Best Hobs: A Simple Definition
Best Hobs: A Simple Definition
Blog Article
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precision control of the flame. Electric models are more efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features like a timer or power boost that let you increase the heat quickly to speed up cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are an innovative and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do they utilize magnetic technology to only warm the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to the touch and is therefore safer to use and simpler to clean. They are able to boil more quickly than kettles and require less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with its specific functions and the minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the heat distribution is uneven. This is a frequent complaint with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency with the lowest power consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you to move your pans between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels according to the pots or pans you use. Additionally, the "Power Boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which prevents overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is an induction cooktop with a low price tag that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified by a ring or cross to show you where the center of the coil is it, and there's also an easy-to-use control panel. It features a large "Flux Zone" that can be used to accommodate larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is a great choice for cooking with a variety pans of various shapes and sizes that need to be heated and simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop, if you're American) remains the most popular choice in kitchen cooking. They are ideal for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats as well as pan-frying. Their popularity stems from their ability to generate high heat levels quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see each burner's status at an instant. This is extremely useful to ensure security. It's much harder to forget to leave a burner on, or switch it off by accident as it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface, which makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll need to remain cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy-efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, which saves energy costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for a vent hood. This can save on space in your kitchen, as well as creating an elegant and modern design that will be able to blend in 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. They are easier to install and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle oven and hob containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is an excellent option if you are looking to go green. However, you'll need to find an appropriate LPG boiler and stove before this is an option for you. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation as well as regular maintenance to ensure 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 way to go. They are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than electric or gas counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll need to invest in an induction-compatible set of cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements concealed beneath which makes them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs and easier to clean, as there's no need for tricky cleaning. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they are behind induction hobs when comes to energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy use this might not be the right choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, which are a budget option with their simple and sturdy design, are perfect for cooking in the everyday. They are easy to get hot, making them a good choice for those who do not need a powerful cooktop. However, they may take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs also emit lots of heat, which means they're not as energy-efficient like the other options on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a clear view into how it works, but it will assist you in locating the perfect model for your home. For example, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend in with other kitchen appliances and give it a minimalist and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the advantage of being energy efficient. Although gas hobs might be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and ease of control, they're also a popular choice because they are quick to heat. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob with a sleek design and touch controls. Avoid models with dials or buttons that are protruding. They are more easy to clean with a flat surface, which won't scratch or chip. To ensure safety, select one with child locks with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that can help prevent accidents. If you're a smart home, go for a digital display that gives you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, so you can control your hob effortlessly.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel stove that has induction and gas burners. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports to accommodate traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set cooking times so that your food is ready when you require it. This minimizes the chance of overcooking, and makes your food less delicious.
For added convenience, a model with two separate cooking pans in different shapes and sizes is the best option. This can help save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular cooking dishes such as roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model, it shouldn't cost much either as there are some excellent own-brand options. Be aware that both ceramic and induction hobs need a specific supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll have to have it installed by a certified electrician.