A Guide to Ovens and Hobs
Ovens and hobs add an elegant, modern look to any kitchen, and can be seamlessly integrated into kitchen worktops and units. Explore our complete range of ovens and hobs now.
Electric hobs are heated by different cooking rings, which can have anywhere between four and six power levels. It can take some time to get them heated up and cool down.
Hobs of different types
The stove top, kitchen hob or range cooker (the latter being the complete cooking appliance that you roast and bake food in) is a crucial part of every home. It is used to cook a variety of methods, and it's important to choose the right hob for your needs. If you're a master chef who favours precision or a busy family cook seeking speed, there's a hob that will meet your needs.
Electric ceramic and induction stoves are completely flat and frameless which adds to the sleek look of any kitchen. Each of the four or five zones can be controlled by a separate dial. This allows you the choice of boiling potatoes on one ring while sauteing sausages on another perfect for busy families. They also are quick to heat up and have a an even surface that makes them easy to clean. They can be more costly than gas hobs and may take longer to heat and cool down.
Gas hobs are a favorite among chefs due to their instant heat and provide precise control. Gas hobs are also secure because they have built-in safety mechanisms for fire failures that will shut off the gas supply in the event of leaks. However, they can be less efficient than electric or induction hobs and are more difficult to clean because of the burners and pan supports.
Plate hobs are the most popular type of hob and have been around for decades. They feature a flat surface with gas or electric rings that get heated when you turn the dial. They are affordable, but not the best choice for cookware made of cast iron as they don't evenly distribute heat over the entire surface.
Induction hobs can heat your pan directly rather than heating up the surface of the hob as with traditional hobs. They are safer since there is no open flame. They're also easy to clean. They are also more expensive and take longer to heat and cool than electric or gas hobs.
Gas hobs
Gas hobs are a popular choice among home cooks because of their speedy heating capabilities and easy control. You will typically find models that offer between two and six burners. Some have a wok burner specifically designed for stir-frying cooking. Some hobs come with a visual indicator that tells you whether the burner is on or not.
They heat food quicker than induction or electric models, making them ideal for kitchens that are busy. They can be cheaper to run than electric hobs, if you utilize electricity generated by renewable energy sources.
You can pick between built-in or freestanding gas hobs. The former are the better choice if you're planning to remodel your kitchen as you can easily relocate them later. They aren't easy to install and could require you to rip out your finished carpentry. This isn't the best choice for every home.
They have a flat and smooth surface, which makes them easier to clean. Trims made of stainless steel are frequently employed, and can be matched to many kitchen designs. Certain models come with touchscreen controls and some have a an energy boost feature that boosts the power of the burner by 50%..
Certain gas hobs are equipped with a safety system that automatically shuts off the gas supply when the flame is out. This way, you don't have to worry about accidentally igniting an fire. Gas hobs are less expensive to run than electric ones, and allow for precise temperature control.
It's worth mentioning that gas hobs emit carbon dioxide when they burn, which could be a problem for environmentally conscious consumers. Luckily, there are now models that don't produce any CO2 while they're being used. These gas hobs that are zero-emission or eco-friendly gas stoves' come with all the features of a conventional gas stove but emits zero CO2.
Electric hobs
A common option for kitchens of every style electric hobs provide numerous advantages over other types of cooker. First, they tend to heat up and cool down faster than gas hobs, which means less heat remains behind after the cookware is taken off. They also cook more consistently and are less prone to hot spots than some gas models. Electric models are also easier to maintain and less expensive to operate than gas models.
Most commonly found in modern kitchens ceramic or glass electric hobs have an elegant and fashionable appearance that's easy to clean and safe to contact. They're also a good option for families with children as their flat surface is less likely to be damaged by heavy pans. They are also relatively inexpensive to run and are able to be repaired in the event of damage.
As opposed to traditional plate hobs which use coils to generate heat which is then transferred to the cookware, ceramic hobs employ an induction system to directly heat the pan. They are able to heat and cool faster and are suitable for any cookware. They're often pricier than electric plate hobs but they'll reduce your energy costs over the long term due to their efficiency and the way they convert nearly all electrical energy into usable heat.
Despite their simple design, it is important to maintain your glass or ceramic hob to prevent any issues. Cleaning the cooktop using non-abrasive cleaning products is recommended, as is making sure to replace any faulty heating controls and cleaning out burner caps or grates regularly. Be on the lookout for gas smells, as they could indicate an issue with gas lines or leaks. If you suspect this, it's advisable to seek out a professional in gas to seek assistance. Make sure that the stove has cooled completely before cleaning to prevent any serious damage. This will also help prevent accidental fires or spills!
Induction hobs
A modern alternative to traditional gas and electric hobs, induction cookers make use of a magnetic field to heat the pan itself instead of the cooktop itself. They are more efficient than other stoves and can help you save energy over the course of time. They are also safer to use as the cooktop surface remains cool to the touch and many have safety features like automatic shut-offs to prevent accidents.
Induction hobs are usually ceramic or glass that have an alternating current that creates a magnetic field to heat. A pan that is induction-compatible must be flat on the bottom and a steel or iron core, and the magnetic field is activated when the pan is placed on the cooking zone. The majority of hobs come with a bridging zone that can connect two zones to accommodate larger pans.
Induction hobs are known for efficiency. Many have reported reductions in their energy usage when they switch to one. They are also considered to be safer as the cooktop's surface remains cool to the surface, reducing the chance of burns, and only heating the pan and its contents. This makes them safer for children than electric or gas stoves which can become extremely hot and pose a burn risk.
Most induction hobs have different control options. The simplest is an easy touch bar/power bar at the top of the hob. Others have an all-inclusive display that displays all options and allows you to change power levels and set timers. Hobs induction with more advanced technology have many copper coils of varying sizes that are grouped tightly together under the cooktop. The magnet beneath each coil senses the time when the pan is positioned. The coil is activated when it is appropriate for the pan size and shape.
All of our hobs and ovens are available as freestanding models or are seamlessly integrated into kitchen units and worktop for an elegant, seamless appearance. Our entire range of products ranges from sleek black and stainless-steel finishes to on-trend copper and ceramic. Take a look at our other appliances, including dishwashers refrigerator freezers and washing machines that will make your kitchen run smoothly.