Five Things You Didn't Know About Hobs
What is a Hob?
The hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern ones are typically made of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are more affordable than gas ones, but they use electricity. Induction hobs can be used with almost any kind of cookware. However, they need compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which means pit, hole or a dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod", which means the word "crag" or hill or a crag.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits who perform household chores. They are generally benevolent, but they can also be a nuisance if offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It could cure whooping-cough.
Another common usage of the term is to refer to a specific type of cooking equipment. A hob is a metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of a hob is typically flat and features several cooking elements, including rings. In certain instances the hob may be replaced by a flat stone to allow it to function as a quoits target.
The first documented uses of the term hob date back to the early 16th century. It is likely that it was acquired during the same timeframe as the feminine form, hobgoblin, which is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were well-known fairytales and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent appearance hobs are known to play games with people. They can also be very destructive when provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry carts on its roof, which was a serious inconvenience for the farmer. Additionally they can be difficult to work with because of their speed and strength.
While hobs are mostly used in the UK however, they can be used in other countries as well. They are available in many varieties, including gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled by the press of one button, and can be used alongside other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them more convenient to use. These features are appealing to consumers. Certain models also come with advanced safety features, such as a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their speedy heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surface remains cool to touch and only is heated when in contact with cookware compatible. This minimizes the risk of burning. The power is shut off instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking area. These safety features are particularly beneficial in homes, where children and guests may be present in the kitchen.
In addition, induction stoves require less gas than traditional stoves, which reduces household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models feature a 'Stop & Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for convenience when you must leave the kitchen. Others feature bridge functions that connects two induction cooking zones to create a large zone that is controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook using larger or smaller pans and pots.
The power settings of a hob can be adjusted using simple and intuitive controls that are simple to operate and read. Some also have timers, pre-sets to typical cooking functions, automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' feature that draws maximum power only for the required amount of time and a gentle 'bottom heat' to cut down on simmering times and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic surface on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also does not have the nooks and crannies which can accumulate dirt in time, as do traditional gas stoves. oven and hob are designed to add elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with sleek, modern lines that blend with other appliances and décor.
Sensors are used in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off features. They monitor the surface of the hob for signs of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically cut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs because it reduces the risk of accidents when cooking. ovens and hobs use sensors to determine when cookware isn't in contact with the hob and prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs available. It's important to choose the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some common features include: heat control energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of stove you select will also impact on your budget, both the initial cost and ongoing costs.
Gas hobs produce an open flame with natural gas. They heat pots and pans. They are a favorite choice for many home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power outages and work well with a variety of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs can also be more prone than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the flame, and make sure the stove is properly protected by grills with safety.
Plate hobs, a different option for kitchens employs electric elements beneath the ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based products. They are more difficult to cool and heat than other hobs, and are difficult for cleaning.
Halogen hobs are like electric plate hobs, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. This makes them more energy efficient than traditional electric hobs but they are still not as quick to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some are equipped with touchscreen controls while others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs are a contemporary alternative to traditional stovetops making use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating and a more uniform distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have fewer exposed burners and grates which makes them easier to clean. However, they aren't as efficient in simmering and may not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you don't take the proper precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not cleaning them properly can result in fires that harm your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be a major cause of kitchen fires.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to break or shatter, which could pose the risk of fire. Most hobs have safety systems that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems utilize power modulation to ensure that heat output remains constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. The EMFs produced by these devices aren't as strong and powerful like those generated by mobile phone and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types cookware. It is important to make sure that your cookware and pots are induction ready before you begin using them. By placing a magnet on the pan's base is a quick method to test. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Making the wrong choice of cookware could lead to the hob becoming damaged and causing an accident.
Be sure to keep children and other guests away from the hob while it is in use. The surface may become extremely hot. It is also recommended to use oven gloves when touching metal pan handles since they are extremely hot. It is essential to shut off the stove immediately after use, as it can remain hot for a while. If you notice a fire and you are in danger, follow the fire services instructions - call 999 and leave the premises as soon as you can.