Guide To Best Hobs: The Intermediate Guide For Best Hobs
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The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are favored by our experts for their versatility and precise control of the flame. Electric models are more energy efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer and power boost that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs offer a modern efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to only heat the copper coils beneath the pans. The cooktop remains cool to the touch, making it safer to use and simpler to clean. They are able to boil more quickly than kettles and use less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones, each with its own functions and a minute timer. It has a smooth, smooth surface that wipes clean with ease and is easy to use with the touch control panels, but one minor issue (which is common for 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 guarantee and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with the lowest power consumption of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows you to move your pans around within the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pans or pots and the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function, as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops the pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burnt food.
This is a low-cost induction hob that can be easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified by an arrow, cross or arrow to indicate the coil centre. There's also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a large "Flux Zone" which can hold larger pans or pots. It also comes pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is a great option for cooking using a variety of pans, all different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated and simmered at the same while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) remain the best choice for cooking in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to create high temperatures quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance, which is helpful for security reasons. It's a lot harder to forget to leave the burner on, or even switch it on by accident as it is with an electric hob.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface, which makes them easier to clean than ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, which saves energy costs. This is especially true for vented stoves, which incorporate the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for a vent hood. This can free up space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker oven and hob look that will be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models because of their efficiency and ease-of-use. These can be more straightforward to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is an excellent option if you are looking to go green. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you consider this option. In addition, these models require gas supply and ventilation, as well as regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're seeking an elegant and energy-efficient choice an induction cooker is definitely the option to choose. These hobs are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than their electric or gas counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good middle ground. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean since there's no need for a complicated scouring. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. They do not offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they may not be a good choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a straightforward and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They are quick to heat up, making them a good choice for those who do not require a powerful cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also give off a lot of residual heat, so they're not as efficient as other options on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on the websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide an honest assessment of the performance of the model however, it will also assist you in finding the right one for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is made of durable stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a modern and minimal look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric models are more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking functions like power up settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
Find an electric hob that has sleek design and touchscreen controls. Avoid those with dials or buttons that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly if you opt for a flat surface that won't scratch or chip. For safety, choose models with child lock as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that can help prevent accidents. And, if you have an intelligent home, opt for digital displays that give you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, so you can manage your hob with ease.
Think about a dual-fuel hob which has gas and induction burners for maximum flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that allows you to set cooking times for meals so they're ready when you need them which reduces the chance of overcooking and making food less tasty.
For added convenience, you might want a model that permits you to merge two cooking zones into one zone to accommodate pans of various dimensions and shapes. This can save space and be useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs starting at PS100 and more expensive models that can cost as high as 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 a variety of excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the correct cables and breakers in order to function, which means you will need to have it installed by an electrician.