Types of Oven Hob
A hob is an elevated flat surface that heats pots and pans. There are a variety of types of hobs, such as electric, gas, and induction.
Features to look out for include rotary, touch and control of the position. These controls let you control heating zones by pressing one button. They also protect them from being smashed down easily, particularly if they are used by children.
Ceramic Hobs
Ceramic hobs are stylish and functionality in a modern kitchen. However, the glossy surface is susceptible to scratches and stains caused by food residues and cooking burnt-on stains. Keeping your hob clean with regular cleaning and avoidance of using harsh cleaners or scrubbing pads is essential to keep it looking good and working effectively.
These types of hobs are heated by passing an electrical current through coiled components hidden beneath the glass surface which generate heat when activated by control knobs. Some models have radiant elements that emits heat across the glass surface. Others employ halogen elements, which are more powerful and can heat the entire surface in a series of pulses, which makes them ideal for cooking in short time.
Some of our ceramic hobs come with advanced safety features, for example, a residual heat indicator, which warns you when the surface remains hot to the touch. This helps prevent burns. Some ceramic hobs are equipped with child locks that prevent children from accidentally changing the settings.
For optimal performance, it is important to use the correct cookware for your ceramic cooktop. This will ensure that your pans are flat-bottomed. This ensures even heat distribution and helps to avoid hot spots that could result in food being overcooked or undercooked. Avoid dragging pans across the surface, as this can scratch the glass tempered.
To cook with greater flexibility, we recommend our ceramic hobs that feature a dual ring design or the 'I-Flex' zone which can accommodate either two single pots or one large pan (you'll require at least a 30cm-wide pan for it to register). We also have models with booster heaters for quick heating in specific areas or pans. This is ideal for stir-fry or searing steak. We also have some models that have an auto shut-off feature that turns off the hob after a specified time to avoid overheating. This is a great safety feature that will give you peace of assurance. This function is usually activated by pressing the 'Power' button on the control panel when you have an appliance set up to the maximum temperature and no activity is detected for a set period of time.
Gas Hobs
Gas hobs, also referred to as gas stoves or cookers are kitchen appliances that use natural gas that is flammable or LPG, which is liquefied. (LPG) to power their fuel. The flame heats cookware as well as the air surrounding it which allows for fast cooking and precise temperature control. The design of the elevated gas hob provides added safety because it prevents the body from coming in contact with the flame, reducing the possibility of burning. This elevated design requires extra attention when cleaning or using the hob in order to avoid spilling liquids onto the burners.
The burners of a traditional gas cooker are controlled by hand and lit using a a match. More recent models feature an automatic igniter that ensures the gas is lit in a timely manner. The flame can be controlled by the knobs that control it, making it simple to adjust the level of heat as needed. Depending on the model, some gas hobs also have multi-flame burners to give you more cooking flexibility.
One of the biggest downsides for a gas hob is that it requires a constant supply of gas, which can be a hassle for those who live in an area with intermittent or unstable supply. Additionally, gas hobs require regular maintenance to prevent dangerous corrosion and leaks. This is why it is crucial to install a gas hob only after consulting a Gas Safe registered fitter who will provide an expert installation and adhere to strict safety protocols.
While induction and electric hobs are becoming more popular, there is still a significant market for gas appliances in certain regions. This is due to consumer preferences and environmental concerns, in addition to local prices for energy and availability. It is important to consider your kitchen's cost of utility and infrastructure before choosing a style.
Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a favorite for our customers who want a sleek and clean-looking kitchen. Magnetism is used to heat the pans, rather than a heated surface or burning gas beneath. Copper coils are positioned beneath the glass ceramic surface. An electric current that is alternating is passed through them. When an induction-compatible pot is placed on top of the cooker, the coils detect the magnetic base and release heat directly into the pan or the pan itself. This is much faster than traditional gas hobs and more energy efficient as well. The glass-ceramic surface remains cool to the touch and is easy to clean.
Induction hobs are designed to be less difficult than gas counterparts to clean. A simple wipe with an damp cloth is all you need to keep your induction hob looking good as new.
Induction cooking requires that you make use of the correct cookware. Stainless steel, cast iron and some non-stick pans are all compatible, but they must have an induction-compatible magnetic base. If you're not sure whether your existing cookware is induction-compatible, a quick test is to place a magnet on the bottom of the pan. If it sticks firmly, then your pan is induction-compatible.
A range of induction hobs are available, from budget models to premium brands with a full TFT display and comprehensive operating menu. The hob will display the pan's position in full-color when it is in a power zone. A control button or slider lets you to alter the power setting or set a clock. There are a variety of clever accessories, such as pan sensors that attach to the sides of cookware, allowing them to communicate with the oven using bluetooth to control the power.
One of our most popular models is an induction cooker which comes with an integrated extractor fan to cut down on smoke, steam and cooking smells. This model is ideal for homes with a limited space since it eliminates the requirement for a separate extractor fan. It utilizes magnetic fields that are within the kilohertz frequency band to generate heat that is then absorbed by the pan and its contents. In normal operation, the magnetic fields are within the range of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection's standard value for the magnetic density for the relevant frequency. No health effects should be anticipated.
Electric Hobs
The top electric hobs have a a sleek finish and are designed to fit all kitchen designs. They are ideal for those who prefer touch controls over dials, and are available with a variety of options that can meet your cooking needs. The majority of these are constructed from glass, which is clean and elegant in a black or a white design. Certain models come with the option of combining two zones to make room for larger pans and others include a power boost button that provides extra heat for difficult tasks.
Induction hobs have become increasingly popular due to their contemporary and clean look that blends well with the modern designs of kitchens. They also cook quickly and provide a high degree of security. For instance, they tend to cool faster than gas cookers. They also have a 'hot' indicator light that is on to warn you when the cooking zone is hot to the surface. They also tend to be more efficient since the magnetic field generates heat within the pan itself and doesn't heat the air around it.
There are a few things to take into consideration when selecting an electric hob. Most require an electrical supply that is paired with the correct cables and breakers. We suggest installing it by a qualified electrical contractor. Induction hobs are expensive, and you will need to purchase a set of compatible induction pans if you want to make the most of them. They can be more expensive because they use more energy.
If you're thinking about a new kitchen or replacing the current hob then why not take an look at our wide range of appliances? We can help you choose the best oven hob to suit your cooking style and preferences. Our experts are ready to answer your questions and discuss the options with you. We offer a nationwide service and can install your new appliance if you'd like.