Why We Why We Best Hobs (And You Should Also!)
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The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The best hobs are robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs for their precise flame control and versatility. But, electric models offer superior energy efficiency and are easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features such as power boosts and a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs offer a modern efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as do gas hobs they utilize magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop remains cool to the touch, making it more secure to use and easier for cleaning. They are able to boil water faster than kettles and require 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 the minute timer. It has a smooth surface that can be cleaned easily and is simple to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, however one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven, but this is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive environmental credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating with the lowest power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match the pans or pots you use as well as the 'PowerBoost feature boosts the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shutoff function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burnt food items.
This is a affordable induction cooker that is easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified by the ring, cross or arrow to indicate the coil's centre. It also has an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has an enormous 'Flux Zone' which can hold larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is an excellent option if you cook with a variety pans of different shapes and sizes that need to be heated, simmered at the same while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They are the best choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately generate high temperatures which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to check the status of each burner at glance. This is very useful to ensure safety. It's much harder to forget to leave a burner on, or to switch it off accidentally as it is with an electric hob.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's no material that can stop spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to keep on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs are more energy efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, saving on electricity costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for an Hood. This will save the space in your kitchen and also create an elegant and modern design that will be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Due to their effectiveness and ease of use, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding rather than built-in versions. They are simpler to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option if you want to go green. However, you'll need be able to find a suitable LPG boiler and stove before this option becomes a possibility for you. These models require gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're seeking an elegant and energy-efficient choice, an induction hob is definitely the way to go. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly, while the flat glass-ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than counterparts made of electrical or gas. Induction ovens and hobs uk hobs are expensive and you'll need to invest in cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good alternative for those who do not want to invest in the induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface with heating elements that are hidden beneath, which makes them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean, as there's no need to do tricky cleaning. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they are not a good choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs, the affordable option, with their simple and sturdy design, are perfect for everyday cooking. They're easy to get hot, making them a good choice for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also emit lots of heat, which means they're not as efficient as the other options on this list.
If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we recommend looking for one that has been rated by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide you with an honest view into how it works, but it will also help you to find the right model for your home. For instance this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is made of long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances and give it a minimalist and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs may be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their instant heating and easy control, they're also popular because they are quick to heating. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that is sleek with touch controls and no dials or buttons sticking out. They are easier to clean with a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select one with child locks, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs that can stop accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications through your smartphone, so you can manage your stove with ease.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with both induction and gas burners for maximum flexibility. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that allows you to set specific cooking times for meals so they're ready for use when needed and reduces the risk of cooking too long and making food less tasty.
To make cooking more convenient for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate cooking pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This can save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Additionally, some stoves offer the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills for extra cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. If you prefer glass models there are a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the correct breakers and cables to function, which means you'll need it installed by an electrician.