Types of Ovens

Hobs are the heart of any kitchen, no matter if you're cooking an kettle or roasting chicken. They are available in a variety of styles and sizes, and there are a variety of hob types to choose from, including electric, gas ceramic, domino and ceramic.

Electric hobs have smooth surfaces and are easy to clean, but they take some time to warm up or cool down. They only work with pans with a flat bottom and could also come with heat indicators.

Ceramic Hobs

Ceramic hobs are an excellent method of cooking. They have a fashionable and sleek design and are simple to operate. They function by using heating elements under the tempered glass surface to distribute heat quickly and evenly across your cookware. Ceramic hobs are available in a variety of styles, from traditional gas burners and electric zones to more modern designs. The majority feature black glazed surfaces which is durable and resistant to chips and scratches.

The smooth, flat surfaces of these hobs are very easy to clean and wash in one sweep - you can even use household cleaners. They do not contain open flames, which means they are safe for families with elderly relatives or children. They typically come with the option of touch or rotary controls for safety, as well as an indicator of residual temperature that warns you if the area remains hot after the pan is removed from the stove.

They are more expensive than a basic electric hob however, they are less expensive than an induction model. They can be a good choice for those that don't have gas installed at their property. Similar to induction models, they can be more efficient than other kinds of hobs but only if your cookware is fitted with a flat base that maximises the surface contact with the elements. Pots and pans that aren't exactly the same size as your element will not be recognised by the heating system so will not function properly.

It is essential to have a qualified electrician install your ceramic hob, since working with electricity can be possible to be dangerous if the installation isn't done properly. Additionally, failing to have your ceramic cooktop professionally installed may invalidate the warranty and cause fire dangers in the future. It's a small price to pay to ensure your security and peace of mind knowing that your new cooktop is safe to use.

Gas Hobs

Gas hobs or gas cooktops are powered by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). They are typically built into kitchen units or countertops. It is comprised of a variety of burners which can be lit manually with matches or lighters and controlled with various knobs that let you manage the heat level while cooking. The primary benefit of gas hobs is that they provide instant heat when compared to electric hobs. They can be used for any style of cooking, from simmering to boiling to sauteing or frying.

The drawbacks of gas hobs are that they require an air supply and gas system to function, which makes them more expensive to install than electric models. Additionally, they might not be as efficient as induction hobs. They also pose a security danger since they are powered by gas that is flammable and require regular maintenance to ensure there are no gas leaks.

Induction hobs are another popular option. They utilize electromagnetic technology to directly heat your pans. This allows them to boil water faster than gas models and provide precise temperature control. Induction hobs work only with induction-compatible pots and can cost more than other types of hobs.

Other options include a ceramic glass hob that has an elegant appearance and is easy to wipe clean. It's available on both induction and electric models, and is the best ovens choice for those looking to add modern, sleek design to their kitchen. However, it's worth noting that this kind of hob can become very hot to the touch and can take longer to cool and heat down than electric or gas models.

Freestanding gas hobs or stoves are a more traditional choice that is perfect for kitchens with large spaces and open-plan designs where they can serve as the focal point. It requires a space and is typically fitted by a professional who will be capable of handling the installation process, which includes handling gas connections that could pose dangers if not handled properly.

Induction Hobs

A popular option for those looking for an elegant and efficient method to cook, induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction technology to warm pans. On the glass surface are coils that, when a compatible pot is placed on them, emit a magnet field, which creates an electric current to flow through the base. This produces heat that rapidly warms up the food in the pan while the cooktop stays cool.

Induction hobs also have a reputation for being more energy efficient than traditional models, whether they are electric or gas. Since they produce heat directly where a pan is placed this helps reduce the amount of residual heat that is wasted. This also helps save on energy costs. Many induction hobs also come with a safety function that stops the stove if no pan is detected or if the pan has been removed, further reducing waste.

Like gas hobs and induction models come with a variety of control options such as slide, dial and touchscreen controls. A slider control is similar to a standard cooker knob and lets you alter the power level with just one movement. A dial control is similar, having a large dial that can be rotated to select the setting you want. Touchscreen hobs are a different option, typically used on higher-end and more advanced induction models. They have a digital display that is easy to read and adjust.

Induction hobs can be fitted with integrated extractors which work with the hood in order to remove smoke and steam from the kitchen and keep out mould and condensation. These can be operated separately from the other appliances and are usually activated by the use of a sensor or button, and they can also be programmed to automatically turn on when a pot is placed in an area for cooking.

The major drawback of induction hobs is that they require a particular type of cookware to operate. It is essential for the bottom of the pan to have a magnetized base in order to create the electromagnetic process. However it is not guaranteed to work on all models. Cast iron and stainless steel with a magnetic base, as well as some non-stick pans are commonly used with induction hobs. However, you should always check the instructions of the manufacturer to make sure your pan is suitable before purchasing an entirely new model.

Domino Hobs

Domino hobs are great for those with a smaller kitchen, but want the flexibility to experiment with various cooking styles. With two zone gas, ceramic and induction domino hobs available and even a griddle option from Siemens you can mix and combine to create a modular kitchen that meets your requirements.

Solid plate hobs are by far the most simple kind of hobs. They utilize sealed metal plates to heat electrical elements, which then create heat for your cookware. They are simple to use, affordable and long-lasting. However, they do take a bit of time to heat up and cool down and tend to be more expensive than other hob types.

A popular alternative to solid plate hobs is the halogen hob, which utilizes a row of halogen bulbs under a glass ceramic surface to generate heat. This type of hob is swift and responsive since the bulbs are bright and then transfer heat directly to the pan. Halogen hobs are not as efficient in energy use and are susceptible to damage by scratching the surface.

Induction hobs, a brand new type of hob that is growing in popularity, utilize electromagnetic technology to heat cooking zones, instead of the surface. They are more affordable and eco-friendly than other types of hobs however they are more expensive than gas and will require specific cookware compatible with induction.

Ceramic hobs with their flat design that blends seamlessly with your worktop, are a stylish oven and hob modern option. They can add a touch of fluidity to the cooking area. The surface is easy to clean and doesn't require any special cleaning products. Certain models have a fashionable frameless appearance and can be customized with dials or touch controls, depending on your preference.

Things to look for when buying a brand new hob include overheat protection, which switches off the heating element when it reaches an unsafe temperature. Also, you should look for residual heat indicators, which warn you if the hob is hot to the contact and could cause burns. Also, a pause feature allows you to temporarily turn off all cooking zones in use. This can be helpful if you need to leave the kitchen for a while.