10 Things Your Competitors Can Teach You About Best Hobs
The Best HobsHobs are available in different sizes and materials. The best hobs will be durable, stylish and simple to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs because of their precise flame control and flexibility. But, electric models offer superior energy efficiency and are easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process with features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs provide a contemporary efficient and effective alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils beneath your pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact which makes them safer to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil water faster than a kettle and use less power. They're now a common appliance in the HelloFresh's test kitchen, and we are in love with this sleek, premium model by AEG that comes with four cooking zones that have individually controlled functions as well as an efficient minute timer. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are easy to use. However the heat distribution is patchy. This is a common complaint with all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive green credentials. It has an A+ energy rating, with a low power consumption of 750W for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you to move your pans between the four zones, and adjust the power levels in accordance with your pots or saucepans. Meanwhile, the 'Power Boost" function boosts the output of the hob by 50% to speed up the boiling process. The auto-shutoff function and the 'fryingSensor' that helps to prevent overheating of your pan, are also useful features.
This is an induction stove with a low price tag that can be wired to a worktop or a new one. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified by a ring or cross to indicate where the centre of the coil is, while there's an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It features a large "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease, and it's pre-programmed to have power levels set 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 to a boiling point, simmered and then kept warm simultaneously.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are still the best choice to cook in your kitchen. They're the ideal choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity is due to their ability to quickly and accurately create high temperatures making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator allows users to check the status of each burner in a glance, which is useful for security reasons. With an electric hob, it's harder to switch off an appliance or forget it was on.
The majority of models have a flat surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's no material that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll need to keep on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy-efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, which saves electricity costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the need for an Hood. This can free up space in your kitchen and create a sleeker look that will be a perfect fit with any interior style.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their efficiency and ease-of-use. These are easier to set up and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve an elegant kitchen design.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle that contains liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option if you are looking to go green. However, you'll need be able to find the right LPG stove and boiler before this is an option for you. Additionally, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the ideal option for those who want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs heat pans and pots using electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burning!) Induction hobs are more secure (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'll have to purchase cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
If you don't wish to invest in the latest induction technology, ceramic hobs offer a good alternative. These sleek and stylish hobs are smooth, glass-ceramic finish with heating elements that are hidden beneath that make them more attractive than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean, as there's no need for a difficult scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They don't offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, which means they might not be a good choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, a budget option with their simple and durable design, are great for cooking at home. They're quick to get hot and ideal for those who don't need a high-powered cooktop, but they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the ideal choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other options.
We suggest that you search for reviews on the websites of retailers if you are considering a solid-plate hob. Not only will this provide you with an honest view into how it performs and how it's used, but it can also help you to find a model that's right 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 go well with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have best hobs uk the benefit of being energy-efficient. While gas hobs may be the preferred choice of many chefs due to their rapid heating and ease of control, they are also a popular choice due to the fact that they provide instant warmth. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking functions like power up settings and temperature control. They're a great choice for busy households.
When choosing an electric hob make sure you choose one that has a sleek design with touch controls and without dials or buttons that stick out. This makes them easier to clean, particularly when you select flat surfaces that don't chip or scratch. For safety, choose a model with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs to help prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you a remote control and alerts through your smartphone, so you can control your hob effortlessly.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with both induction and gas burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 by FUJIOH comes with both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports to support traditional gas cooking. The timer function allows you to set cooking times to ensure that your food is cooked when you require it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long, and can make your food less tasty.
For additional convenience, a model with two separate zones for cooking pans in different shapes and sizes could be the best option. This can save space and is useful for cooking in large rectangular vessels such as roasting pans. Similarly, some hobs have the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for additional cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. But a basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should cost less than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model it won't cost a fortune too, since there are excellent own-brand options. Be aware that both ceramic and induction hobs require a particular supply that is plugged in with the correct breakers and cables so you'll need to get it installed by a certified electrician.