Hob: A Simple Definition
Which Ovens Hobs Are Right For You?
Oven hobs are an essential kitchen appliance, but deciding on the right type isn't easy. If you're looking for electric, gas or induction hobs, we'll help you to make the right choice.
Available in a range of styles such as induction and ceramic, domino hobs offer an array of cooking options. Choose between one or two zones of heat and mix the model to suit your requirements. For example ceramic sections can be paired with a separate section that can be used for gas.
Gas
A gas hob is an essential kitchen appliance, providing numerous benefits for cooks who are professional and casual alike. This type of hob is renowned for its speed and versatility. It makes use of propane or natural gas to create a flame which is used to heat pots and pans. Gas hobs are constructed with multiple burners that can be controlled by a knob to control the intensity and temperature of the flame. This level of control makes a gas stove the ideal option for cooking techniques that require delicate control such as boiling and simmering.
In addition, a gas stove's sleek aesthetic contributes to an elegant kitchen design and its flat surface makes it easy to clean. Gas hobs are perfect for counters with smaller spaces because they do not protrude. However, the main drawback of a gas stove is that it requires access to an LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) pipeline and a dedicated fuel source that can add costs.
Gas stoves are built with security in mind. They have flame failure devices that shut off the supply of gas if the flame goes out. This feature helps to prevent the possibility of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. This feature is particularly important in the home of pets or children. Modern hobs are also equipped with automatic shut-off valves to prevent the flow of gas in the event of an unexpected electrical short circuit or surge.
Consult a Gas Safe Registered Fitter before purchasing a gas stove to make sure the installation is done properly and that your stove conforms to all safety standards. Doing the installation or repair of a gas hob yourself could lead to fire hazards, leaks and health risks.
This is why it is essential to think about the long-term costs of a kitchen appliance prior to making your final purchase. Electric hobs are more energy efficient than gas hobs due to the fact that they transfer heat directly to the cookware. In addition, many electricity-based hobs are equipped with additional features, such as automatic shut-off and pan detection that make them safer to use than their counterparts.
Induction
While traditional electric and gas cooktops are heated by conduction (which involves a hot flame that warms the surface of your pan or pot) Induction utilizes electromagnetism to directly heat only your cooking pan. Induction cooktops are able to heat up faster, more accurately and efficiently. This also means less energy wasted because heat is transferred to your cooktop through the magnetic field and not from an unheated resistance coil or open flame.
It can be a challenge to master induction stoves initially. They require a specific type of cookware that's compatible with the heating technology: flat-bottomed ferrromagnetic cookware and pots. The majority of modern kitchenware is compatible, but older pots and pans might not unless you use a induction interface disk. The interface disk is positioned on top of the cookware to create an electrically charged surface. This allows the burners to interact with your cookware. Induction cooktops aren't as hot to your hands as traditional electric or gas cooktops, but they still could cause burns to your hands if you sit too long on the surface.
Another disadvantage is that cookware cannot be placed on the countertop if it is not placed on top of it. This is a security precaution to avoid burning and fires. Induction burners cannot be accidentally turned on while a pan is cooling. This is not possible with an electric or gas stove.
The good news is that induction ranges do not release harmful pollutants into the air when they're off, including nitrous oxides, carbon monoxide and formaldehyde, which can cause respiratory problems. Induction cookers are emission-free when they're used in conjunction with renewable energy sources.
The only drawback is that cooktops with induction technology can produce a buzzing sound. This is most noticeable at higher settings and can interfere with a digital meat thermometer, although you can reduce the noise by using thick flat-bottomed cookware. The hum isn't harmful however it can be irritating for some cooks. It is recommended to test an induction stove prior to making a purchase, which is why many appliance stores offer loaners or showroom kitchens where you can test the cooktops out.
Ceramic
Electric ceramic cookers are the most commonly used type in UK kitchens. They are flush with the worktop, and are covered with glass to give them a sleek modern appearance. They are also easy-to-clean. The flat surface of these units means that there are no crevices where food particles can become trapped in, and a simple wipe is all that is required. They come with a range of safety features including hot indicators that let you know the time when the zones are hot, and locks that prevent children from using them.
They operate by passing electricity through coiled metal parts beneath the tempered glass which electronically heats up to the desired temperature of your cookware or pan. While they aren't as efficient as induction or gas, they offer a convenient and affordable method of cooking. They are susceptible to scratches if pots and pans are moved over the surface, but they come with shatterproof safety glasses.
The flat surface of the ceramic ovens uk hob makes it easy to heat up and cool down quickly, since the heat is transferred through the cookware instead of the entire hob. This makes them easier to use in a busy household. Ceramic hobs are also more expensive, but are worth it for their style and convenience.
It is important to select a kitchen appliance that is suited to your cooking style and lifestyle. If you require high precision, speed and energy efficiency then gas or induction hobs could be better for you. Before deciding on the type of hob that you wish to buy, it is crucial to think about your budget and cookware. After you've done this then you can start looking for the ideal new stove that will complement your oven hob. Our team of experts will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Contact us via email or phone, or go to one of our stores. We offer a large selection of products to help you build your dream kitchen.
Halogen
There's something incredibly satisfying about bringing a halogen oven hob in the kitchen and watching your food rapidly cook under its glowing lid. It's a form of dry-heat which means that food or air is heated to extreme temperatures. Halogen stoves can achieve these temperatures much more quickly than conventional ovens.
They also respond better to temperature variations which makes them suitable for all types of cooking. They are ideal for roasting, frying and baking however they can also be used to steam and steam. Some models even have an infrared grill without the smoke or mess of charcoal.
A halogen oven heats up much quicker than a conventional oven. It also reaches the highest temperature faster. The power is shut off when it reaches this temperature, meaning there is no risk of overheating. The lid is designed to hold the heat, distribute it evenly and brown the food perfectly.
Halogen best ovens uk are usually cheaper than traditional ovens and are available for less than PS40. They can be used for everything from frying to steaming, and some models even have the ability to rotisserie. A lot of them have glass bowls, which makes it easier to keep an eye on the food and can make sure that the food isn't burning.
There are a few disadvantages to consider with the halogen oven, for one thing, the bulbs can blow after a while and need to be replaced. Some models have weak stands that can be easily knocked down by pets or children.
Halogen ovens can also create some unhealthful byproducts when heated. These are referred to as 'process contaminants' and include acrylamide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and can cause cancer in humans. But, if you're cautious to adhere to the guidelines and use the oven with a non-stick surface, you can reduce these risks considerably. Halogen ovens typically come with a warning label on them highlighting these risks and it's important to read this carefully before using the oven.