Watch Out: How Best Hobs Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It
Watch Out: How Best Hobs Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It
Blog Article
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The best hobs will be robust, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precision flame control. Electric models are more energy efficient and easier to clean. You can accelerate the cooking process with features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space like gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to warm up the copper coils below your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact which makes them more secure to use and easier to clean. They boil water faster than a kettle and require less energy. The AEG premium model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones, each with its distinct functions, as well as an hour timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are simple to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a frequent complaint for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive eco credentials. It has an A+ energy rating and a low power consumption of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you to move your pans between the four zones, and adjust the power levels to suit the pots or pans you use. Additionally, the "Power boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burnt food.
This is a budget-friendly induction hob that is easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified by an arrow or cross to indicate which side of the coil is beneath, while there's an easy-to-use control panel. It has a large "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pots and pans effortlessly, and it's pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is an excellent option when cooking with a variety of pans of different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated, simmered at the same time, and then kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) are the best choice for cooking in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats, and pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to create high levels of heat quickly and precisely, making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The flame's visual indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is useful for security reasons. It's much more difficult to forget to leave a burner on, or to switch it off by accident as it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface that makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts as they heat up faster and more evenly, thus reducing electricity costs. This is particularly true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for vent hoods. This will save space in your kitchen, as well as resulting in an elegant and modern design that will blend into any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs that are freestanding over built-in models because of their efficiency and ease-of-use. They're simpler to install and offer more flexibility when you want to create a minimalist look for your kitchen.
Another benefit of going for freestanding models is the ability to connect it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which can be an alternative energy source for you're looking for a more sustainable option. But, you'll need be able to find a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this becomes an option for you. Additionally, these models will require gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction here hobs are the best option for those who want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly and the flat ceramic surface of the hob stays cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are less dangerous (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than their counterparts made of electrical or gas. Induction hobs can be expensive and you will need to invest in cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
For those who don't want to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs are a great middle ground. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top and hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs as they don't require a lengthy scouring. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when comes to energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy usage this may not be the best option for you.
Solid plate hobs, a affordable option, with their simple and sturdy design, are perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to get hot, making them a good option for those who do not need a powerful cooktop. However, they may take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs also emit lots of heat, making them not as energy-efficient as the other choices on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend looking for one that has been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only provide you with an honest assessment of the performance of the model, but will also help you find the one that is suitable for your home. Customers have rated this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's made of sturdy stainless steel. The black controls go well with other kitchen appliances, creating a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks due to their rapid heating and easy to control, electric hobs have the advantage of being more energy-efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a great option for busy households.
Choose an electric hob with a a streamlined design with touchscreen controls. Avoid those with dials or buttons that protrude. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth 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 avoid accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you might opt for an electronic display that lets you control your stove remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.
For maximum flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob with gas and induction burners. FUJIOH's FH-IC7020 hybrid hob includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function, which lets you set specific cooking times for dishes so they're ready when you need them - reducing the risk of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
Additionally, for greater convenience, you may need a model that permits you to combine two cooking zones into one larger zone for pans of different sizes and shapes. This can help save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for extra cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at different prices, from as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a major brand should cost less than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model it won't cost a fortune either as there are some top options from own brands. Remember that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the right cables and breakers in order to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.