The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Best Hobs
Wiki Article
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The best hobs will be durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs because of their precise flame control and versatility. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to speed up cooking.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat only the copper coils underneath the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact and is safer to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones, each with its own functions and a minute minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are easy to use. However, the heat distribution is uneven. This is a common issue with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive eco credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating and the lowest power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you move your pans within the four zones, and adjust the power levels according to your pots or saucepans. Meanwhile, the 'Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which prevents overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is an induction hob that is priced at a bargain that can be hardwired to a kitchen worktop or a new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly marked with the use of a cross or ring to show where the center of the coil is it, and there's also a simple touch-control panel. It has a large 'Flux Zone' which can hold larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is a great option when cooking with a variety of pans of different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated up and simmered at the same time, and then kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, if you're American) remains the most popular choice in kitchen cooking. They are the best for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity stems from their ability to produce high heat levels quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display allows you to see each burner's status at a glance. This is very useful to ensure safety. It's a lot harder to forget to turn off the burner on, or even switch it on by accident when compared to an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface that makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll have to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, saving on electricity costs. This is especially true for vented stoves, which incorporate the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This can free up space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker look that will blend into any interior style.
Because of their effectiveness and their ease of use, a lot of homeowners opt for gas hobs that best hob uk are freestanding instead of built-in models. They are simpler to install and provide more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a an elegant kitchen design.
Another benefit of opting for freestanding models is the ability to connect it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a more sustainable option. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you consider this option. These models require gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the best option if you want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly and the flat ceramic-ceramic glass surface keeps it cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burning!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient because they consume less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase and you'll have to purchase a set of induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't wish to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs can be a good middle ground. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They are more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs, as they don't require a difficult scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they fall behind induction hobs when is energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy usage this may not be the best option for you.
Finally, solid plate hobs are the best budget alternative, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They are quick to warm up, which makes them an ideal option for those who do not need a powerful cooktop. However, they can take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs also release lots of heat, which means they're not as energy-efficient as the other choices on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you an honest insight into how it works and how it's used, but it can also help you to find a model that's right for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances and give it a minimalist and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred option for cooks due to their rapid heat and simple control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. And with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has sleek design and touch controls. Avoid those with buttons or dials that are protruding. This makes them easy to clean, particularly when you select an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. For security, opt for models with child lock, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs that will prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you might opt for a digital display which lets you control your hob remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.
Consider a dual-fuel hob which has both induction and gas burners for maximum flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set specific cooking times so that food is ready at the time you require it. This reduces the risk of overcooking, and makes your food less flavorful.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may need a model that permits you to join two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of varying dimensions and shapes. This will save space and be useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills as additional cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs that start at PS100 and pricier high-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model it shouldn't cost much also, as there are fantastic options that are made by own brand. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the correct cables and breakers in order to function, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.