Hob: A Simple Definition
Which Ovens Hobs Are Right For You?
Hobs in the oven are an essential kitchen appliance, but deciding on the right type isn't easy. If you're in search of electric, gas or induction hobs we'll help you make the best hob choice.
Available in a range of styles such as induction and ceramic domino hobs provide an array of cooking options. Select between one or two zones of heat and mix the models to suit your requirements. For example the ceramic section can be paired with a separate one for gas.
Gas
Gas hobs are a crucial kitchen appliance that is used by professionals as well as cooks at home. This kind of stove is known for its ability to speed up and its versatility. It makes use of natural gas or propane to create a flame which is used to heat pots and pans. Gas hobs are constructed with multiple burners that can be controlled using a knob to regulate the intensity and temperature of the flame. Gas hobs are a great choice for cooking that requires delicate techniques like simmering or boiling.
A gas hob can be a sleek addition to any kitchen. Its flat surface makes it simple to clean. In contrast to an oven hob gas hobs do not protrude from the countertop, which makes it ideal for countertops with smaller spaces. However, a major disadvantage of a gas hob is that it requires access to an LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) pipeline as well as a specific supply of fuel, which may increase installation costs.
Gas stoves are designed with safety in mind. They come with flame failure devices that cut off the supply of gas if the flame goes out. This feature guards against the possibility of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning, and is particularly important in the home of pets or children. Modern hobs also have automatic shut-offs that stop the flow of gas in case there is an unexpected electrical short circuit or surge.
If you are considering purchasing gas hobs, make sure to consult with a Gas Safe registered fitter to ensure your installation process is carried out correctly and that your stove adheres to all safety protocols. If you try to install or repair the gas hob by your own, it may cause leaks, fire hazards and health hazards.
It is crucial to think about long-term costs prior to making a purchase. For example an electric hob can be more energy efficient than a gas-powered hob as it transfers heat directly to your cookware. Additionally, many electric-powered hobs are equipped with additional features, such as automatic shut-off or pan detection that make them more secure to use over their counterparts.
Induction
While traditional electric and gas cooktops heat through conduction (which involves a hot burner that is used to heat the surface of your pot or pan) Induction utilizes electromagnetism in order to heat only your cooking pan. This lets induction cooktops warm up faster more precisely and efficiently. This also means less energy wasted, as heat is only transferred via the magnetic field that surrounds your cooktop and not by a heated resistance coil.
It can be a challenge to master induction stoves initially. They require a specific kind of cookware that is compatible with the heating technology: flat-bottomed ferrromagnetic pots and pans. The majority of modern kitchenware is compatible, but older pots and pans might not work unless you utilize an interface disk for induction. The interface disk is placed on top of your current cookware and creates a magnetic surface that allows the burner to interact with it. Induction cookers won't harm your hands like the traditional electric or gas cooktop however, they do get hot and can burn when you keep your hands on the surface for too long.
Another disadvantage is that cookware cannot be placed on the kitchen surface if it is not over it. This is a safety precaution to avoid burns and fires. It's also not possible to accidentally turn an induction burner on when the pan is cooling, just as you would use a gas stove or electric oven.
The good aspect is that induction cookers do not release harmful pollutants into the air when they're turned off, like carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides and formaldehyde, which could cause respiratory problems. And when paired with a renewable energy source induction cookers can be completely emissions-free.
Induction cooktops may emit an emitted sound. The noise is more apparent at higher temperatures and may interfere with digital meat thermometers. However, you can reduce it by using heavy pans with flat bottoms. The hum isn't a problem but it can be irritating for some cooks. Many appliance stores have showroom or loaner kitchens that you can use to test an induction cooktop prior to buying.
Ceramic
Electric ceramic cookers are the most common type of cooker found in UK kitchens. They are usually flush with the worktop, and then effixed in glass for a sleek and modern look, they are also easy to keep clean. The flat surface of these units means that there are no crevices where food particles can be 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 when the zones are still hot and locks that stop children from using them.
The cookware or pan is heated electronically through the passage of electricity through the coiled elements underneath the tempered glass. Although they're not as efficient as gas or induction however they provide a convenient and cost-effective method of cooking. They can be prone to scratching if pots and pans are dragged across the surface but they do come with shatterproof safety glass.
The flat surface of a ceramic hob also makes it very easy to heat up and cool down since the heat is radiated through the cookware, not the entire hob. This makes them more practical to use in a bustling home. Ceramic hobs are also expensive, but worth it because of their style and convenience.
It is important to select a kitchen appliance that is suited to your cooking style and lifestyle. Gas or induction hobs might be more suitable for those who require high precision, speed and energy efficiency. Before deciding on the type of hob you'd like to buy, it is crucial to think about your budget and cookware. After this is done then you can start looking for the perfect new hob that is compatible with your oven. Our experts is ready to answer any questions you may have. You can contact us by phone or email or visit one of our stores. We have a wide selection of products to help you design your dream kitchen.
Halogen
It's incredibly satisfying to bring a halogen hob into your kitchen and watch food cook quickly under its glowing lid. It's a form of dry-heat which means that the air or food is heated to extreme temperatures. A halogen stove can attain these temperatures faster than conventional ovens.
They're also more responsive to temperature adjustments, making them ideal for all types of cooking. For instance they excel in roasting and frying but they can also be used to bake and steam. Some models are even capable of grilling infrared, without the smoke and mess of charcoal.
In addition to being fast to start heating the oven, a halogen one is also much faster than a conventional oven in reaching its maximum temperature. The power will cease to function when it's reached - therefore there's no risk of overheating. The lid is also designed to hold heat efficiently to distribute it evenly, and frying food to perfection.
Halogen ovens are usually cheaper than a traditional oven and are available for less than PS40. They can be used to cook steam, cook and even Rotisserie. Many models have glass dishes, which allows you to observe food more effectively and also prevents it from burning.
There are some drawbacks to be aware of when using an oven that is halogen for instance the bulbs may blow out after a while and require to be replaced. Some models come with flimsy stands that are easily knocked down by pets or children.
Another issue that could be a concern is that halogen ovens can generate some unhealthy byproducts during the heating process. These are referred to as 'process contaminants which include acrylamide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs), and they can cause cancer in humans. However, if you're mindful to follow the guidelines and use the oven with a non-stick cooking pan, you can reduce the risks significantly. These risks are typically highlighted on the warning label of the halogen ovens. It is important to read it carefully before using this appliance.