This History Behind Hobs Is One That Will Haunt You Forever!
What is a Hob?
A hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern ones are typically constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are less expensive than gas ones, however they require electricity. Induction hobs can be used with almost any kind of cookware. However, they require compatible pans which emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to the Old English word "hol" and means hole, pit, or dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod", which means a crag, hill, or a crag.
Folklore says that hobs are faery spirit who help with household chores. They are usually benevolent but can become a nuisance if offended. One example of a hob was the hobthrush found in Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
Another common use of the term is to refer to a specific type of cooking device. A hob is an iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob is typically flat and has a variety of cooking elements, such as rings. In certain instances, the hob can be replaced with flat stones to permit it to serve as a target for quoits.
The earliest attested uses of the term hob go to the 16th century. It was likely acquired at the same time as the female form, hobgoblin. It originates from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive when provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example, was able bring a cart up its roof. This caused a huge inconvenience to the farmer. They can also be difficult to work with because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly found in the UK they can also be used in other countries. They are available in a variety of types, like gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled by the click of an electronic button, and can be used alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are also connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These kinds of features are attracting buyers to buy these devices. Furthermore, some models come with advanced security features, like a child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their rapid heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to touch and only gets hot when it comes into contact with compatible cookware. This reduces the chance for burns. Furthermore the power is shut off immediately when the cookware is removed from the cooking zone. best oven are especially useful in the home where guests and children may be present in the kitchen.
In addition, induction hobs 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 the 'Stop and Go' function that instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for convenience when you must leave the kitchen. Certain models come with bridge functions that join two induction zones to create one large zone controlled by a single control. This gives you more flexibility. The possibility of connecting multiple cooking zones allows you to cook with larger or odd-sized pots and pans.
Simple and intuitive controls are offered to adjust the power settings of a stove. They are simple to read and operate. Hobs can also be equipped with timers, presets to handle common cooking tasks, automatic shut-offs as well as a Booster feature that only uses maximum power for the needed time, and a gentle "bottom heat" to cut down on simmer time and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks and crannies that can collect dirt in time, as do conventional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add sophistication and style to modern kitchens. They feature sleek, contemporary lines to complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Hobs with automatic switch-off functions have sensors that scan the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat or explosive substances, then automatically cutting off the gas supply to avoid burns and injuries. This feature is especially important for gas hobs, as it mitigates the risk of accidents occurring during cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to determine when cookware isn't in contact with it. This helps stop electric shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs to choose from. It is crucial to choose the right one for your kitchen. Some common features include: heat control, energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of stove you select will impact your budget - both in the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs make use of natural gas to create an open flame that warms your pots and pans. They are a preferred choice for many home cooks due to their instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used with a large variety of cooking appliances. However gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, like cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more prone to flare-ups that happen accidentally, so you need to be aware of the open flame and ensure the stove is adequately secured with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements that are placed beneath the glass or ceramic surface to heat your cookware. They are affordable and offer excellent heat distribution for flat-based products. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other types of hobs and are difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plate hobs, but have filament bulbs that heat the surface. They are more efficient in energy use however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some offering touchscreen controls, while others have physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs are a contemporary alternative to traditional stovetops employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, which results in quicker heating and more evenly heat distribution. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners that are exposed, making them easier to clean. However, they are not as efficient in simmering and may not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you don't take the proper precautions. Inadequately cleaned pans and unsupervised cleaning can cause fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or anyone else. That's why Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are among of the main causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can damage or even shatter cookware, which can create a fire risk. Fortunately, many hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems also make use of power modulation to ensure the output of heat is consistent and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Induction hobs are considered safe for use, even though some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs aren't as powerful and strong as those produced by mobile phone, and their radiation is non-ionising.
Induction hobs work only with certain types of cookware. It is important to make sure that your saucepans and pots are ready for induction before you use them. One way to test this is to place a magnet near the base of the pan. If the pan stays, it is compatible with an induction cooker. The wrong type of cookware could result in the hob becoming damaged and causing an accident.
It is also important to ensure that children and other people stay away from the cooking area when it is in use, since the surface can become extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves when you touch metal pan handles because they can be very hot. It is essential to shut off your stove as soon as you finish use, as it may remain hot for some time. Follow the instructions of the fire service and dial 999 as quickly as you can if there is a fire.