A Guide to Hobs in the UK

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

Consumers are looking for smart hobs that are compatible 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.

Hobs with induction

Modern and efficient, induction hobs are one of the most sought-after options for modern kitchens. Induction hobs, unlike gas and electric models, which rely on heating plate to warm cookware directly employ electromagnetic technology to heat the pan. Under the glass-ceramic top, coils are utilized to create an alternation current. When a compatible pot is placed on the cooking area, the coils create a magnetic force that interacts with the metal in the pot, creating electrical currents as well as heat. This process makes induction hobs efficient in terms of energy and cleaner than traditional hobs.

Induction hobs are also more user-friendly. A full TFT display on the top of the cooker can be used to control the oven, with an easy-to-read display of what cookware is being used and the power setting being selected. The control panel can be locked to stop accidental button pushing and many induction hobs include a boost function that maximises the potential of the cooking zone for a brief time period to bring the water to the boil or heat a pan for searing.

Many induction hobs come with a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. Some induction hobs are available in different colors to match your kitchen's decor. They also often have sleek, minimalist controls with indicators lights to show power levels and other functions.

To get the most benefit of an induction cooktop you'll need to invest in induction-compatible cookware. If you're interested in knowing whether a pan is compatible on an induction stove, simply run a magnet over its base. If the magnet sticks to it, then it's compatible. To ensure that you don't overuse energy, many induction hobs feature a pan detection system that only activates the coils when a compatible pan is in place.

Induction hobs are an excellent choice for shared homes or student accommodation since they do not feature an open flame. They are also more secure than gas versions. However, they do produce a humming or ticking noise when they are operating, which can be a nuisance to certain people.

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 wide range of cooking techniques. They offer precise temperature control, and are more efficient in heating than other electric alternatives, such as ceramic hobs. They can be a bit dirty to clean, with burner caps and wok stand needing to be cleaned frequently to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.

Modern gas hobs typically use electronic ignition systems, which use an electric spark or a continuous electric flame to light the burners and begin the combustion process. Then, they employ electrical components, such as sensors and switches to regulate the gas flow through the system and make sure that the burners function properly. They could also include various 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 between one and six burners. Take into account the size of your pots when choosing this number, as you'll want to ensure that there are enough burners for the cookware you plan to use. If you are a frequent cook and stir-fry choose one with a dedicated wok burner. Some models also come with griddle elements that are built-in which means you can make tasty and quick breakfast or lunch.

A key consideration when selecting a gas hob is the cost of running it. Gas hobs generally have lower initial purchase costs than induction hobs, however operating costs can vary widely depending on your local gas rates and usage patterns. It's important to keep in the mind that a gas hob requires access to a natural gas supply and ventilation, which can increase installation costs over an electric or induction hob.

Vented hobs are a combination of two appliances in one unit which saves space while giving your kitchen a more modern appearance. They draw smoke and steam through a duct that is located on the surface of the hob, allowing them to work get more info much more efficiently than traditional hoods as they are able to collect steam at cooking level instead of let it rise and spill out into your living spaces.

Portable hobs

Whether you need extra hob space in your kitchen, or you want to take your cooking outdoors, a portable hob can be a good option. These are designed to be placed on your kitchen counter and plug in, which means they're a breeze to use and can be carried with you when you have to cook elsewhere. They also come in handy when you're remodeling your kitchen or simply require some extra hob space to accommodate busy times.

Induction hobs are becoming increasingly popular, both in professional and home kitchens due to their speed, safe, efficient and easy to clean. They operate by creating an electric current which flows through a magnetic coil, which warms the pan that you place on the top. This means there's no 'wasted heat' as with a gas or electric hob that can help reduce your expenses.

This Belling hob has two cooking zones, a double ring design and can be used with many different saucepans and pots. Its intuitive interface, good heat distribution, and the capability to switch the temperature between the two zones made it a favorite among test subjects. The only issue is that it takes more than 12 minutes to bring a litre of water to reach a boil, which could be frustrating for those in a hurry.

This Smeg model is a good choice if you want a compact alternative. It's thin and light - 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 professional and is much easier to clean than hobs that have a more polished finish.

It's important to keep in mind that even though these hobs are an ideal alternative to full-sized ones, they're still hot and can cause burns. This is why we suggest careful handling and judicious placement, with the plug away from children and away from areas where someone could fall over it. The majority of models also come with a child lock which is a helpful feature to consider if you have kids.