Types of Oven Hob
A hob is a flat, elevated surface that is used to heat pots and pans. There are many different kinds of hobs, including electric, gas and induction.
The features to look for include touch, rotary and position controls. These allow you to control the heating zones with the touch of a button, and also prevent them from being easily knocked over especially by children.
Ceramic Hobs
Ceramic hobs are a fantastic option for modern kitchens that are mixing style and function. However the glossy surface is susceptible to scratches and stains caused by cooking and food residues that are burned on. To keep your cooktop looking good and functioning effectively you must follow regular cleaning. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or a scrubbing pad.
The hobs of this style are heated by passing an electric current through coiled metal elements which are hidden beneath the glass surface. These elements produce heat when they are activated using control knobs. Some models have radiant elements, which emits heat through the glass surface. Others employ halogen elements, which are far more powerful and will heat the entire surface area in multiple pulses, making them especially suitable for quick cook times.
A lot of our ceramic hobs come with advanced safety features such as residual heat indicators which alert you when the surface is still hot to the touch to prevent burns. Some also come with child locks to protect children from accidentally altering the settings.
It is essential to select the right cookware for your ceramic stove. It is essential that your pans have flat bottoms because this ensures even heating and prevents hot spots that can cause food to be undercooked or overcooked. Avoid dragging your pans across the surface, as this could scratch the glass that is tempered.
To allow for greater flexibility in cooking, we recommend our ceramic hobs that have a dual ring design or I-Flex's zone that can be used to accommodate two single pots or a large pan (you'll need to have an oven that is at least 30cm in diameter in order for it to register). There are models that have booster heaters for quick heating in specific zones or pans. This is perfect for searing steak and stir-fry. Certain models come with an automatic shut-off feature that shuts off the hob at a predetermined time to prevent it from overheating. This is a useful safety feature to have in place to provide peace of mind. This function is activated by pressing "Power on the control panel when the appliance has reached its maximum temperature.
Gas Hobs
Gas hobs, also referred to as gas stoves or cookers, are kitchen appliances that use natural gas that is flammable or the liquefied petrol gas (LPG) for their fuel. The flame heats cookware and surrounding air, which allows for quick cooking and precise temperature control. The design of the elevated gas hob offers additional security as it stops the body from coming into contact with the flame, thus reducing the risk of burns. This design is elevated and requires special care when cleaning or operating the hob in order to avoid accidentally spilling liquids onto the burners.
The burners of a traditional gas cooker are controlled manually and lit with matches. Modern models come with an automatic igniter that makes sure the gas is lit on its own. The flame can be controlled by the knobs that control it making it easy to adjust the level of heat as needed. Certain gas hobs have multiple flame burners, dependent on the model. This provides greater cooking flexibility.
Gas hobs require a continuous gas supply, which can be problematic if you live in a place with an unreliable or erratic supply. Gas hobs also require frequent maintenance in order to prevent leaks and corrosion. This is why it is crucial to install a gas hob after consulting a Gas Safe registered fitter who can offer expert installation and follow strict safety guidelines.
Gas appliances are still popular in certain regions, despite the fact that electric and induction hobs have gained in popularity. This is due to consumer preferences and environmental concerns, as well local energy prices and availability. It is important to consider the utility and infrastructure costs before choosing a style.
Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a favourite for our clients seeking modern and stylish kitchens. Magnetism is used to heat the pans, rather than an evaporating surface or burning gas beneath. Under the glass ceramic surface are copper coils through which an electric current that is alternating runs through. When an induction-compatible pot is placed on the top of the cooker, the coils sense the magnetic base and induce heat directly into the pot or the pan itself. This is faster than gas stoves that are traditional and more efficient in energy usage. The glass-ceramic surface is cool and cool to feel and easy to clean.
Like other types of modern hobs, induction hobs are also designed to be easier to clean than their gas counterparts. A quick wipe with an damp cloth is all you need to keep your induction hob looking as good as new.
The main limitation with induction cooking is that you must possess the appropriate cookware. Cast iron, stainless steel and certain non-stick pans are compatible but they need 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.
There are a range of induction hobs available that range from low-cost models to top brands that feature TFT displays with an extensive menu of operating options. The hob displays the position of the pan in full-color when it is in a power zone. A control button or slider allows you to alter the power setting or set a clock. There are a variety of clever accessories, including pan sensors that adhere to the sides of cookware and communicate with the oven using bluetooth to control the power.
One of our most popular models is an induction cooker that includes a built-in extractor fan to reduce the smoke, steam and cooking smells. This model is perfect for homes with limited space since it eliminates the requirement for a separate extractor fan. Like other induction hobs it makes use of magnetic fields that operate within the kilohertz spectrum to create the heat that is absorbed by the contents of your pan. In normal operation at an interval of five to ten centimetres, these fields are in line with the reference value for the magnetic flux density set for the relevant frequency range by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection and no health risks are anticipated.
Electric Hobs
The top electric hobs offer sleek design and are designed to match all kitchen styles. They are a great option for those who prefer the convenience of using touchscreen controls instead of dials and come with many options to fit your cooking needs. Most are made from glass that is easy to clean and can also look elegant if you opt for a white or black design. Some come with a bridge function to combine two zones to accommodate larger pans, while others come with an energy boost button to provide extra heat when you're doing something difficult.
Induction hobs are growing in popularity because they offer a modern and clean design that is in keeping with modern kitchen designs. They cook quickly and provide an excellent level of safety. They are more likely to cool faster than gas cookers, and they come with an indicator light that remains in place when the cooking area is hot to the touch. They also work more efficiently since the magnetic field only heats the pan, not the air surrounding it.
However, there are some things to keep in mind when selecting an induction hob which is that most require a power supply configured with the right breakers and cables. We'd recommend having your electric hob installed by a certified electrician. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll have to purchase a set compatible induction pans if you want to make the most of them. They may also be more expensive to run since they generally consume more energy than other types of hobs.
If you're considering a new kitchen or replacing your current hob, why don't you take a an look at our wide range of kitchen appliances? We can help you select the ideal oven hob for your cooking style and preferences. Our experts are available to answer your questions and discuss options with you. We offer an all-encompassing service and can install your new appliance if you want.