The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms For Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs will be sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts recommend gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. However, electric hobs can provide superior energy efficiency and are also easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features like an energy boost or a timer.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as gas hobs do they employ magnetic technology to warm up the copper coils below your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They boil water faster than kettles and require less power. They're now a common kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen, and we are in love with this sleek, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions and an efficient minute reminder. It is smooth and wipes clean with ease and is easy to use with the touch control panels. However, one minor issue (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be patchy; however it is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive environmental credentials. It has an A+ energy rating and the lowest power consumption of 750W for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you to move your pans between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels to suit your pots or saucepans. In addition, the "Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shut off function as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating so you don't have to worry about burnt food.
This is an induction stove that is priced at a bargain that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified with the ring, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. It also has a touch-control panel. It has a wide "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pots and pans effortlessly and is pre-programmed to have set power levels in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that need to be brought to a 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 in cooking in the kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately produce high heat levels which makes them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is useful for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's much harder to switch off the burner or forget that it was turned on.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's nothing that can keep out spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to be on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts as they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces electricity costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs, which combine two appliances and eliminate the need for an Hood. This can save space in your kitchen, and create an elegant look that can be a perfect fit with any interior style.
Because of their efficiency and ease of use, many homeowners opt for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. They are more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option if you want to go green. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you look into this option. Moreover, these models will require gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're looking for a sleek and energy-efficient option an induction hob is definitely the choice. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pots and pans directly while the glass-ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (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 can be expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll have to purchase a set of induction-compatible cookware.
Ceramic hobs are a good option for those who don't want to invest in the induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs are made of a smooth glass top with hidden heating elements. They're more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, as they don't require a hard scrubbing. Additionally, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. Best ovens don't offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they might not be the best choice if are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs, the budget option with their simple and durable design, are ideal for cooking at home. They are easy to heat up, making them a great choice for those who don't require a powerful cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs are not as energy efficient as other options.
We recommend looking for reviews on retailer websites when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you an honest assessment of the performance of the product however, it will also help you find the one that is suitable for your home. For example, 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 with other kitchen appliances with a sleek and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks thanks to their instant heat and simple control, electric hobs are more energy-efficient. And with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
When choosing an electric hob make sure you choose one that's streamlined with touch controls and no dials or buttons hanging out. This makes them easier to clean, especially when you select a flat surface that won't scratch or chip. For safety, choose a model with child locks, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs that can prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may prefer an electronic display that lets you control your hob remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob which has both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports that allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready when you need them and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less delicious.
For added convenience For added convenience, a model that has two separate cooking pans in different shapes and sizes is the best choice. This can help save space and is ideal when cooking with large rectangular cooking dishes, like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to offer additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at a range of prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for glass models, there are many excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. However, bear in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll need it installed by a qualified electrician.