What is a Hob?
The hob is an essential part of every kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are more affordable than gas ones, however they use electricity. They can also be used with nearly all cookware brands however, induction hobs need compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or a dent. The name also traces its roots to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which refers to a crag or hill.
Folklore says that hobs are faery spirit who help with household chores. They are generally kind however they can also be a nuisance if they are upset. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It is believed to cure whooping-cough.
Another common use of the word is to refer to a kind of cooking equipment. Hobs are iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob is usually flat and has a variety of cooking elements, like rings. In some cases, the hob can be replaced with flat stones to permit it to function as a target for quoits.
The earliest attested uses of the term hob date to the 16th century. It was likely acquired in the same time frame as the female counterpart, hobgoblin, which is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were celebrated fairy and domestic spirit.
Despite their benign nature hobs can play amusing pranks on people. They can also be very destructive if they are provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place a cart on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use due to their speed and strength.
While hobs are mostly found in the UK, they can be used in other countries as well. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled with one button and can be paired with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some hobs can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth making them more convenient to use. These features are attracting buyers. Certain models also come with advanced safety features like a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for rapid heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surface remains cool to touch and only is heated when in contact with compatible cookware. This minimizes the risk of burning. The power is also shut off immediately when cookware leaves the cooking area. These safety features can be particularly beneficial in homes where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction hobs use less gas than traditional stoves, which can help reduce the energy bills of households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a 'Stop & Go' function that instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for convenience when you need to leave the kitchen. Others feature bridge functions, which joins two induction cooking zones to create a large zone controlled by a single control for greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted with simple easy-to-use controls that are easy to read and use. Many offer timers, presets for the most typical cooking functions, automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' function that makes use of the maximum power for the required amount of time, and a gentle 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and save energy.
Furthermore, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electronic hob is easy to clean and does not have the nooks and crannies of traditional gas burners which can collect dirt and grime with time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add sophistication and style to modern kitchens. They have sleek, contemporary lines to complement other appliances and décor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions. They monitor the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then cut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs as it helps reduce the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs also employ sensors to determine if cookware isn't in contact with the oven to prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs to choose from. It's important to choose the one that is suitable for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob that you select will have an impact on your budget - both the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame with natural gas. This heats pots and pans. They are a popular choice for cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to provide precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used with a large variety of cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs can also be more prone than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the flame that is open, and make sure your stove is secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, another option in the kitchen, use electric elements under a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based products. They are more difficult to cool and heat up than other hobs, and are difficult for cleaning.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, however they feature a filament lamp that heats the surface. ovens uk are more energy efficient, but still take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some are equipped with touchscreen controls, while others use physical knobs.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops, using electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and more evenly heat distribution. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners exposed making them easier to clean. However, they are not as efficient in simmering and may not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you don't make the necessary precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning can cause fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or others. That's why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are one of the leading causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating could cause damage or shatter cookware, which could create a fire risk. Many hobs come with safety systems that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems also make use of power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs however, the technology is safe to use. The EMFs produced by these devices aren't as powerful and effective like those generated by mobile phones, and their radiation isn't ionizing.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types cookware. It is important to make sure that your pots and saucepans are ready for induction before you use them. A simple way to check this is to put an iron near the bottom of the pan. If it sticks, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Making the wrong choice of cookware could result in damage to your stove and possibly an accident.
It is also essential to keep children and other people away from the cooking area when it is in use, since the surface may become extremely hot. It is recommended to wear oven gloves to avoid touching the handles on the metal pan since they are extremely hot. Finally, it's important to turn your stove off immediately after use because they can stay hot for a time. Follow the instructions of the fire department and call 999 as soon as you can if there's an incident of fire.