The Intermediate Guide Towards Best Hobs
Wiki Article
The Best Hobs
Hobs come in a range of sizes and materials. The most effective hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are the preferred choice of our experts due to their versatility and precise flame control. Electric models are more efficient and easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by using features such as an energy boost or a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a contemporary and efficient alternative to traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating up the entire cooking space as gas hobs do, they employ magnet technology to heat the copper coils underneath your pans. This means the cooktop itself remains cool to the surface, making them safer to use and easier to clean. They also heat water faster than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favorite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones, each with its specific functions and an hour minder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch-sensitive control panels are easy to use. However the distribution of heat is uneven. This is a common issue with all induction stoves.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year guarantee and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low power consumption of 775 watts per cooking zone. The "Flux zone" feature allows the pans to be moved around in the four zones and alter the power levels to fit your pans or pots, while the 'Power Boost function boosts the output by 50% for quick boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shutoff function as well as a 'fryingSensor' feature that stops the pan from overheating, which means you do not have to worry about burning food.
This is a great budget-friendly induction hob that can be easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified with an arrow or cross to indicate where the centre of the coil lies beneath and there's an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It has a wide "Flux zone" that can accommodate larger pans and pots with ease and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels that are set in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is a great option when cooking using a variety of pans of different sizes and shapes that need to be heated up and simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) are the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them, frying eggs and pan-frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to generate high levels of heat quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display allows you to see the status of each burner at a glance. This is extremely useful for safety. It's much harder to forget about leaving a burner on, or switch it off by accident as it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. There isn't a material that can shield the Neff T27DS59N0 against splashes or spills. You'll need to remain careful when cleaning to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their induction counterparts since they heat up more quickly and more evenly, thus reducing energy costs. This is especially true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances and eliminate the need for the hood. This can help save space in your kitchen, as well as creating a sleeker design that will blend into any style of interior.
Due to their effectiveness and their ease of use, a lot of home owners prefer to go for freestanding gas hobs rather than built-in versions. They're easier to install and provide more flexibility when you want to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
Another benefit of opting for an independent model is the ability to connect it to an LPG bottle. gas (LPG), which provides an alternative energy source if you're looking for a more sustainable option. You'll need to locate an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you look into this option. These models require gas supply as well as ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
If you're seeking an energy-efficient and sleek option an induction hob is the best option to choose. Hobs that induction cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. This makes induction hobs safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they use less electricity than electric or gas counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they are expensive to purchase. You'll need to invest in an induction-compatible set of cookware.
For those who don't want to invest in induction technology, ceramic hobs can be a good middle ground. These stylish and stylish hobs are smooth, glass-ceramic surface with heating elements concealed beneath, which makes them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean since there's no need for difficult scouring. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They do not offer the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they might not be an ideal choice if you are worried about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, which are a low-cost option with their basic and durable design, are great for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they can be 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 also give off lots of heat, so they're not as efficient in energy use as the other options on this list.
If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we suggest choosing one that's been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide a true insight into the quality of the product however, it will also assist you in finding one that is right for your home. For instance this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys is highly rated by customers and is finished in long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
Electric hobs have the advantage of being energy efficient. Although gas hobs might be a preferred choice for many chefs due to their instant heating and easy control, they are also popular because they can provide instant warmth. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic choice for busy households.
Look for an electric hob that has an elegant design and has touch controls. Avoid those with dials or buttons that protrude. They are more easy to clean with a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. For safety, choose models with child lock, hot indicators and residual heat shut-offs to stop accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for an electronic display that gives you control of your hob remotely and also notifications via your smartphone, ensuring you can manage your hob effortlessly.
To maximize flexibility, think about a dual fuel hob that includes gas burners and induction. The FH-IC7020 from FUJIOH has both. It has intuitive touchscreen controls for induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports to allow traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer function that lets you set specific cooking times for your dishes so that they're ready for use when needed which reduces the chance of overcooking and ovens making food less tasty.
For additional convenience For added convenience, a model that has two separate zones for cooking pans of different shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This will save space and is useful when cooking with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs also offer the option of adding induction plates or grills to provide additional cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and higher-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it won't cost a fortune too, since there are fantastic options that are made by own brand. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the correct breakers and cables to work, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.