An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Oven Hob
Types of Oven Hob
A hob is an elevated flat surface that is used to heat pans and pots. There are many different kinds of hobs, including gas, electric and induction.
Look for features such as rotary or touch controls. These controls let you control heating zones by pressing one button. They also protect them from being knocked down easily, especially when they are used by children.
Ceramic Hobs
Ceramic hobs are a fantastic option for modern kitchens, combining style and functionality. However, the glossy surface is susceptible to stains and scratches caused by food and burnt-on cooking residues. To keep ovens hobs looking well-maintained and operating efficiently you must follow an ongoing cleaning routine. Avoid using abrasive cleansers or a scrubbing pad.
The hobs of this type are heated by transferring an electrical current through coiled metal elements which are hidden beneath the glass surface. They generate heat when they are activated by control knobs. Some models have a radiant element that emits heat through the surface of the glass. Other models use halogen elements which are far more powerful and heat the entire surface in a series of pulses, making them particularly ideal for cooking in short time.
A lot of our ceramic hobs come with advanced safety features, such as residual heat indicators that warn you when the surface remains hot to the touch to prevent burns. Some ceramic hobs have child locks that prevent children from accidentally changing the settings.
It is essential to select the right cookware for your ceramic stove. It is crucial that your pans have flat bottoms, as this promotes even heating and also helps to avoid hot spots that could cause food to be undercooked or overcooked. Avoid dragging pans across the surface, as this could scratch the glass that is tempered.
We recommend ceramic hobs with dual-ring designs, or the 'I Flex zone. It can be used to accommodate two single pots or one large pan. You'll require a pan that has minimum dimensions of 30cm to make it register. We also have models with an auxiliary heater that allows for rapid heating in specific pans or zones. This is perfect for searing steak and stir-fry. We also have some models with an auto shut-off feature that switches off the hob after a predetermined time to prevent it from overheating. This is a fantastic safety feature that will give you peace of assurance. This feature is typically activated by pressing the "Power' button on the control panel when you have an appliance set up to the maximum temperature and no activity is detected for a predetermined period of time.
Gas Hobs
Gas hobs, also known as gas stoves, or gas cookers are kitchen appliances that make use of natural gas that is flammable, or the liquefied petrol gas (LPG) to power their fuel. The flame is used to heat both the cookware and the air surrounding it. This allows for rapid cooking and precise temperature control. The elevated design of a gas hob adds security by preventing the body from coming into contact with the flame, reducing the risk of burns. However, this design requires special attention when cleaning and operating the hob to avoid accidentally spilling liquids on the burners.
The burners of a traditional gas cooker are controlled by hand and lit using a a match. Modern models come with an automatic igniter that ensures the gas is lit automatically. The flame can be controlled by the control knobs. This makes it easy to adjust the heat level. Depending on the model, a few gas hobs also come with multi-flame burners to give you more cooking flexibility.
One of the biggest drawbacks to a gas hob is that it requires a continuous supply of gas, which can be a problem for those who reside in an area that has an unstable or insecure supply. In addition, gas hobs require regular maintenance to prevent the risk of leaks and corrosion. Gas hobs should be installed by Gas Safe Registered Fitters who can guarantee an efficient installation and adhere to strict safety protocols.
While induction and electric hobs are becoming more popular however, there is a substantial market for gas appliances in some regions. This is largely due to the preferences of consumers and concerns about the environment and local energy prices and availability. It is important to consider the cost of utility and infrastructure before choosing a type.
Hobs induction
Induction hobs are the most popular choice for our customers looking for a sleek and clean-looking kitchen. Magnetism is used to heat the pans instead of the surface being heated or burning gas underneath. Below the glass ceramic's surface are copper coils which an electric current that is alternating runs through. When an induction-compatible pan is placed on top of the cooker, the coils are able to detect the magnetic base and induce heat directly into the pan or the pan itself. This is much faster than traditional gas hobs, and is more energy efficient, too. The glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and is easy to clean.
Induction hobs are designed to be easier than gas hobs to wash. A simple wipe using a damp cloth is all you require to keep your induction hob looking good as new.
The primary drawback with cooking induction is that you must have suitable cookware for it. Cast iron, stainless steel and some non-stick cookware 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.
A range of induction hobs are available, from budget models to top brands that come with a full TFT display and a comprehensive operating menu. The hob will show the pan's position on the full-colour display when it is in an area of power. A control button or slider allows you to change the power setting or set a timer. There are many clever accessories, such as pan sensors that attach to the sides of cookware, allowing them to communicate with the hob via bluetooth to control the power.
One of our most adored models is an induction cooker that includes a built-in extractor fan that helps to reduce the smoke, steam and cooking smells. This model is perfect for homes with limited space as it does not require an extractor fan. Like other induction hobs, it utilizes magnetic fields with frequencies in the kilohertz range to generate the heat that affects your pan and its contents. In normal operation at a distance of five to ten centimeters, these fields conform with the reference value for magnetic flux density established for the relevant frequency range by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection and no health risks are expected.
Electric Hobs
The best electric hobs are elegant and designed to be compatible with most kitchen styles. They are a great option for those who like the ease of using touch controls rather than dials. They also come with a variety of options to suit your cooking requirements. Most are made from glass that is easy to clean and can look elegant if you opt for a white or black design. Some come with the ability to bridge two zones to accommodate larger pans, while others have a power boost button for extra heat when you're doing something difficult.
Induction hobs are becoming more popular because they provide a contemporary and clean look that is in line with the designs of today's kitchens. They cook quickly and provide the highest level of safety. They tend to cool quicker than gas cookers, and they come with an indicator light that stays in place when the cooking area gets hot to the touch. They are also more efficient because the magnetic field only heats the pan and not the air surrounding it.
There are some things to take into consideration when selecting an electric hob. The majority of them require an electrical supply that is configured with the right cables and breakers. We recommend installing it by a qualified electrical contractor. They can also be quite expensive and you'll need a set of compatible induction pans to get the most out of them. They are more expensive because they use more energy.
If you're thinking about the possibility of a new kitchen or replacing the current hob, why don't you take a to look through our vast range of appliances? We can help you choose the right oven hob for your cooking style and preferences. Our experts are always available to discuss your options and answer any questions you might have. We offer an all-encompassing service and can install your new appliance if you'd like.