The Best Hobs
Hobs can be found in various sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs because of their precise flame control and versatility. However, electric hobs can offer superior energy efficiency and are more easy to keep clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer that let you increase the heat quickly in order to speed up cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs provide a contemporary, efficient alternative to the traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space like gas hobs they utilize magnetic technology to warm up the copper coils below your pans. The cooktop is cool to the touch which makes it more secure to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It features four cooking zones, each with its own functions and an hour minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are simple to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common complaint with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a warranty of five years and impressive environmental credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with a low power usage of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows the pans to be moved around within the four zones and alter the power levels to fit your pans or pots and the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% for rapid boiling. The auto-shutoff feature and the 'fryingSensor' feature, which ensures that your pan is not overheated are also helpful features.
This is a affordable induction cooker that can be easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified by an arrow or cross to show which side of the coil is beneath, while there's an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It has a wide "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease, and it's pre-programmed to have set power levels in the front, middle and rear zones. This is great if you often cook with different sizes or shaped pans that need to be brought up to boiling point, then simmered and kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
A gas hob (or gas cooktop if you're American) still reigns supreme in kitchen cooking. They are the best choice for boiling water, simmering soups and sauces as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to generate high heat levels quickly and precisely, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The flame's visual indicator makes it easy to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is helpful for safety reasons. It's much more difficult to forget about leaving a burner on, or to switch it off accidentally, than it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. However, it appears that there's no material that can keep out spills and splashes completely, which is why you'll need to be on top of cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy-efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing electricity costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for the grill. This will save space in your kitchen, as well as creating a sleeker design that will blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models because of their efficiency and ease-of-use. They are easier to install and provide more flexibility if you're looking to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide an alternative energy source. This is a great option for those who you are looking to go green. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you think about this alternative. These models require a gas supply as well as a ventilation system, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are the ideal choice if you're looking for an energy-efficient, sleek appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly and the flat glass-ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burning!) and more efficient, as they consume less power than their electric or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to invest in cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good option for those who do not wish to invest in technology of induction. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth glass-ceramic top that conceals heating elements. They're more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs since they don't require hard scrubbing. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they are behind induction hobs when it regards energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy usage this may not be the right choice for you.
Finally, solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for cooking in the everyday. They are quick to get hot, making them a great choice for those who do not require a powerful cooktop. However, they may take ages to cool down. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other options.
We recommend that you look for reviews on the websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with an accurate view of the quality of the product however, it will also aid you in locating the right one for your home. For instance this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is finished with durable stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs can be a favorite choice for many chefs due to their quick heating and ease of control, they're also a popular choice because they provide instant heating. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs that offer advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent choice for busy households.
Choose an electric hob with a an elegant design and has 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 a model with child locks with hot indicators, as well as residual heat shut-offs to help prevent accidents. If best ovens and hobs uk Ovens And Hobs have a smart-connected home, you might want to choose a digital display which lets you control your hob remotely and also receive notifications from your smartphone.
Look into a dual-fuel stove that has gas and induction burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FUJIOH FH-IC7020 hybrid cooktop has both, with intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer function lets you to set specific cooking times to ensure that your food is ready at the time you require it. This helps reduce the risk of overcooking, and makes your food less delicious.
Lastly, for added convenience, you might want an appliance that allows you to join two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of different sizes and shapes. This will save space and be useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels, such as roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option of adding induction plates or teppanyaki grills as additional cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs starting at PS100 and higher-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a reputable brand should cost less than PS200. If you're looking for a stylish glass model, it shouldn't cost much also, as there are top options from own brands. Be aware that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll need to get it installed by a certified electrician.