A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is an appliance that fits into 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 design.
Consumers are interested in smart hobs that are compatible with home automation systems and provide the possibility of customization. They also want to reduce the use of energy and improve hygiene.
Hobs with induction
Induction hobs, which are sleek and efficient, are a popular option for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware directly, use electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Under the glass-ceramic top, coils are used to create an alternating current. When a compatible pot is placed on the cooking surface the coils generate an electric force that interacts with the metal in the pot, generating electrical currents as well as heat. This process makes induction hobs much more efficient in terms of energy and cleaner than traditional hobs .
Induction hobs are also user-friendly. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance can be used to control the oven, with a clear indication of what cookware is in use and the power setting being selected. The control panel can be locked to stop accidental button pushing and many induction hobs come with an increase function that boosts the effectiveness of a cooking zone for a short time period to bring the boiling water to a boil or heat a pan for searing.
Many induction hobs come with an unframed design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They typically come in black, but some have other colour options that can match your kitchen decor. They also come with minimalist controls that are sleek and minimalist, with indicators that show the power level or other functions.
To make the most of an induction hob you'll need to invest in induction-compatible cookware. The best way to check if a pan is induction compatible is to run a magnet along its base. If the magnet stays it's safe for use it on an induction cooker. Many induction hobs feature pan detection to prevent overuse of energy. The coils are only activated when an appropriate pan or pans are available.
Induction hobs are ideal for shared households or student accommodation because they don't feature an open flame and are safer than gas versions. They do make a humming noise or ticking sound when they are in use, which can be annoying to some people.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs make use of natural gas or propane gas that has been liquefied to heat your cookware. They are ideal for a variety of cooking methods. They are quicker to heat up and offer better temperature control than electric alternatives such as ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stands must be removed 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 such as switches and sensors to control the gas flow through the system and to make sure that the burners function correctly. They could also include several control knobs that can be used to alter the flame intensity and the output of heat.
Based on the model you choose, gas hobs have anywhere from one to six burners. Take into account the size of your pans when deciding the number, as you'll want to ensure that there are enough burners for all cookware you intend to use. If you often do stir-frys, opt for a model with a dedicated wok burner. Some models also come with grilling elements to make an easy and delicious breakfast or lunch.
A key consideration when selecting a gas hob is the cost to run it. Gas hobs are generally cheaper to purchase than induction hobs. However operating costs can be different depending on the local gas rates and the usage. It's also worth bearing in mind that a gas hob requires access to a natural gas supply and ventilation, which may increase installation costs over an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs combine two appliances into one, saving you space and giving your kitchen a more sleek look. They extract smoke and steam through a duct on the stove's surface, allowing 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 the kitchen, a portable hob could be a great option. They are designed to be placed on the kitchen worktop and plug in, so they're simple to use and carry with you when you want to cook somewhere else. They are also helpful when you're planning to remodel your kitchen, or if you need more space for your hob in busy times.
Induction hobs are getting more popular in both residential and commercial kitchens due to their speed and safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They operate by creating an electric current which flows through a magnetic coil, which heats up the pan you put on top. There isn't any wasted heat, as it would be with a gas hob or electric hob. This will help you save money.
This Belling hob comes with dual cooking zones and a double rings that can be used for various pans and pots. Its intuitive interface, good heat distribution and the ability to alter the temperature between the two zones made it a popular choice among test subjects. The only issue was that it took over 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which could be frustrating for those who are time-pressed.
This Smeg model is a good option when you're looking for a small alternative. It's thin and light with less than half the size of some other models on the list. This makes it simple to store away when not in use. Its brushed-finish looks more premium and is more easy to clean than hobs with a shiny finish.
These hobs may be a convenient, smaller alternative to the full-sized versions, but they are still hot and could cause serious burns. We recommend that you handle the hob with care and put it in a secure location far from children's reach, and away from areas where people might slip on it. A lot of models come with a child-lock that can be useful if you have children.