15 Things You're Not Sure Of About Hobs
15 Things You're Not Sure Of About Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
A hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they use electricity. Induction hobs can be used with almost any kind of cookware. However, they require compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or a dent. The name has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which is a reference to a crag or hill.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are usually benevolent but they can be a nuisance if they are offended. One such hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
Another common use of the term is to refer to a specific type of cooking equipment. A hob is an iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob is usually flat and has a variety of cooking elements, including rings. In some cases the hob could be replaced by an elongated stone that allows it to function as a target for quoits.
The first documented use of the term "hob" dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. It was likely acquired in the same time frame as the feminine form, hobgoblin, which originates from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were well-known fairytales and domestic spirits.
Hobs are known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive if provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to put carts on its roof, which was an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They can also be difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly found in the UK however, they can be found in other countries, too. They come in a variety of forms, such as electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled with the push of a button, and they can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth which makes them more convenient to use. These kinds of features are drawing buyers to buy these devices. Furthermore, some models come with advanced safety features, for instance a child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and only heats up when in contact with cookware that is compatible. This minimizes the risk of burning. Additionally the power is shut off immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking area. These safety features are especially useful in the home where guests and children may be present in the kitchen.
In addition, induction hobs consume less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce the energy bills of households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models feature the 'Stop and Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting to make it easier when you have to leave the kitchen. Others feature the bridge function that joins two cooking zones using induction into a single zone that is controlled by a single control for greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook using larger or unusual-sized pans and pots.
Simple, intuitive controls are available to adjust the power settings of a hob. They are easy to read and use. click here Many also offer timers, pre-sets for typical cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that makes use of the maximum power for the necessary amount of time and an 'underside heat' that is gentle to reduce simmering times and save energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic-like surface on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also does not have the nooks and crannies that can collect dirt over time, like traditional gas stoves. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring style and sophistication to modern kitchens with sleek, contemporary designs that match other appliances and decor.
Sensors are employed in hobs with automatic shut-off features. They scan the surface of the hob for indications of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically cut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it decreases the chance of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to know when cookware isn't in contact with it. This helps protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs available. It is crucial to choose the right one for your kitchen. Some features are: heat control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob you choose will also impact your budget, both the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs utilize natural gas to create an open flame that warms your pots and pans. They are a preferred choice for many cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. Furthermore, they are not affected by power interruptions and work with various cooking equipment. Gas hobs are more expensive to operate and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more vulnerable to flare-ups due to accident and fires, so it is important to be aware of the flame's openness and ensure the stove is adequately secured with grills that are safe.
Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements under a ceramic or glass surface to heat your cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based products. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, but they feature a filament bulb which creates heat on the surface. They are more energy efficient, but still take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some offering touch-based controls while others have physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops, making use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in quicker heating and an evenly distributed heat. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners that are exposed making them easier to clean. They're not as effective in the process of simmering, and may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you don't take the necessary precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not properly cleaning them can cause fires which could ruin your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. That's why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the most common causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which could present a fire hazard. Most hobs have safety systems that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems also make use of power modulation to ensure that the heat output is consistent and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components and the surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs however, the technology is safe to use. These EMFs aren't as powerful and strong like those generated by mobile phones, and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types of cookware, so it's important to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready prior to making use of them. A simple method to check this is to put a magnet near the base of the pan. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong type of cookware could damage your hob or cause a fire.
It is also essential to ensure that children and other people stay away from the hob while it's in use, as the surface may become extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves when touching metal pan handles as they can also be very hot. It is important to shut off your stove as soon as you finish use, since it could remain hot for a while. If a fire occurs, follow the fire service advice - to call 999 and leave the premises as quickly as possible.