The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms For Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs can be found in various 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 flame control. However, electric models can offer superior energy efficiency and are more easy to keep clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs offer a modern, efficient alternative to the traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as do gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to only warm the copper coils that are below the pans. The cooktop stays cool to the touch, making it safer to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and use less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's test kitchen, and we are in love with this elegant, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an easy-to-use minute reminder. 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 common issue with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating, with a low power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pots or pans as well as the 'PowerBoost' function increases the output by 50% for quick boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly marked with the use of a cross or ring to show you where the center of the coil is it, and there's also an easy-to-use control panel. It has a wide "Flux zone," which can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease and is pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is a great option for cooking using a variety of pans of various shapes and sizes that need to be heated and simmered at the exact while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop if you're American) is still the best when it comes to kitchen cooking. They are ideal for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces, frying meats and eggs as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high heat levels making them ideal for searing and boiling.
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 much harder to switch off a burner or forget that it was on.
The majority of 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 from splashes and spills. You'll need to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, saving on the cost of electricity. This is particularly true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for a vent hood. This can free up space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can blend into any interior style.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. They are simpler to install and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve minimalist kitchen designs.
Another advantage of choosing freestanding models is the possibility of connecting it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a greener option. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can look into this alternative. These models require a gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the best option if you want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. These hobs heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burning!) and more efficient, as they use less power than their electric or gas counterparts. However, one disadvantage of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase. You'll require an induction-compatible set of cookware.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent option for those who do not need to invest in induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements hidden underneath that make them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean as there's no need for a difficult cleaning. Additionally, 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 may not be a good choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Then, solid plate hobs are the budget option, with a straightforward and durable design that is perfect for everyday cooking. They're easy to get hot, making them a great option for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they may take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other options.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend looking for one that has been rated by customers on retailer websites. Not only will this give you an honest insight into the performance of the appliance however, it will aid you in finding a model that's right 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 blend in with other appliances in the kitchen, giving it a minimal and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs may be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their instant heating and easy control, they're also a popular choice due to the fact that they provide instant heat. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer sophisticated cooking functions, such as power increase settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
Look for an electric hob that has an elegant design and has control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid those with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface, which won't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you're a smart home, go for an electronic display that gives you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, so you can manage your stove with ease.
Look into a dual-fuel stove that has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It comes with intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports to support traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature that lets you set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed - reducing the risk of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may need an appliance that allows you to combine two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of different sizes and shapes. This can save space and be useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills as additional cooking options.
There are cheap gas hobs that start at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model, it won't cost a fortune too, since there are top options from own brands. Be best hob that both induction and ceramic hobs require a particular supply that is plugged in with the correct breakers and cables so you'll need to get it installed by a certified electrician.