Forget Best Hobs: 10 Reasons Why You No Longer Need It
The Best Hobs Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The best hob s are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean. Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precision control of flames. However, electric models can provide superior energy efficiency and are more easy to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features such as a power boost and a timer. 1. Hobs induction Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space like gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to heat up the copper coils below your pans. The cooktop remains cool to touch, making it safer to use and easier to clean. They boil more quickly than kettles and require less energy. They are now a staple appliance in the HelloFresh's kitchen test kitchen. We love this sleek, premium model by AEG which boasts four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions and an easy-to-use minute minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are simple to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a frequent complaint 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 the size of your saucepans or pots. Additionally, the “Power Boost” function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up the boiling process. Other handy features include an auto-shut off function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burnt food. This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that is easily wired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly marked with the use of a cross or ring to show you which side of the coil lies beneath and there's a simple touch-control panel. It has a wide “Flux zone,” which can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is great if you often cook with different sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought to a boiling point, then simmered and kept warm simultaneously. 2. Gas Hobs Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are still the best choice for cooking in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs and meats, frying them as well as pan-frying. Their popularity stems from their ability to create high heat levels quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for searing and boiling. The visual flame indicator makes it easy to determine each burner's status at glance. This is very helpful to ensure safety. With an electric hob, it's much harder to switch off the burner or forget that it was on. Most models have a flat surface, which makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll need to be vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 becoming stained over time. Gas hobs are also more energy-efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on electricity costs. This is especially true with vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one unit and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This can save on space in your kitchen, and also create an elegant design that can blend in with any style of interior. Due to their efficiency and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding instead of built-in models. These can be easier to install and provide more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist look for your kitchen. Another benefit of opting for freestanding models is the ability to connect it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source for you're looking for a greener option. However, you'll need be able to find a suitable LPG boiler and stove before this is an option for you. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks. 3. Sealed Plate Hobs If you're seeking a sleek and energy-efficient option, an induction hob is definitely the choice. These hobs are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. oven uk are more secure (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than counterparts made of electrical or gas. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware. If you don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements that are hidden beneath which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean since there's no need for difficult scrubbing. Plus, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. However, they fall behind induction hobs when it comes to energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy usage this may not be the best choice for you. Solid plate hobs, a budget option with their simple and durable design, are ideal for everyday cooking. They're easy to get hot and ideal for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they're not quick to cool down, so they're not the ideal choice for chefs who love to multitask. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, making them not as efficient as the other options on this list. We suggest that you search for reviews on the websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you an accurate view of the performance of the product however, it will also assist you in finding one that is right for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it is finished in robust stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance. 4. Electric Hobs Electric hobs have the advantage of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their rapid heating and control, they're also popular because they provide instant heat. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have advanced cooking functions like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households. Find an electric hob with a a streamlined design with touch controls. Avoid models with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are more easy to clean if they have a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for an electronic display that gives you control of your hob remotely and also notifications via your smartphone, so you can control your hob with ease. Look into a dual-fuel stove that has both induction and gas burners for maximum flexibility. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and durable cast iron pan supports that support traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that lets you set specific cooking times for dishes so they're ready when you need them which reduces the chance of overcooking and making food less delicious. For added convenience, a model with two separate cooking pans of various sizes and shapes may be the best choice. This can help save space and is useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to offer additional cooking options. You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it shouldn't break the bank too, since there are fantastic options that are made by own brand. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the right cables and breakers to function, which means you will need to have it installed by an electrician.