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 are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts recommend gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. However, electric hobs can provide superior energy efficiency and are more easy to keep clean. Look for features like power boost and timer that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat the copper coils that are beneath your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than a traditional kettle and use less energy. They're now a common kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen, and we appreciate this elegant, premium model from AEG that comes with four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions and a handy minute reminder. It is smooth and can be cleaned easily and is simple to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, however one small issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven, but this is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with a low power usage of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows the pans to be moved between the four zones and adjust the power levels to suit the size of your saucepans or pots. Meanwhile, the 'Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function and a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops your cooking pan from overheating so you never have to worry about burning food items.
This is an induction stove with a reasonable price that can be hardwired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be controlled separately and are marked with a ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There's also a touch-control panel. It has a wide 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease and is pre-programmed to have power levels set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is great if you regularly cook with different sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought up to boiling point, simmered and then kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop if you're American) is still the best when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups, frying meats and eggs, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately generate high temperatures, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator allows users to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is beneficial for safety reasons. It's much harder to forget to leave a burner on, or to switch it off by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface, which makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, which saves the cost of electricity. This is particularly true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and remove the need for the grill. This can free up space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker look that will be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models because of their efficiency and ease-of-use. These are easier to install, and offer more flexibility when you want to achieve minimalist kitchen designs.
Another benefit of opting for a freestanding model is the possibility of connecting it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a greener alternative. But, you'll need be able to find a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. These models require a gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're looking for a sleek and energy-efficient option, an induction hob is definitely the option to choose. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly, while the flat ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than their gas or electrical counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you'll have to purchase induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs are a great alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs since they don't require hard scrubbing. They also are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They don't have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they may not be the best choice if are worried about your energy consumption.
Finally, solid Best ovens UK plate hobs are the best budget alternative, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They're quick to warm up, which makes them a great option for those who don't require a powerful cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other alternatives.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend looking for one that's been reviewed by customers on the websites of retailers. This will not only provide you with a true insight into the performance of the model and will assist you in finding the right one for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is finished in long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their instant heat and simple control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer sophisticated cooking functions, such as power up settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has a streamlined design with control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid those with dials or buttons that are protruding. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface, and won't scratch or chip. For safety, choose models with child lock with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that will help prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for digital displays that give you control of your hob remotely and also notifications through your smartphone, so you can manage your stove with ease.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with gas and induction burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set cooking times so that your food is ready when you require it. This minimizes the chance of overcooking, and makes your food less tasty.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may need an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into one larger zone to accommodate pans of various dimensions and shapes. This can help save space and is ideal if you often cook using large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to provide additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available in different costs, from as little as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should cost less than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model it won't cost a fortune either as there are some excellent own-brand options. However, bear in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply with the appropriate cables and breakers to work so you'll have to have it installed by a certified electrician.