Types of ovens and hobs uk

The hob is the center of every kitchen, no matter if you are cooking a kettle or roasting a chicken. They come in a range of sizes and styles, and there are various hob types to choose from including gas, electric ceramic, domino and ceramic.

Electric hobs have smooth surfaces and are easy to clean, however they take some time to cool down or heat down. They are also only compatible with flat-bottomed pots and include heat indicators.

Ceramic Hobs

Ceramic hobs have revolutionised the way we cook, presenting modern and sleek design and are easy to use. They function by using heating elements under the glass surface, which is tempered, to spread heat evenly and quickly across your cookware. Ceramic hobs come in a variety of styles, ranging from traditional electric and gas burners to more contemporary designs. The majority feature a black glazed surface which is durable and resistant to scratches and chips.

The smooth flat surfaces of these hobs are easy to clean and wash in one sweep - you can even use the majority of common kitchen cleaners. They don't feature open flames, making them a safer option for those with children or elderly relatives in the house. They typically feature the option of touch or rotary controls for safety, and a residual temperature indicator that alerts you if a zone remains hot after removing the pan from the stove.

They cost more than a basic electric cooker but cheaper than an induction model. They can be a good choice for those who do not have gas at their property. Like induction models, these are more efficient if you cookware has flat bottoms that maximize the area of contact with elements. The heating system won't recognize pots and pans that aren't exactly the same size as the element.

It is essential to have an electrician install your ceramic hob. Electricity work can be dangerous if not done properly. Moreover, failure to have your ceramic oven hob professionally installed may invalidate the warranty and could cause fire hazards in the future. It's a small price to pay to ensure your peace of mind and ensuring that your new cooktop is safe for use.

Gas Hobs

Gas hobs or gas cooktops are powered by liquefied petroleum gases (LPG). They are typically integrated into countertops or kitchen units. It comprises a number of burners that can be lit manually with matches or lighters, and controlled with a series of knobs that allow you to control the heat level during cooking. The main advantage of gas hobs is that they give instant heat compared to electric hobs and can be used for all kinds of cooking, from simmering to boiling to frying or sauteing.

Gas hobs have the disadvantage of requiring gas supply system and ventilation for operation. This makes them more expensive to install and may not be as efficient as induction hobs. They also pose a safety risk as they are fueled by gas that is flammable and require regular maintenance to check for gas leaks.

Induction hobs are yet another popular option. They make use of electromagnetic technology to heat directly your pans. This allows them to boil water faster than gas models, and also provide precise temperature control. However, induction hobs only work with induction-compatible pans and are a bit more expensive than some other hobs.

Another alternative is a ceramic glass hob. It has a sleek appearance and is easy to clean. It is available on both electric and induction models and is usually the Best Ovens option for those who prefer an elegant, modern look to their kitchen. It is important to know that this model can become extremely hot and take a lot longer to cool and heat than gas or electric models.

Freestanding gas stoves or gas hobs are a more traditional option that is perfect for homes with large kitchens and open-plan layouts in which they are the focal point. It requires a space and is typically fitted by professionals who are competent to manage the installation process, which involves handling gas connections that can present risks if not handled correctly.

Hobs induction

A popular option for those looking for an elegant and efficient method to cook, induction stoves employ electromagnetic induction technology to heat pans. Beneath the glass surface sit coils that when a suitable pan is placed on the top of them emit a magnetic field which creates an electrical current to be pushed through the base of the pan. This creates heat that quickly warms the food within, while the cooktop itself remains cool to the touch.

Induction hobs are also renowned as being more energy efficient than traditional models, whether they're gas or electric. They only heat the area in which a pan is placed which means less the amount of waste and energy used. Many induction hobs also come with a safety feature which shuts off the hob in the event that no pan is detected or if the pan has been removed, thereby reducing the amount of waste.

Induction models, like gas hobs, come with various control options such as dial, slide and touchscreen controls. The slider control is similar to a standard knob on a cooker and lets you alter the power level in a simple movement. Dial controls are like a standard knob, and feature a large dial that is able to be rotated to select the desired setting. Touchscreen hobs, typically found on more expensive induction models with advanced features, are an alternative option. Hobs with touchscreens feature digital displays that are easy to read and adjust.

Induction hobs are available with integrated extractors that work in conjunction with the hood to remove steam and smoke from the kitchen, and to stop condensation and mould. They can be operated separately from the other hobs and are usually activated via an electronic sensor or button. They can also be programmed to automatically switch on when the pan is placed over a cooking area.

The biggest drawback of induction hobs is they require a specific type of cookware to operate. The bottom of the pan needs to have a magnetic base to be able to generate the electromagnetic induction process and even then, it's not guaranteed to work with all models. Cast iron, stainless-steel with magnetized bases, and some nonstick pans can all be used with induction hobs. However, it is recommended to always consult with the manufacturer to make sure that your pan is compatible prior to purchasing a model.

Domino Hobs

The versatility of a domino hob is perfect for those with smaller kitchens but want to explore cooking styles. You can create an open kitchen by mixing and matching the two-zone ceramic, gas, and induction domino stoves. There's even a Siemens griddle.

Solid plate hobs are the most basic type of hobs. They use sealed plates made of metal to heat electrical elements. They then heat your cookware. They are simple to use, inexpensive and durable. They can take some time to heat and cool down and are more costly to operate than other types of hobs.

A popular alternative to solid plate hobs is the halogen model which uses a row of halogen bulbs on the glass ceramic surface to generate heat. This kind of hob is quick and responsive since the bulbs glow quickly and then transfer heat directly to the pan. However, halogen hobs can be prone to damage due to scraping against the hard-wearing surface, as well as being less energy efficient than other types of hob.

Induction hobs are a new ovens and hobs uk becoming increasingly popular type of hob employing electromagnetic technology to heat the cooking areas instead of the surface. They are more economical and green than other types of hobs however they are more expensive than gas and will require specific cookware compatible with induction.

Ceramic hobs, with their flat design that blends seamlessly into your worktops, are a stylish and modern choice. They provide a smoother experience to the cooking area. The surface is easy to clean and does not require any special cleaning products. Certain models have a fashionable frameless appearance and can be customized with dials or touch controls, depending on your preferences.

When you are buying a new stove, make sure you look for features such as overheat protection. This shuts off the heating element once it exceeds a dangerous temperature. Check for residual heat indicators that will alert you to an overheated hob. A pause function can temporarily turn off the cooking zones in use. This is helpful if you need to leave the kitchen.