12 Facts About Best Hobs To Make You Think Smarter About Other People
The Best HobsHobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs for their precise flame control and versatility. However, electric hobs can offer superior energy efficiency and are also easier to keep clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer which allow you to boost the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking area as gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat the copper coils that are beneath your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the touch which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. They're now a standard appliance in the HelloFresh's kitchen test kitchen. We love this sleek, premium model from AEG that comes with four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions as well as a handy minute reminder. It is smooth and can be cleaned easily and is simple to operate with the touch control panels, but one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be patchy; however it is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating and a low 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 and the 'Power Boost feature boosts the output by 50% for speedy boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function, as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops your pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burnt food items.
This is an induction cooktop with a low price tag that can be wired to a kitchen worktop or a new one. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified by the use of a cross or ring to show you where the center of the coil is and there's a simple touch-control panel. It has a large 'Flux Zone' which can hold larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is an excellent option when cooking with a variety of pans, all different shapes and sizes that need to be heated up, simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) are still the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They're the ideal choice for boiling water simmering sauces and soups as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to create high heat levels quickly and precisely, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at an instant. This is very useful to ensure safety. It's much more difficult to forget about leaving the burner on, or even switch it on by accident when compared to an electric hob.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's no material that could fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll have to be vigilant about cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, which saves energy costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for the grill. This can save on the space in your kitchen as well as resulting in an elegant design that can be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Because of their effectiveness and ease of use, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding instead of built-in models. They're simpler to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to go green. However, you'll need be able to find the right LPG boiler and stove before this is an option for you. These models require a gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're seeking a sleek and energy-efficient option an induction hob is the best way to go. Hobs that induction cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burning!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than their gas or electrical counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll need to invest in an induction-compatible set of cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good alternative. These sleek and stylish hobs are made of a smooth glass top that conceals heating elements. They are more visually appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need lengthy scouring. Additionally, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. However, they fall behind induction hobs when it regards energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy use this may not be the right choice for you.
Solid plate hobs are a good budget alternative, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require an electric Ovens & Hobs cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the best option for chefs who love to multitask. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other alternatives.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an accurate view of the performance of the product and will assist you in finding one that is right for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it a a modern and minimal look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs may be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and ease of control, they are also popular because they provide instant heating. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove, look for one that has a sleek design with touch controls and no buttons or dials hanging out. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly if you opt for a flat surface that won't chip or scratch. Select a model with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you control of your hob remotely and also notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can control your hob effortlessly.
Consider a dual-fuel hob that has both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that lets you set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready when you need them and reduces the risk of cooking too long and making food less tasty.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may want a model that allows you to combine two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various dimensions and shapes. This can help save space and be useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to provide additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in a range of prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to premium models costing up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a big brand should still cost you less than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model, it shouldn't break the bank also, as there are top options from own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the right breakers and cables to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.