A Guide to Hobs in the UK

A hob is a kitchen appliance that fits inside the cutout of a worktop. It can be electric or gas, and come with up to six cooking rings. It is easy to clean and has modern design.

Smart hobs that can be customized and are compatible with home automation systems are of interest to consumers. They also want to lower the amount of energy used and improve hygiene.

Hobs with induction

Induction hobs that are stylish and efficient are a popular option for modern kitchens. In contrast to electric and gas models that rely on heating plates to heat cookware, induction hobs utilize electromagnetic technology to directly heat the pan. Underneath the glass-ceramic surface sit coils which an alternating current flows through. When a suitable pan is placed on the cooking area the coils generate an electric field that interacts with the metal in the pan, inducing electrical currents and generating heat. Induction hobs are more energy-efficient than traditional hobs and easier to clean.

Induction hobs also feature an easier-to-use design. The top of the appliance features an all-TFT display that can be used to control it. It displays the cookware that is currently in use and the power setting that you have selected. The control panel may also be locked to prevent accidental use of buttons. Many induction best hobs have an increase feature that boosts the power of the cooking area for a short period of time. This is useful to quickly bring the water in a pot to a boil, or heating the pan to cook.

A lot of induction hobs are frameless with the glass ceramic surface that is seamlessly integrated into your countertop. Some induction hobs are available in other colours to match the decor of your kitchen. They often also have sleek, minimalist controls with indicator lights that indicate the level of power and other functions.

To make the most of an induction cooktop, you'll need to purchase cookware that is compatible with induction. If you want to know if a pan will work on an induction stove, simply run an iron over the base of the pan. If the magnet adheres to it, then it is compatible. Many induction hobs have pan detection systems to prevent overuse of energy. The coils will only be activated when an appropriate pan or pans are available.

Induction hobs are ideal for shared homes or student housing because they don't feature an open flame, and are more secure than gas versions. They can produce a humming sound or ticking sound when being used, which may be annoying to some people.

Gas hobs

Gas hobs utilize natural gas or the liquefied gas that is used to heat your cookware. They are ideal for many cooking techniques. They provide precise temperature control, and are more efficient in heating than other electric alternatives, such as ceramic hobs. Cleaning them can be a messy process. Burner caps and wok stands must be cleaned frequently to ensure that everything is clean.

Most modern gas hobs utilise electronic ignition systems, which use an electric spark or continuous electric flame to ignite the burners and start the combustion process. They then use electrical components, such as sensors and switches to regulate the flow of gas through the system and ensure that the burners are operating properly. They could also have various control knobs that can be used to alter the flame intensity and heat output.

Gas hobs are available in various models, with one to six burners. Be aware of the dimensions of your pots when choosing the number, as you'll need to make sure that there are enough burners to accommodate all the cookware you plan to use. If you are a frequent stir-fryer then choose a model that has a dedicated wok burn. Some models also have griddle elements built in to make an easy and delicious breakfast or lunch.

The cost of running a gas hob should be a key factor when deciding on one. Gas hobs typically come with lower initial costs than induction hobs, but the operating cost can be a bit different depending on your local gas rates and usage patterns. It's also worth bearing in mind that a gas hob requires natural gas supplies and ventilation, which can increase installation costs over an induction or electric hob.

Vented hobs are a combination of two appliances into one unit making space for them and giving your kitchen a more modern look. They draw smoke and steam through a duct on the hob's surface, allowing them to work much more efficiently than traditional hoods as they are able to collect steam at the level of cooking instead of letting it rise and escape into your living spaces.

Portable hobs

A portable oven hob is a great alternative if you require more space in your kitchen or want to cook outdoors. They are designed to connect to your kitchen worktop, making them easy to use. You can also bring them with you when you want to cook elsewhere. They are also helpful for those who want to revamp your kitchen or need more space for your hob in busy times.

Induction hobs are becoming more popular in both residential and commercial kitchens because they're fast, safe, energy efficient, and easy to clean. They work by creating an electric current that flows through a magnetic coil, which heats up the pan you place on the top. This means there's no wasted heat' like an electric or gas hob which helps reduce your expenses.

This Belling hob features two cooking zones, the double ring design can be used with many different saucepans and pots. Its intuitive interface and good heat distribution mean it was an absolute hit with testers, who even appreciated the ability to alter the temperature of the two zones beneficial. The only drawback was that it took over 12 minutes to boil 1 litre of water which could be frustrating for those who are time-pressed.

If you're looking for a compact model the Smeg model could be worth a look. It's lightweight and thin - less than half the size of some of the other models on this list, making it easy to store when not in use. Its brushed silver finish looks elegant and is easier to clean than the shiny finishes on other hobs.

These hobs can be a great smaller alternative to full-sized versions however they are hot and could cause serious burns. This is why we recommend careful handling and sensible placement, with the plug far away from children and away from areas where someone could slip over it. Many models come with a child lock that can be a useful feature for parents with children.