How To Build A Successful Hobs If You're Not Business-Savvy
How To Build A Successful Hobs If You're Not Business-Savvy
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential part of any kitchen. Modern ones are typically made of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They use electric energy but can be cheaper than gas hobs. They also work with almost every cookware type however, induction hobs require compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or a dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod", which means a crag, a hill or a"crag.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits that do domestic chores. They are generally kind but they can become a nuisance when offended. One such hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking device is another common use. A hob is an iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob is typically flat and is adorned with cooking elements, such as rings. In some cases the hob could be replaced by a flat stone to allow it to be used as a target for quoits.
The first documented usage of the term "hob" is from the early sixteenth century. It was probably taken over as the female version hobgoblin. The word hob is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are known for playing pranks, despite their benign nature. They can also be very destructive if they are provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to put carts on its roof, causing an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly found in the UK they are also used in other countries. Gas and electric hobs are available. They can be controlled with the press of one button, and can be utilized alongside other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some stoves can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making them more convenient to use. These kinds of features are enticed customers to purchase these devices. Additionally, some models feature advanced security features, like a child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for their rapid heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to the touch and they heat up only when they are in contact with cookware compatible, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is also shut off immediately after the cookware has left the cooking area. These safety features can be particularly beneficial in homes where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction stoves use less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models feature the 'Stop and Go' function, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for ease of use when you must leave the kitchen. Some models have a bridge feature that joins two induction zones to create one large zone controlled by one control. This gives you more flexibility. You can also make use of larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones that have the ability to connect multiple zones.
The power settings on a stove can be adjusted with simple, intuitive controls that are easy to read and use. Many also offer timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that makes use of the maximum power only for the amount of time and an easy 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electronic hob is easy to clean and doesn't contain the nooks and crannies of conventional gas burners, which can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add design and elegance to the modern kitchen, with sleek, contemporary lines that blend with other appliances and decor.
Sensors are employed in hobs with automatic shut-off functions. They check the surface of the hob for signs of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to avoid injury and fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs as it reduces the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also employ sensors to determine if cookware isn't in contact with the oven to prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are many different kinds of hobs that are available, so it's important to determine which one is right for your kitchen. Some features include heating control energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of hob you select will also affect your budget, both the initial cost as well as the ongoing costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame with natural gas. They heat pots and pans. They are a favorite choice for many home cooks due to their instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. They are also not affected by power failures and can be used with a broad variety of cooking equipment. Gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more vulnerable to flare-ups due to accident which is why you must be mindful of the open flame and ensure the stove is adequately protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs, another option for cooking, use electric elements under the ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based kitchen appliances. They take longer to cool and heat than other types of hobs and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plate hobs, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more efficient in energy use however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some have touchscreen controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, leading oven with hob to faster heating and a more uniform distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners that are exposed, making them easier to clean. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and may not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are a risky part of your kitchen if you don't take the necessary precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not properly cleaning them can cause fires which could harm your kitchen and cause injury to you or others. That's why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the main causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which can create a fire risk. Many hobs come with safety systems that keep track of operating temperatures to avoid overheating. These systems employ power modulation to ensure that the heat output remains constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob as well as its components, while making sure that there are no fire hazards on the surrounding surfaces in the kitchen.
Induction hobs are deemed safe for use although some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs aren't as strong and powerful as those produced by mobile phones and their radiation isn't ionizing.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types cookware. It is important to ensure that your saucepans and pots are induction ready before you begin using them. A simple method to check this is to place a magnet at the base of the pan. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Using the wrong type of cookware could result in the hob becoming damaged and causing an accident.
Keep children and others away from the cooking area while it is in use. The surface can become extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves when you touch metal pan handles because they can be extremely hot. It's important to turn off your hob immediately after use, since it could remain hot for some time. If a fire occurs, follow the fire service instructions - call 911 and leave your house as fast as you can.