Introduction To The Intermediate Guide Towards Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy and stylish, as well as easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs because of their precise flame control and versatility. But, electric models offer superior energy efficiency and are easier to clean. Look for features like a timer and power boost which allow you to boost the heat quickly to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they use magnet technology to heat the copper coils beneath the pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the touch which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than a traditional kettle and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with its distinct functions, as well as the minute timer. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is easy to use using the touch control panels, however one small issue (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be patchy; however this is only really noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating with a low power usage of 750W for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets the pans to be moved around in the four zones and adjust their power levels to suit your pans or pots as well as the 'PowerBoost function boosts the output by 50% for rapid boiling. The auto-shutoff function as well as the 'fryingSensor' feature, which helps to prevent overheating of your pan are other useful features.
This is a fantastic budget-friendly induction hob that is easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are marked with an arrow, cross or arrow to indicate the coil's centre. It also has an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease, and it's pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front and back zones. This is great if you often cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that need to be brought up to boiling point, simmered and then kept warm at the same time.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop in the case of American) still reigns supreme in kitchen cooking. They are the best for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them as well as pan-frying. Their popularity stems from their ability to produce high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance. This is extremely useful to ensure safety. With an electric hob, it's harder to switch off an appliance or forget it was on.
A majority of models are designed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, saving on energy costs. hobs oven is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for the hood. This can help save the space in your kitchen as well as resulting in an elegant design that can be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. They're more straightforward to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option if you want to go green. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you think about this option. These models require a gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
If you're seeking an energy-efficient and sleek option an induction cooker is the best option to choose. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly, while the flat ceramic surface of the hob remains cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they use less power than their gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to buy cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a great option for those who don't need to invest in technology of induction. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements that are hidden beneath which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean, as there's no need to do difficult scrubbing. Plus, they get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. They don't have the same efficiency as induction hobs, which means they might not be an ideal choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Finally, hobs and ovens are a good budget option, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other alternatives.
We recommend that you look for reviews on retailer websites if you are considering a solid-plate hob. Not only will this give you an honest insight into how it performs, but it will aid you in finding a model that's right for your home. For instance this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is made of durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. Although gas hobs might be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their quick heating and control, they're also a popular choice because they are quick to warmth. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer advanced cooking features like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
Look for an electric hob that has a streamlined design with control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that protrude. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you select an even surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, you might opt for an electronic display that allows you to manage your hob from afar and receive notifications on your smartphone.
Look into a dual-fuel stove that comes with gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports to accommodate traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature, which lets you set specific cooking times for dishes so they are ready when needed and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
For added convenience, a model with two separate cooking zones for pans in different shapes and sizes is the best option. This can save space and be useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or grills to give you additional cooking options.
Gas hobs can be found in a range of prices, ranging from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should still cost you no more than PS200. If you prefer a glass model there are plenty of great options from own-brand manufacturers. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a specific supply with the correct cables and breakers to work, so you will need to have it installed by an electrician.