An Best Hobs Success Story You'll Never Believe
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The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of materials and sizes. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precise control of flames. Electric models are more efficient and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features like power boosts and a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a modern efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as do gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to warm the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop remains cool to touch which makes it safer to use and simpler for cleaning. They also boil water quicker than traditional kettles and consume less energy. They're now a common kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen, and we love this elegant, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions and an easy-to-use minute reminder. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is simple to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, but one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be patchy; however it is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive green ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low power consumption of 700w for each cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to match your pans or pots and the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' that ensures that your pan is not overheated, are also useful features.
This is a budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones can be controlled independently and are identified by a ring or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There is also a touch-control panel. It comes with a large 'Flux Zone' that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed with preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is ideal if you frequently cook with multiple different sized or shaped pans that need to be brought to the boiling point, then simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) remain the best choice for cooking in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water as well as simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately create high heat levels making them ideal for boiling and searing.
Their visual flame indication also allows you to see the status of each burner in a glance, which is helpful for safety reasons. It's much harder to forget to leave a burner on, or to switch it on by accident as it is with an electric hob.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them easier to clean than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's no material that could stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be vigilant about cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented stoves, which combine the two appliances in one unit and eliminate the requirement for a vent hood. This will save the space in your kitchen as well as resulting in an elegant and modern design that will blend in ovensandhobs.uk with any style of interior.
As a result of their effectiveness and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding rather than built-in versions. They are more straightforward to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
Another advantage of choosing an independent model is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can look into this alternative. These models require gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the best option for those who want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. They are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) and more efficient as they use less electricity than electric or gas counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll need to buy induction-compatible cookware.
Ceramic hobs are a great alternative for those who don't need to invest in induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements concealed beneath, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean since there's no need for a difficult scouring. They also get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when is energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy use this may not be the best option for you.
Solid plate hobs, which are a budget option with their simple and durable design, are ideal for cooking at home. They're quick to get hot and ideal for those who don't need a powerful cooktop, however they can be slow to cool down, so they're not the best choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also give off a lot of residual heat, making them not as efficient in energy use as the other options on this list.
We recommend looking for reviews on the websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you a true insight into the performance of the product however, it will also aid you in locating one that is right for your home. For instance this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished with durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other kitchen appliances, giving it a minimal and contemporary appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks thanks to their instant heat and easy control, electric models have the advantage of being more energy efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
Choose an electric hob with a sleek design and touch controls. Avoid those with buttons or dials that are protruding. This makes them easier to clean, particularly when you select an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. Make sure you choose a model that comes with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for an electronic display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, so you can control your hob with ease.
To maximize flexibility, think about a dual fuel stove that has gas burners and induction. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and sturdy cast iron pan supports that allow traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature that allows you to set cooking times for dishes so they are ready when needed - reducing the risk of overcooking and making food less delicious.
For additional convenience, a model with two separate cooking zones for pans in different shapes and sizes could be the best option. This can save space and can be beneficial if you cook with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to offer additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available in a range of costs, from as little as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should cost no more than PS200. If you prefer glass models there are plenty of great options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the correct cables and breakers in order to function, which means you'll need it installed by an electrician.