A Guide to Hobs in the UK

A hob is an appliance that fits into the cutouts of a worktop. It can be electric or gas and may have up to six cooking rings or zones. Its design is modern and is easy to clean.

Consumers are looking for smart hobs that integrate with home automation systems and offer customization options. They also seek to improve hygiene and reduce energy consumption.

Induction ovens hobs

Streamlined ovens and hobs efficient, induction hobs are one of the most popular choices for modern kitchens. In contrast to electric and gas models, which rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction hobs utilize electromagnetic technology to directly heat the pan itself. The glass-ceramic top is where coils are utilized to create an alternating current. When a suitable pot is placed in the cooking surface, the coils create an electric force that interacts with the metal in the pot, creating electric currents and heat. This process makes induction hobs more efficient in terms of energy and cleaner than traditional hob types.

Induction hobs are also more user-friendly. A full TFT display on the top of the appliance can be used to control the hob, with an obvious indication of which cookware is being used and what power setting is being selected. The control panel can also be locked to prevent accidental use of buttons. Many induction hobs have a boost feature that increases the power of the cooking area for a brief period of time. This feature is helpful for quickly bringing the water in a pot to a boil, or heating the pan to sear.

A lot of induction hobs feature a frameless design, with the glass-ceramic surface seamlessly integrated into the countertop. They are usually black, but some offer different colors that be matched to your kitchen's decor. They are also typically equipped with sleek, minimalist controls with indicators lights to show power levels and other functions.

To maximize the performance of your induction hob you will require induction-compatible cookware. The Best Hobs Uk way to determine whether a pot is compatible is to run an iron rod across its base; if the magnet stays it's safe to use on an induction stove. To ensure that you don't overuse energy, many induction hobs feature a pan detection system that only activates the coils when a suitable pan is available.

Induction hobs can be a great choice for shared housing or student apartments because they don't feature an open flame, and are safer than gas versions. They do make a humming or ticking sound when in use, which can be a nuisance for some.

Gas hobs

A gas hob makes use of natural gas or the liquefied petroleum gas to create the flame that heats your cookware, making it ideal for a wide range of cooking methods. They are more efficient in heating up and provide more precise temperature control than electric alternatives such as ceramic hobs. They can be messy to clean with burner caps and wok stands that need to be removed regularly to ensure that everything is cleaned thoroughly.

Modern gas hobs are equipped with electronic ignition systems that utilize an electric spark or a continuous flame to ignite the burners and start the process of combustion. They then use electrical components such as switches and sensors to control the gas flow through the system and to make sure that the burners function correctly. The burners can also include several control knobs to adjust the intensity of the flame as well as the heat output.

Gas hobs come in different models, with a range of one to six burners. Take into account the dimensions of your pans when choosing the number, as you'll want to make sure there are enough burners for the cookware you plan to use. If you frequently stir-fry, opt for a model with a dedicated wok burner. Some models come with griddle elements integrated, so you can make a delicious and quick breakfast or lunch.

A key consideration when selecting a gas oven hob is the cost of running it. Gas hobs are generally less expensive to purchase than induction hobs. However, operating costs may be different based on the local gas rates and use. It is important to keep in mind that a gas hob requires a natural gas supply and ventilation, which could increase installation costs over an induction or electric hob.

Vented hobs are a great way to combine two appliances into a single unit, reducing space in your kitchen while giving a more sleek appearance. They draw steam and smoke through a duct on the stove's surface, allowing for a more efficient operation than traditional hoods.

Portable hobs

A portable hob is an excellent option if you're looking to increase the space in your kitchen or would like to cook outdoors. These are designed to be placed on your kitchen counter and plug into, so they're simple to use and take with you when you need to cook elsewhere. These are also useful if you need to renovate your kitchen, or if you just want to have more space on your hob during busy times.

Induction hobs have become increasingly popular in both professional and home kitchens, because they are quick, safe, efficient and easy to clean. They function by creating an electric current which flows through a magnetic coil, which then heats the pan that you Best place to buy oven and hob on the top. There is no wasted heat, as it is with a gas or electric hob. This can help you save money.

This Belling hob has dual cooking zones, with a double ring design, and can be used with various pots and saucepans. Its intuitive interface and good heat distribution make it the most popular choice for testers, who even found the ability to easily alter the temperature of the two zones useful. The only drawback is that it takes over 12 minutes to bring a litre of water to come to a boil, which can be a hassle for those who are in a hurry.

This model from Smeg is a good choice when you're looking for a small alternative. It's thin and light and is less than half the size as some other models on the list. This makes it easy to put away when not in use. The brushed finish appears more professional and is much easier to clean than hobs with a shiny finish.

It's important to remember that although these hobs can be an excellent alternative to larger ones but they're still extremely hot and can cause burns. We recommend cautious handling and careful placement of the plug, keeping it far away from children and away from areas where people might slip over it. A lot of models come with a child-lock that can be a useful feature when you have children.