Types of Oven Hob

A hob is an elevated flat surface that is used to heat pots and pans. There are several different types of hobs available, such as electric, gas, and induction.

The features to look for include touch, rotary and position controls. These controls allow you to control heating zones by pressing the button. They also prevent them from being knocked down easily, particularly if they are used by children.

Ceramic Hobs

Ceramic hobs are a fantastic option for modern kitchens, mixing style and function. However, the glossy surface is prone to scratches and stains caused by cooking and food residues that are burned on. Keeping your hob clean with a regular routine and avoiding using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads is essential to keep it in good condition and functioning efficiently.

The hobs of this style are heated by passing an electrical current through coiled metal elements which are hidden beneath the glass surface. These elements generate heat when they are turned on using control knobs. Some models have an element that radiates that emits heat across the glass surface. Some models employ the halogen element, which is more efficient. They heat the entire surface in repeated pulses.

Some of our ceramic hobs come with advanced safety features, for example, a residual heat indicator, which warns you when the surface remains hot to the surface. This prevents burns. Some ceramic hobs are equipped with child locks that prevent children from accidentally changing the settings.

It is important to use the right cookware for your ceramic stove. This ensures that the pans have a flat bottom, which promotes even heat distribution and helps prevent hot spots that could cause under or overcooked food. Also, avoid drag pans across the kitchen surface as this could scratch the glass.

To cook with greater flexibility we recommend ceramic hobs with a dual ring design or 'I-Flex' zone that can be used to accommodate two pots in a single or one large pan (you'll need to have a minimum 30cm sized pan to allow it to register). We also have models equipped with a booster burner to allow rapid heating of specific areas or pots - ideal for stir-fry or searing steak. There are also models with an auto shut-off feature which turns off the hob after a set time to prevent overheating. This is a great security feature that gives you peace of peace of. This feature is typically activated by pressing the "Power' button on the control panel if you have your appliance set to the maximum temperature and there is no activity for a preset period of time.

Gas Hobs

A gas hob, sometimes known as gas stove or gas cooker, is an appliance for kitchen use that makes use of flammable natural or liquid petroleum gas (LPG) as its source of fuel. The flame heats both the cookware and the air surrounding it. This allows for rapid cooking and precise temperature control. Gas hobs are designed to be elevated, which offers extra security by preventing your body from coming into contact with the flame. This eliminates the risk of burning. This design is elevated and requires extra care when using or cleaning the hob to avoid spilling liquids onto the burners.

A traditional gas hob is ignited by a match or by an igniter and the burners are controlled manually. Modern models come with an automatic igniter that ensures the gas is lit automatically. The flame can be controlled using the control knobs. This makes it simple to alter the level of heat. Certain gas hobs have multiple flame burners, dependent on the model. This allows for greater cooking flexibility.

Gas hobs require a continuous gas supply, which may be an issue when you live in a region that has a non-reliable or unstable supply. Additionally, gas hobs require regular maintenance to avoid harmful corrosion and leaks. Gas hobs should be installed by Gas Safe registered Fitters who can guarantee a safe installation and adhere to strict safety protocols.

While induction and electric hobs are becoming more popular but there is a substantial market for gas appliances in certain regions. This is due to consumer preferences and environmental concerns in addition to local energy prices and availability. It is essential to take into consideration the infrastructure and utility costs prior to choosing a type.

Hobs Induction

Induction hobs are the most popular choice for our customers who are looking for an elegant, modern kitchen. They use magnetism to warm the pans instead of heating plates or burning gas beneath. Beneath the glass ceramic surface sit copper coils that create an electric current that alternatingly flows through. When an induction-compatible saucepan is placed on the top of the cooker, the coils sense the magnetic base and generate heat directly into the pan or the pan itself. This is much more efficient than traditional gas hobs, and is more energy efficient as well. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to touch and easy to clean.

Induction hobs are designed to be less difficult than gas hobs to clean. A simple wipe using a damp cloth is all you require to keep your induction hob looking as great as new.

Induction cooking requires that you use the right cookware. Stainless steel, cast iron and certain non-stick pans are compatible however they require an induction-compatible magnetic base. If you're not sure whether your existing cookware is induction-compatible, a quick test is to place a magnet on the bottom of the pan. If it sticks firmly, then your pan is induction-compatible.

A variety of induction hobs are available, from budget models to top brands that come with a full TFT display and comprehensive operating menu. When a pan is set in a power zone the hob will display its position on a full-color display, and also have the option of a slider or control button that lets you change the power setting or set the timer. There are many clever accessories, such as pan sensors that stick to the sides of cookware to communicate with the hob via bluetooth to control the power.

Induction hobs equipped with a built-in fan can reduce smoke, steam, and cooking odors. This model is ideal for homes with a limited space as it does not require an extractor fan. It utilizes magnetic fields in the kilohertz frequency band to generate heat that indirectly affects the pan and its contents. In normal operation the magnetic fields are within the range of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection's reference value for the magnetic density at the relevant frequency. There are no health risks to be expected.

Electric Hobs

The top electric hobs have a a sleek finish and are designed to fit all kitchen designs. They are a great option for those who prefer the convenience of using touch controls rather than dials and come with many options to suit your cooking needs. They are mostly made of glass, which is easy to clean and can also look stylish if you opt for a black or white design. Some come with a bridge function to combine two zones to accommodate larger pans, while others have the power boost button to provide additional heat when doing something difficult.

Induction hobs are growing in popularity because they offer a modern and clean design that fits well with today's kitchen designs. They also cook quickly and offer a high level of security. They tend to cool quicker than gas cookers, and they come with an indicator light that remains on when the cooking zone gets hot to the touch. They are also more efficient because the magnetic field only heats the pan, not the air surrounding it.

But, there are a few things to bear in mind when selecting an induction hob which is that most require a power supply configured with the appropriate breakers and cables, so we'd suggest having your electric hob installed by a certified electrician. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll have to purchase a set of compatible induction pans to get the most benefit from them. They may cost more because they use more energy.

Why not take a look at our extensive collection of kitchen appliances if you're thinking of a new kitchen, or replacing your old hob? We can assist you in choosing the perfect oven hob to match your style and preferences. Our experts are always available to discuss your options and answer any questions you have. We offer an all-encompassing delivery service and can even install your new appliance for you if you'd like us to.