The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts for their versatility and precise control of flames. However, electric hobs can offer superior energy efficiency and are also easier to keep clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features like power boosts and a timer.
1. Hobs Induction
Induction hobs are a modern and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone as gas hobs do, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils that are below the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the touch and is more secure to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil water faster than kettles and require less energy. They're now a common kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh test kitchen, and we are in love with this elegant, premium model from AEG which boasts four cooking zones with individually controlled functions and an easy-to-use minute minder. It is smooth and is easy to clean and is easy to use using the touch control panels, however one minor gripe (which is common to all induction hobs) is that the heat distribution can be patchy; however it is only noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive environmental credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating with a low power consumption of 750W for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets you move your pans within the four zones and adjust the power levels in accordance with the size of your saucepans or pots. Meanwhile, the 'Power booster" function boosts the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function, as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating which means you do not need to worry about burning food items.
This is an induction cooktop that is priced at a bargain that can be hardwired to a worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified by an arrow, cross or arrow to indicate the coil's centre. It also has a touch-control panel. It comes with an enormous 'Flux Zone' that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front and middle zones. This is a great choice for cooking with a variety pans, all different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated, simmered at the same while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) remain the best choice to cook in your kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to generate high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner at a glance. This is very helpful to ensure security. With an electric hob, it's harder to accidentally turn on a burner or forget that it was on.
Most models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes and spills. You'll need to remain careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than induction counterparts since they are able to heat faster and more evenly, which reduces the cost of electricity. This is particularly the case with vented hobs that combine two appliances and eliminate the need for an grill. This will save space in your kitchen, as well as creating an elegant design that can blend into any style of interior.
Because of their effectiveness and convenience, many homeowners opt for gas hobs that are freestanding instead of built-in models. They are simpler to set up and provide more flexibility in the event that you want to create a a minimalistic kitchen look.
Another benefit of opting for an independent model is the possibility of connecting it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG) which is an alternative energy source for you're looking for a more sustainable option. But, you'll need be able to locate a suitable LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. These models require a gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're looking for a sleek and energy-efficient option an induction cooker is the best way to go. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are safer (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 purchase kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
For those who don't want to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs offer a good alternative. These stylish and sleek hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic surface with heating elements concealed beneath that make them more attractive than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean as there's no need to do tricky cleaning. Plus, they get hot faster than solid plate hobs and are more responsive to your cooking needs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when is energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy consumption this might not be the right choice for you.
Solid plate hobs, which are a affordable option, with their simple and reliable design, are perfect for cooking at home. They're easy to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, so they're not the ideal choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also emit a lot of residual heat, making them not as efficient in energy use as the other options on this list.
We suggest that you search for reviews on the websites of retailers in the event that you are thinking about a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with an honest view into how it works, but it will aid you in finding 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 finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are the preferred option for cooks due to their instant heat and easy control, electric models offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. oven and hob and induction stoves offer sophisticated cooking functions, such as power increase settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has a streamlined design with control buttons that are touch-sensitive. Avoid hobs with dials or buttons that protrude. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you choose an even surface that doesn't chip or scratch. For safety, choose models with child lock as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs to help prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you might prefer a digital display which lets you control your hob remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel stove that has induction and gas burners. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times so that food is ready when you need it. This reduces the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less flavorful.
To make cooking more convenient for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate cooking zones for pans in different shapes and sizes is the best option. This can save on space and is ideal when cooking with large rectangular cooking dishes, like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to give you additional cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and more expensive models that cost upwards of PS1,000. hob and oven -zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. And if you want an elegant glass model it shouldn't break the bank also, as there are excellent own-brand options. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a special supply with the right cables and breakers in order to function, which means you will need to have it installed by an electrician.