip over it. Many models also have an option for children's locks that is a great feature to consider if you have kids.