Guide To Best Hobs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Best Hobs
The Best hob Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts for their versatility and precision control of the flame. However, electric hobs can provide superior energy efficiency and are easier to keep clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features such as an energy boost or a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs provide a contemporary, efficient alternative to the traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to heat only the copper coils underneath the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact, making them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones each with its own functions and a minute 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 common issue for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with a low power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you to move your pans between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels to suit the size of your saucepans or pots. Additionally, the "Power booster" function boosts the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which helps to prevent overheating of your pan are other useful features.
This is a great low-cost induction hob uk that is easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified by a ring or cross to show which side of the coil lies beneath and there's a simple touch-control panel. It features an enormous "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 option when cooking with a variety of pans of various shapes and sizes that need to be heated up and simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are the best hob option to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups as well as for frying eggs and meats as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to produce high levels of heat quickly and precisely, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to check each burner's status at a glance. This is very helpful for security. It's much more difficult to forget about leaving the burner on, or even switch it on by accident as it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's nothing that can stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to keep on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than induction cousins, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on the cost of electricity. This is especially true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This will save the space in your kitchen as well as resulting in an elegant and modern design that will blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models because of their efficiency and convenience. These are easier to install, and offer more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a minimalist kitchen designs.
Another advantage of choosing an independent model is the possibility of connecting it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG), which provides an alternative energy source if you're looking for a greener alternative. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can consider this alternative. In addition, these models require gas supply and ventilation as well as regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're seeking an energy-efficient and sleek option an induction cooker is definitely the way to go. These hobs heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient, as they consume less power than their electric or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll have to invest in induction-compatible cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs can be a good alternative. These stylish oven and hob sleek hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with 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 difficult cleaning. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs, so they are not a good choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Finally, solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require an electric cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, so they're not the best option for dynamic chefs who like to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs also emit a lot of residual heat, so they're not as efficient as the other choices on this list.
We recommend looking for reviews on retailer websites if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you an accurate view of the quality of the product and will aid you in locating the right one for your home. For example, this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances with a sleek and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular choice for many cooks due to their rapid heat and simple control, electric models offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. 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.
Find an electric hob that has an elegant design and has control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid models with buttons or dials that are protruding. They are easier to clean if they have a flat surface, and won't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks, 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 with ease.
For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with gas burners and induction. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set cooking times so that food is ready when you need it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less tasty.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of varying dimensions and shapes. This can save space and is useful if you cook with large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to give you additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in different prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should still cost you not more than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model, it won't cost a fortune also, as there are top options from own brands. Be aware that both ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the appropriate cables and breakers to work so you'll have to have it installed by a certified electrician.