Guide To Best Hobs: The Intermediate Guide For Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs for their precise flame control and versatility. However, electric models can be more efficient in energy use and are easier to keep clean. Look for features like a timer and power boost that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to accelerate cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to heat the copper coils underneath the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They can boil water faster than a kettle and use less power. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with its own functions and an hour timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a frequent complaint for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency with a low power consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and adjust their power levels to suit your pans or pots, while the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% to ensure quick boiling. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your cooking pan from overheating so you don't need to worry about burning food items.
This is a fantastic affordable induction cooker that can be easily hardwired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified with the ring, cross or arrow to indicate the coil centre. It also has an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a large "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels set in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is an excellent option for cooking with a variety of pans, all different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated up and simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) are still the best option to cook in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups, frying meats and eggs as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately create high heat levels, making them perfect for searing and boiling.
The flame's visual indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is beneficial for safety reasons. It's a lot harder to forget to leave a burner on, or switch it off by accident when compared to an electric hob.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be vigilant about cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are also more efficient in energy than their induction counterparts since they heat up more quickly and more evenly, reducing energy costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances and eliminate the requirement for the hood. This can free up space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker appearance that will blend into any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. They are easier to install and provide more flexibility if you're looking to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
Another benefit of opting for freestanding models is the ability to connect it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG), which provides an alternative energy source if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you consider this option. In addition, these models require a gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're looking for an elegant and energy-efficient choice an induction cooker is the best option to choose. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly, while the flat ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than their counterparts made of electrical or gas. However, the drawback of induction hobs uk is that they are expensive to purchase and you'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great alternative. These sleek and stylish ovens hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements concealed beneath which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs and easier to clean, as there's no need for complicated scrubbing. Plus, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when is energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy use this might not be the best choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, a low-cost option with their basic and reliable design, are great for cooking at home. They are quick to warm up, which makes them an ideal choice for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other options.
If you're thinking about buying a solid plate oven hob, we recommend selecting one that has been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. This will not only give you an accurate view of the performance of the product however, it will also help you find the right one for your home. For instance, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, creating a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs may be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and control, they are also a popular choice due to the fact that they are quick to heating. With modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent choice for busy households.
Find an electric hob that has sleek design and touch controls. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are easier to clean with a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you're a smart home, go for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can control your hob effortlessly.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for zones of induction, and sturdy cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set specific cooking times to ensure that food is ready when you need it. This helps reduce the risk of overcooking, and makes your food less delicious.
Lastly, for added convenience, you may need an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can help save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to provide additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at different prices, from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a major brand should cost not more than PS200. If you're looking for a glass model there are plenty of great options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the correct cables and breakers to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.