You've Forgotten Best Hobs: 10 Reasons Why You No Longer Need It
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precise flame control. However, electric models can provide superior energy efficiency and are more easy to clean. Look for features like power boost and timer that let you increase the heat quickly to accelerate cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
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 utilize magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to touch and is therefore safer to use and easier to clean. They can boil water faster than kettles and use less power. They are now a staple appliance in the HelloFresh's test kitchen, and we love this elegant, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an easy-to-use minute minder. It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean and is simple to operate with the touch control panels. However, one minor issue (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven; however, this is only really noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials; it has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low power consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows you to move your pans around within the four zones and adjust the power levels to fit the pans or pots you use, while the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% to ensure speedy boiling. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' that helps to prevent overheating of your pan are other useful features.
This is a great budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily hardwired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified by the use of a cross or ring to show which side of the coil lies beneath and there's a simple touch-control panel. It has a large 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pans and pots effortlessly and is pre-programmed so that you have set power levels in the front, middle and rear zones. This is a great choice for cooking with a variety of pans, all different sizes and shapes that need to be heated up, simmered at the same while being kept warm.
2. why not try here (or gas cooktop if you're American) remains the most popular choice when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to produce high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them ideal for searing and boiling.
Their visual flame indication also makes it easy to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is helpful for security reasons. It's a lot harder to forget about leaving the burner on, or to switch it off by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that will protect the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to be cautious when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy-efficient than their induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing the cost of electricity. This is particularly true for vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the need for vent hoods. This can help save the space in your kitchen as well as creating a sleeker 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 are less difficult to install and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve minimalist kitchen designs.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is an excellent option if you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. However, you'll need find the right LPG boiler and stove before this is an option for you. These models require gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the ideal option if you want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the glass-ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than gas or electrical counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you will need to purchase kitchen appliances that are 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 are made of a smooth glass top and hidden heating elements. They are more visually pleasing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs, because they don't need lengthy scouring. They also heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they may not be an ideal choice if you are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs are a good budget option, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for everyday cooking. They are quick to heat up, making them a good option for those who do not require a large cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other alternatives.
We recommend looking for reviews on retailer websites if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with a clear view into the performance of the appliance and how it's used, but it can also help you to find the right model 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 are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it a a modern and minimal look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular option for cooks due to their quick heat and easy control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have sophisticated cooking functions, such as power up settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob, look for one that's streamlined with touch controls and without dials or buttons hanging out. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you choose a flat surface that won't scratch or chip. For security, opt for models with child lock, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to prevent accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can control your hob easily.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel hob that includes induction and gas burners. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set cooking times to ensure that food is ready at the time you require it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less delicious.
Lastly, for added convenience, you might want a model that allows you to merge two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can help save space and can be beneficial if you cook with large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide extra cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs that start at PS100 and more expensive models that cost upwards of PS1,000. However, a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a reputable brand should still cost you no more than PS200. If you prefer a glass model, there are many excellent options available from manufacturers who manufacture their own brands. But, keep in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a particular supply that is plugged in with the correct cables and breakers to work so you'll need to get it installed by a certified electrician.