10 Facts About Best Hobs That Will Instantly Put You In A Good Mood
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are favored by our experts for their versatility and precision control of flames. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and easier to clean. Look for features like power boost and timer that let you increase the heat quickly to speed up cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs provide a contemporary, efficient alternative to the traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do they employ magnetic technology to warm the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to the touch which makes it safer to use and simpler to clean. They can boil water faster than a kettle and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with its specific functions and an hour timer. 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 hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive environmental credentials. It has an A+ energy rating and a low power usage of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you move your pans within the four zones and adjust the power levels to suit 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 useful features include an auto-shutoff function, as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, which means you do not need to worry about burning food items.
This is a fantastic low-cost induction hob that can be easily wired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified by a ring or cross to indicate which side of the coil is, while there's an easy-to-use control panel. It comes with a large 'Flux Zone' that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed to have preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is an excellent option when cooking with a variety of pans, all different sizes and shapes 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) remain the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water simmering soups and sauces, frying meats and eggs as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately generate high temperatures making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows users to check the status of every burner in one glance, which is useful for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally switch on the burner or forget that it was on.
Most models have a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to remain careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction cousins because they heat up faster and more evenly, which reduces electricity costs. This is especially true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one unit and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This will save 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.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. They are easier to install and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option if you are looking to go green. However, you'll need be able to locate an appropriate LPG stove and boiler before this becomes an option for you. These models require gas supply, ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the ideal choice if you're looking for an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) and more efficient, as they use less power than their gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll need to buy kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, as they don't require a lengthy scouring. Plus, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they might not be an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs, a budget option with their simple and sturdy design, are ideal for cooking at home. 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, which is why they're not the best option for chefs who love to be multitasking. hobs oven are not as efficient in energy as other options.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an accurate view of the quality of the product however, it will also help you find the right one for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's made of sturdy stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred choice for many cooks due to their rapid heat and simple control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob make sure you choose one that is sleek with touch controls and without dials or buttons hanging out. They are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface, and won't scratch or chip. For security, opt for models with child lock, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, you might prefer an electronic display that allows you to manage your hob from afar and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with induction and gas burners. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set cooking times so that food is ready when you require it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less delicious.
For additional convenience, a model with two separate cooking zones for pans in different sizes and shapes may be the best option. This can save space and be useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs for sale 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 plenty of great options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. However, bear in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs need a specific supply with the appropriate breakers and cables so you'll have to have it installed by a certified electrician.