Searching For Inspiration? Try Looking Up Hobs
Searching For Inspiration? Try Looking Up Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they use electricity. Induction hobs can be used with virtually any type of cookware. However, they need compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or a ding. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod" which means a crag, a hill, or a"crag.
Folklore has it that hobs are faery spirit who do household chores. They are usually benevolent but they can be a nuisance if they are upset. One example of a hob was the hobthrush found in Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking device is another popular use. Hobs are iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob will usually be flat and has a variety of cooking elements, such as rings. In some instances, the hob can be replaced by a flat rock that is used as a quoits goal.
The first documented uses of the word hob date to the 16th century. It was probably acquired at the same time as the feminine form, hobgoblin. It originates from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their benign nature, hobs are known to play pranks on people. They can be destructive if provoked. For instance, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry carts on its roof, causing an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. Furthermore, they can be a hassle to work with due their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mainly found in the UK they can also be used in other countries. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled with the click of a button, and they can be used alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These features are attracting buyers. Additionally, some models feature advanced safety features, for instance the child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surface remains cool to touch and only gets hot when it comes into contact with compatible cookware. This reduces the chance of burns. The power is also deactivated instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking area. These safety features are especially useful in the home where children or guests could be present.
Induction hobs use less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have the 'Stop and Go' function that instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for ease of use when you need to leave the kitchen. Some models feature a bridge feature that joins two induction zones to create one large zone that is controlled by a single control. This allows for greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones means you can cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.
Simple easy-to-use controls are available to alter the power settings of a hob. They are easy to read and operate. Many hobs also have timers, presets for the most common cooking tasks, automatic shut-offs as well as a Booster feature that only uses maximum power for the specified duration, and a gentle "bottom heat" to speed up simmering and help conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not have 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 elegance and style to modern kitchens with modern, sleek lines that complement other appliances and decor.
Sensors are used in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions. They monitor the surface of the hob for indications of excessive heat or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to avoid injury and fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs as it helps reduce the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs utilize sensors to know when the cookware isn't touching it. This can protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs that are available. It's important to choose the best one for your kitchen. Some features are: heat control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you select will also impact on your budget in both the initial cost and running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame with natural gas. This heats pots and pans. They are a preferred option for many home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used with a large variety of cooking appliances. However gas hobs can be more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, for example, cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more susceptible than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the flame and ensure that the stove is adequately secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are yet another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements under glass or ceramic surfaces to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based products. However, they take longer to warm up and cool down than other types of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plate hobs but feature a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more efficient in energy use however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs offer more flexibility in terms of heat control, with some offering touchscreen controls, while others have physical knobs to turn.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops, using electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This read more technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners that are exposed making them easier to clean. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and are not suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are an essential part of any kitchen but they can be risky if you don't take precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not properly cleaning them can lead to fires that could damage your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be an important cause of kitchen fires.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to become damaged or even shatter, posing the risk of fire. 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 the output of heat is consistent and does not exceed the limits of safety. These features protect the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Induction hobs are deemed safe to use, even though some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF are not as strong than those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they produce is not ionizing.
Induction hobs work only with certain types of cookware. It's important to make sure that your cookware and pots are induction-ready before you begin using them. A simple way to check this is to hold a magnet at the base of the pan. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Making the wrong choice of cookware could result in damage to your stove and possibly a fire.
It is also essential to keep children and other people away from the hob while it's in use, as the surface can get extremely hot. It is recommended to wear oven gloves to avoid touching the handles of the pan made of metal, as they can be extremely hot. It is also essential to switch your hob off immediately after use because they can remain hot for a while. If you experience a fire, follow the fire service advice - to call 999 and leave your home as soon as you can.