A Guide to Hobs in the UK

A hob is an appliance for kitchens that fits into an opening in the worktop. It can be electric or gas and could have up to six cooking rings or zones. It is easy to clean and has a modern appearance.

Consumers are looking for smart hobs that can be integrated with home automation systems and offer different options for customization. They also want to cut down on the amount of energy used and improve hygiene.

Induction hobs

Modern and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most sought-after options for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, as opposed to gas and electric models, which rely on heating plates to heat cookware directly make use of electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Under the glass-ceramic top, coils are used to create an alternating current. When a suitable pan is placed in the cooking area the coils create an electric field that interacts with the metal inside the pan, inducing electrical currents, and producing heat. This makes induction hobs more efficient in energy use and easier to clean 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 what power setting is being used. The control panel can be locked to prevent accidental button pushing. A lot of induction hobs come with an increase function that boosts the power of a cooking zone for a short period of time to bring a pot of water to the boil or heat a pan for searing.

Many induction hobs are frameless with the glass ceramic surface completely integrated into your countertop. Some induction hobs are offered in different colors to match the decor of your kitchen. They are also typically equipped with minimalist, sleek controls that have indicators lights to show power levels and other functions.

In order to maximize the benefits of your induction hob you will require induction-compatible cookware. The best way to determine whether a pan is compatible is to run a magnet along its base. If the magnet stays, it's safe to use on an induction stove. A majority of induction hobs come with pan detection to prevent overuse of energy. The coils will only be activated when the pan or pans are available.

Induction hobs are a good option for shared homes or student accommodation since they don't have an open flame. They are also safer than gas models. They do produce a humming sound or ticking sound when in use, which can be irritating to some.

Gas hobs

Gas hobs make use of natural gas or the liquefied gas that is used to heat your cookware. They are perfect for many cooking techniques. They are faster to heat up and offer more precise temperature control than electric options like ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stands need to be cleaned regularly to ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.

Modern gas hobs are equipped with electronic ignition systems that utilize an electric spark or continuous flame to start the burners and initiate the process of combustion. Then, they use electrical components like switches and sensors to control the gas flow through the system and make sure that the burners work correctly. They could also have several control knobs that can be used to alter the intensity of the flame and the output of heat.

Gas hobs come in different models, with a range of 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 to accommodate the cookware you plan to use. If you often stir-fry make sure you choose a pan that comes with a separate wok burn. Some models come with griddle elements that are integrated, allowing you to make a delicious and quick breakfast or lunch.

A key consideration when selecting gas hobs is the cost of running it. Gas hobs are generally cheaper to purchase than induction hobs. However operating costs can be different based on the local gas rates and usage. Gas hobs require a natural gas supply and ventilation. This could lead to more expensive installation costs than an electric or induction hob.

Vented hobs are a great option to combine two appliances into a single unit, reducing space in your kitchen while creating a sleeker aesthetic. They pull smoke and steam through a duct on the hob's surface which allows them to operate much more efficient than traditional hoods because they're able to capture steam at cooking level instead of letting it rise and spill out into your living spaces.

Portable hobs

A portable hob is an excellent option if you're looking to increase the space in your kitchen or wish to cook outdoors. They are designed to be placed on your kitchen counter and plug in, which means they're easy to use and carry with you when you want to cook in another location. They are also helpful if you need to renovate your kitchen, or if you simply want more hob space in busy times.

Induction hobs are increasingly popular in both professional and home kitchens because they are fast safe, efficient, and easy to clean. They work by creating an electric current which flows through a magnetic coil which then heats the pan you place on top. There isn't any wasted heat, as it is when using a gas or electric hob. This can help you save money.

This Belling hob has dual cooking zones and ovensandhobs.uk a double rings, which means it can be used for a range of pans and pots. Its intuitive interface, good heat distribution, and the capability to change the temperature between the two zones made it a favored among test subjects. The only issue was that it took more than 12 minutes to boil a litre of water, which can be a hassle for those who are time-pressed.

This model from Smeg is a great choice when you're looking for a small option. It's light and thin - less than half the size of the other models on this list. This makes it easy to store when not in use. Its brushed finish looks more premium and is easier to clean than other hobs with a shiny finish.

These hobs can be a great, smaller alternative to the full-sized versions however, they are hot and could cause serious burns. We suggest careful handling and judicious placement, with the plug away from children and away from areas where someone could fall over it. A lot of models come with a child-lock that can be useful if you have children.