A Guide to Hobs in the UK
A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits into a cutout on the worktop. It can be gas or electric, and can come with up to six cooking rings. It has a modern design and is easy to clean.
Smart hobs that allow for customization and are compatible with home automation systems are appealing to consumers. They also seek to improve hygiene and decrease energy consumption.
Induction hobs
Streamlined and efficient, induction hobs are among the most popular options for modern kitchens. Contrary to electric and gas models, which rely on heating plates to heat 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 pan is placed on the cooking area the coils generate an electric field that interacts with the metal within the pan, inducing electrical currents and generating heat. Induction hobs are more energy-efficient than traditional hobs and easier to clean.
Induction hobs are also user-friendly. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance can be used to control the hob with an easy-to-read display of what cookware is being used and what power setting is being used. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental button pressing. Many induction hobs include a boost function that maximises the power of a cooking zone for a short period of time to bring an entire pot of boiling water to cook in a pan to searing.
Many induction hobs come with frames that are not visible, and the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly incorporated into the countertop. Induction hobs can be found in different colors to match your kitchen decor. They also often have minimalist, sleek controls that have indicator lights that indicate the level of power and other functions.
To get the most out of an induction hob, you'll need to buy cookware that's compatible with induction. If you're interested in knowing if a pan will work on an induction stove, place a magnet across the base of the pan. If the magnet sticks to it, then it's compatible. To avoid overusing energy, many induction hobs feature a pan detection system that only activates the coils if a suitable pan is present.
Induction hobs are a great choice for shared homes or student housing, as they don't have an open flame, and are safer than gas versions. They can make a humming or ticking sound when they are being used, which may be a nuisance for some.
Gas hobs
A gas stove uses natural gas or liquid petroleum gas to create the flame that cookware is heated which makes it perfect for a variety of cooking methods. They are faster to heat up and offer more precise temperature control than electric options like ceramic hobs. They can be a bit messy to clean with burner caps and wok stands needing to be cleaned regularly to make sure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.
Modern gas hobs utilize electronic ignition systems that use an electric spark or continuous flame to ignite the burners and start the process of combustion. They use electrical components, like switches and sensors to regulate the flow of gas through the system and to ensure that the burners are operating correctly. They could also have a number of control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame and the output of heat.
Based on the model you choose, gas hobs come with anywhere between one and six burners. Be aware of the size of your pans when choosing this number, since you'll want to ensure that there are enough burners to accommodate all cookware you intend to use. If you frequently stir-fry, opt for an appliance with a wok burner. Some models also come with griddle elements built in, so you can prepare tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.
The cost of running a gas hob should be a major consideration when deciding on one. Gas hobs typically have lower initial purchase prices than induction hobs, but operating costs can differ greatly dependent on the local gas rates and usage patterns. Gas hobs require natural gas supply, as well as ventilation. This can lead to more expensive installation costs than an induction or electric hob.
Vented hobs are a fantastic method of combining two appliances into one unit, which is great for saving space in your kitchen and giving a more sleek appearance. They extract steam and smoke through a duct that is located on the hob's surface which allows them to operate much more efficiently than traditional hoods as they can capture steam at the cooking level rather than letting it rise and escape into your living spaces.
Portable hobs
Whether you need extra hob space in your kitchen, or want to take your cooking outside an outdoor kitchen, a portable stove can be a great option. They are designed to connect to the kitchen worktop, making them simple to use. You can also take them with you if you need to cook somewhere else. They are also useful if you're renovating your kitchen or just need an extra space on your hob to accommodate busy times.
Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular in both professional and home kitchens due to their speed safe, energy efficient and easy to clean. They function by creating a magnetic coil, with an electrical current running through it, best hobs which then heats the pan that you place on the top. There is no wasted heat as there is with a gas hob or electric hob. This will help you save money.
This Belling hob features dual cooking zones and a double rings, which means it can be used to cook a range of pots and pans. Its intuitive interface and great heat distribution mean it was a favourite among test participants, who also found the ability to easily change the temperature of the two zones useful. The only issue was that it took more than 12 minutes to boil one liter of water, which can be a hassle for those with a tight schedule.
This Smeg model is a great choice for those looking for a compact alternative. It's thin and light and is less than half the size of some of the other models on our list. This makes it easy to keep in storage when not in use. Its brushed silver finish looks premium and is a little more easy to clean than the more shiny finishes on other hobs.
It's important to note that although these hobs can be a convenient alternative to full-sized ones however, they're still hot and could cause burns. For this reason, we recommend careful handling and sensible placement, with the plug away from children and away from areas where someone could fall over it. Many models come with a child lock, which can be a useful feature if you have children.