11 "Faux Pas" That Actually Are Okay To Use With Your Best Hobs
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The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in different sizes and materials. The best hobs are robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs because of their precise flame control and flexibility. However, electric models can offer superior energy efficiency and are more easy to keep clean. Look for features such as a timer or power boost that let you increase the heat quickly to speed up cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a modern efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs they utilize magnetic technology to heat up the copper coils below your pans. The cooktop stays cool to touch and is therefore more secure to use and easier for cleaning. They also boil water quicker than traditional kettles and use less energy. They're now a standard appliance in the HelloFresh's kitchen test kitchen. We appreciate this elegant, premium model from AEG that comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an easy-to-use minute timer. It has a smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to operate with the touch control panels. However, one small issue (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven, but it is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency and the lowest energy consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you to move your pans between the four zones, and adjust the power levels to suit the size of your saucepans or pots. Meanwhile, the 'Power boost" function boosts the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor,' which prevents overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is a affordable induction cooker that can be easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are marked with the ring, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. There is also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a large "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pans and pots effortlessly and is pre-programmed so that you have set power levels in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is great if you regularly cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans, which need to be brought to a boiling point, simmered and then kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to create high levels of heat quickly and precisely, making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance. This is very useful to ensure safety. It's a lot harder to forget to turn off a burner on, or to switch it on by accident as it is with an electric hob.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes and spills. You'll need to be careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts as they heat up more quickly and more evenly, which reduces energy costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one unit and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This can help save the space in your kitchen and also create an elegant and modern design that will blend into any style of interior.
As a result of their efficiency and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own rather than built-in versions. They're simpler to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option for those who you want to go green. However, you'll need be able to locate the right LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. These models require gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the best option if you want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. They are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, since they consume less power than their gas or electric counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't wish to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need difficult scouring. They also get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they are not an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, the affordable option, with their simple and sturdy design, are perfect for everyday cooking. They are quick to get hot, making them a good option for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they do take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other options.
If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we recommend selecting one that has been rated by customers on the websites of retailers. Not only will this provide you with a clear view into how it works, but it will also help you to find the perfect model for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls blend with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite option for cooks due to their instant heat and easy control, electric models are more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer advanced cooking functions like power boost settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob make sure you choose one that has a sleek design with touch controls and no dials or buttons hanging out. They are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface, and won't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. And, if you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, ensuring you can control your hob effortlessly.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob that includes gas and induction burners. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that allows you to set cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready when you need them - reducing the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may want a model that allows you to combine two cooking zones into a single zone to accommodate pans of various sizes and shapes. This will save space and is ideal if you often cook with large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a major brand should cost not more than PS200. If you're looking for a glass model there are plenty of great options from own-brand manufacturers. Be aware that both ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the appropriate ovensandhobs.uk breakers and cables so you'll have to have it installed by a licensed electrician.