Searching For Inspiration? Try Looking Up Hobs
Searching For Inspiration? Try Looking Up Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is an essential part of every kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass that is shatterproof and heatproof. They also feature flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. They run on electricity, but are less expensive than gas hobs. They also work with almost all cookware brands, but induction hobs 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 related to the Old English word "hol" and means hole, pit or a dent. The name has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which refers to a crag or a hill.
Folklore suggests hobs are faery spirits who help with household chores. They are usually kind, but can become an issue if they are upset. One of them was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
Another popular use of the word is to refer to a kind of cooking equipment. A hob is a metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob is usually flat and has a variety of cooking elements, like rings. In some cases the hob is replaced by an elongated rock which can serve as a goal for quoits.
The first recorded use of the term "hob" dates back to the early sixteenth century. It was likely taken over as the female version hobgoblin. It is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are famous for their games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive if provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example was able to place a cart on its roof. This was a huge inconvenience to the farmer. Additionally they can be a hassle to work with due their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mainly used in the UK they are also used in other countries. They come in a variety of types, like gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled by the press of one button, and can be utilized in conjunction with other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These features are attracting buyers. Furthermore, some models come with advanced safety features, such as the child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their speedy heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and are heated only when they come into contact with compatible cookware, which minimizes the risk of burns. Furthermore the power is turned off immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking area. These safety features are especially useful in the home, where children and guests may be present in the kitchen.
In addition, induction hobs consume less gas than traditional stoves, which reduces household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models come with a "Stop and go" function that instantly reduces the cooking zones to their lowest setting when you need to leave the kitchen. Some models have bridge functions that joins two induction cooking zones into a single zone managed by a single controller for greater flexibility. You can also use larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones that have the capability of connecting multiple zones.
Simple easy-to-use controls are available to alter the setting of the power of a hob. They are simple to read and operate. Many offer timers, presets for the most common cooking functions, an automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' function that makes use of the maximum power only for the required amount of time, and an 'underside heat' that is gentle to reduce simmering times and conserve energy.
Furthermore, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electronic hob is easy to clean and doesn't contain the nooks and crannies of gas burners that are conventional, which can accumulate dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring design and elegance to the modern kitchen, with sleek, contemporary designs that match other appliances and decor.
Sensors are used in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions. They scan the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then cut off to avoid injury and fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs, as it helps reduce the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs utilize sensors to know the cookware isn't touching it. This will prevent electric shocks.
Types
There are many different kinds of hobs that are available, so it's important to think about which one is right for your kitchen. Some features include heating control energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob that you select will affect your budget, both the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs produce an open flame by using natural gas. This heats pots and pans. They are a popular choice for many home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a large range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more expensive to operate and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs can also be more prone to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the open flame and ensure that the stove is adequately secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, a different option for kitchens make use of electric elements on the ceramic or tempered ovens hobs glass surface to heat cookware. These hobs are economical and offer excellent heat distribution for flat-based products. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other types of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, however they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more efficient in energy use however they require more time to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some feature touch-based controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating as well as a more evenly distributed heat. Additionally, induction hobs are easier to clean than other kinds of hobs because they don't have grates or burners that are exposed. However, they aren't as efficient in simmering and might not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you do not make the necessary precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not cleaning them properly can lead to fires that could damage 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 main causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to be damaged or shatter, posing an fire risk. Fortunately, the majority of hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems also make use of power modulation to ensure that the heat output is consistent and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Induction hobs are deemed safe to use, even though some people worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs aren't as strong and powerful as those generated by mobile phones and their radiation is non-ionising.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types of cookware, so it's important to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. Holding a magnet close to the base of the pan is a simple method to test. If it sticks, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong cookware could damage your hob or cause a fire.
It is also essential to keep children and other people away from the hob while it is being used, as the surface can become extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves whenever you are touching handles on metal pans because they are also very hot. It is also important to turn your stove off straight after use as they can remain hot for a long time. If a fire occurs, follow the fire service advice - to call 999 and leave the premises as quickly as possible.