Best Hobs Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
The Best Hobs
Hobs can be found in various sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts for their versatility and precision flame control. But, electric models provide superior energy efficiency and are also easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features such as an energy boost or a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking space as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat only the copper coils that are beneath the pans. The cooktop remains cool to touch which makes it safer to use and easier for cleaning. They can boil more quickly than kettles and require less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with its own functions and a minute timer. 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 hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency with a low energy consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter their power levels to suit your pans or pots, while the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which prevents overheating of your pan are also helpful features.
This is an induction cooktop with a low price tag that can be hardwired to a worktop or new one. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified by an arrow or cross to show where the centre of the coil is, while there's a simple touch-control panel. It features a large "Flux Zone" which can hold larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is great if you regularly cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans, which need to be brought to a boil, simmered and kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) are the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water, simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs and meats, frying them, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately produce high heat levels, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
Their visual flame indication also makes it easy to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is beneficial for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally switch on a burner or forget that it was on.
Most models have a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can keep out spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be vigilant about cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction cousins because they are able to heat faster and more evenly, which reduces the cost of electricity. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and remove the need for a hood. This can save space in your kitchen and create a sleeker appearance that will be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models due to their efficiency and convenience. They're simpler to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option if you want to go green. But, you'll need find the right LPG boiler and stove before this option becomes a possibility for you. ovens and hobs require gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great option if you want an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. Hobs that induction heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. oven hob are more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient, as they use less electricity than their gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to invest in kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
If you don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They are more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs since they don't require difficult scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they are behind induction hobs when is energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy consumption this may not be the best choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, the affordable option, with their simple and reliable design, are great for cooking in the everyday. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't need an electric cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, so they're not the ideal choice for chefs who are able to multitask. Solid plate hobs also give off lots of heat, so they're not as efficient as the other choices on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we suggest selecting one that has been reviewed by customers on the websites of retailers. Not only will this provide you with a clear view into how it performs however, it will assist you in locating the right model for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's finished in sturdy stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, creating a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular option for cooks due to their quick heating and easy to control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs that offer advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob, look for one that has a sleek design with touch controls and without dials or buttons that stick out. They are more easy to clean if they have a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. For safety, choose a model with child locks with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs that will prevent accidents. If you have a smart home, you may prefer a digital display which lets you manage your hob from afar and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
To maximize flexibility, think about a dual fuel stove that has gas and induction burners. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set cooking times so that your food is ready when you require it. This helps reduce the risk of overcooking, and makes your food less tasty.
For added convenience, a model with two separate zones for cooking pans in different shapes and sizes is the best option. This can save space and is useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills as additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available in a range of costs, from as little as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model, it shouldn't cost much too, since there are fantastic options that are made by own brand. Be aware that both ceramic and induction hobs require a particular supply that is plugged in with the correct cables and breakers to work so you'll need it installed by a certified electrician.