What is a Hob?
The hob is an essential element in every kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass that is shatterproof and heatproof. They also feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They use electric energy however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. They can also be used with nearly all cookware brands however, induction hobs need compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or a ding. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod" which translates to a crag, hill, or a the crag.
In folklore, hobs are faery spirits that do domestic chores. They are generally benevolent, however they can be an issue if they are upset. One such hob was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
Another common use of the term is to refer to a type of cooking device. Hobs are a type of metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of a hob will usually be flat and has a variety of cooking elements, like rings. In certain instances, the hob is replaced with a flat rock that can be used as a quoits goal.
The first documented uses of the word hob date back to the early 16th century. It was likely used at the same time as the female form hobgoblin. This is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent nature hobs can play games with people. They can also be destructive when provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry a cart on its roof, which was a serious inconvenience for the farmer. They can also be difficult to work with due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mainly used in the UK they can also be used in other countries. Gas and electric hobs are available. They can be controlled with one button and can be paired alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are also connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These types of features are attracting customers to purchase these devices. Some models also have advanced safety features like a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and are heated only when in contact with cookware compatible that reduces the chance of burns. Additionally the power is shut off immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in the home where children and guests might be in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also consume less gas than stovetops that are traditional. This can help reduce household energy bills and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a 'Stop & Go' function, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting to make it easier when you need to leave the kitchen. Others feature bridge functions that joins two cooking zones using induction into a single zone controlled by a single controller for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
The power settings of a hob can be adjusted with simple easy-to-use controls that are easy to read and use. Hobs can also be equipped with timers, presets for the most common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs, a Booster function that only utilizes maximum power for the specified time, and a gentle "bottom heat" to reduce simmering time and save energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic-like surface on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks and crannies which can accumulate dirt over time, as with traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs were designed to add elegance and class to the modern kitchen. They read more feature sleek, modern lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Sensors are used in hobs with automatic shut-off features. They scan the surface of the hob to detect signs of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically cut off to avoid injury and fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs since it helps reduce the risk of accidents occurring during cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to know when the cookware isn't in contact it. This helps stop electric shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hobs available, so it's crucial to think about which one is right for your kitchen. Some features include heat control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob you select will also impact your budget - both in the initial cost as well as the ongoing costs.
Gas hobs produce an open flame using natural gas. They heat pans and pots. They are a preferred choice for home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. They are also not affected by power failures and can be used with a large variety of cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Additionally, they may be more susceptible to flare-ups that happen accidentally, so you need to be aware of the open flame and ensure the stove is adequately secured with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements under a ceramic or glass surface to heat cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based products. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are like electric plate hobs, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more energy-efficient however, they take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some offering touchscreen controls, while others have physical knobs to turn.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops using electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners that are exposed, making them easier to clean. They're not as effective at simmering, and they might not be suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you do not take the necessary precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not properly cleaning them can cause fires which could damage your kitchen and cause injury to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be the main cause of kitchen fires.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to be damaged or shatter, posing a fire risk. The majority of hobs have safety features that check operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure the output of heat is constant and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs, the technology is considered safe to use. These EMF are not as powerful than those produced by mobile phones and the radiation they generate is not ionizing.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types of cookware, so it's important to ensure that your pots and pans are induction-ready prior to using them. One way to check this is to place a magnet near the base of the pan. If it sticks, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong type of cookware can damage your hob or cause fire.
Be sure to keep children and other guests away from the hob when it is being used. The surface could be extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves when you touch handles on metal pans because they are also very hot. It is essential to shut off your hob immediately after use, since it could remain hot for some time. Follow the instructions of the fire department and dial 999 as quickly as you can if there's an incident of fire.