The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy and stylish, as well as easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts for their versatility and precision control of flames. But, electric models provide superior energy efficiency and are also easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer and power boost which allow you to boost the heat quickly to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs provide a contemporary, efficient alternative to the traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking space as gas hobs do magnet technology to heat only the copper coils that are beneath the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the surface which makes them safer to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than a traditional kettle and use less energy. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in the HelloFresh kitchen test kitchen. We love this elegant, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones, each with its own controlled functions as well as an efficient minute minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common issue with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive green certifications. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency and a low energy consumption of just 700w for each cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature lets you to move your pans around in the four zones and adjust their power levels to suit the pans or pots you use and the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% to ensure quick boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops the pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burnt food.
This is an induction stove that is priced at a bargain that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are marked with an arrow, cross or arrow to indicate the center of the coil. It also has a touch-control panel. It features an enormous "Flux Zone" which can hold larger pans or pots. It also comes 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 up, simmered at the same while being kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water simmering sauces and soups cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high temperatures making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of each burner at an instant. This is very helpful to ensure safety. With an electric hob, it's less likely to accidentally turn on an appliance or forget it was on.
Most models are also designed with a flat surface which makes them less difficult to clean than ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's nothing that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll need to be on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming blemished over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up more quickly and evenly, saving on energy costs. This is especially true with vented stoves that combine the two appliances into one and eliminate the need for a vent hood. This will save space in your kitchen and create an elegant look that can be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. They are simpler to install and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve an elegant kitchen design.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option if you want to go green. However, you'll need to find the right LPG stove and boiler before this becomes an option for you. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're looking for an energy-efficient and sleek option an induction cooker is the best option to choose. These hobs are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they consume less power than their electric or gas counterparts. However, the drawback of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase. In addition, you'll require an induction-compatible set of cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good alternative. These sleek and stylish hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They are more visually appealing and easier to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need hard scrubbing. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they are behind induction hobs when it comes to energy efficiency, so if conscious of your energy usage this might not be the best option for you.
Finally, solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a simple and sturdy design that's ideal for everyday cooking. They're easy to get hot, making them a good choice for those who don't require a large cooktop. However, they do take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs are also not as energy efficient as other alternatives.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only provide you with an honest view into the performance of the appliance however, it will aid you in finding the right model for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is finished in durable stainless steel. Best ovens UK www.ovensandhobs.uk go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs offer the benefit of being energy efficient. While gas hobs may be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their rapid heating and ease of control, they are also a popular choice because they are quick to heat. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves have advanced cooking functions like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
When selecting an electric hob make sure you choose one that is sleek with touch controls and without dials or buttons that stick out. This makes them less difficult to clean, particularly when you choose flat surfaces that don't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to stop accidents. If you have a smart home, you may opt for a digital display which lets you control your hob remotely and receive notifications via your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that has both induction and gas burners for maximum flexibility. FUJIOH’s FH-IC7020 has both. It features intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and durable cast iron pan supports to accommodate traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that allows you to set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they are ready when needed which reduces the chance of cooking too long and making food less delicious.
To make cooking more convenient, a model with two separate cooking pans in different shapes and sizes is the best option. This will save space and be useful if you cook with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to offer additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at various prices, from as low as PS100 to top-of-the-line models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or an induction hob from a reputable brand should still cost you no more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it shouldn't cost much either as there are some top options from own brands. But, keep in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll need it installed by a qualified electrician.