15 Unquestionable Reasons To Love Best Hobs
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are long-lasting and stylish, as well as easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs due to their precise flame control and flexibility. However, electric models can provide superior energy efficiency and are also easier to keep clean. Look for features such as power boost and timer that allow you to increase the heat quickly in order to accelerate cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a modern, efficient alternative to the traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone like gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to heat the copper coils that are below your pans. The cooktop remains cool to the touch and is therefore more secure to use and easier to clean. They are able to boil water faster than a kettle and require less power. They're now a standard kitchen appliance in HelloFresh's test kitchen, and we are in love with this elegant, premium model from AEG which comes with four cooking zones with individually controlled functions as well as an efficient minute reminder. The smooth surface is easy to clean and the touch control panels are simple to use. However the heat distribution is uneven. This is a frequent complaint for all induction hobs.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year warranty and impressive environmental credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with a low power consumption of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones and adjust the power levels according to the size of your saucepans or pots. Additionally, the "Power Boost" function boosts the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up the boiling process. Other helpful features include an auto-shut off function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, so you never have to worry about burning food items.
This is an induction cooktop with a low price tag that can be wired to a worktop or new one. The zones of cooking that are independently controlled are clearly identified with a ring or cross to indicate where the centre of the coil is, while there's an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It has large "Flux Zone" that can be used to accommodate larger pots or pans. It's also pre-programmed with pre-set power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is great if you regularly cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought up to boiling point, simmered and then kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if you are American) remain the best option to cook in your kitchen. These are the ultimate go-to for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them as well as pan-frying eggs and frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to create high heat levels quickly and precisely, which makes them ideal for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows users to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is useful for security reasons. It's much harder to forget about leaving the burner on, or to switch it on by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's nothing that can fend off splashes and spillages completely, which is why you'll need to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are more energy efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on energy costs. This is particularly the case with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for a Hood. This will save the space in your kitchen as well as resulting in an elegant design that can be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. These can be simpler to install and offer more flexibility if you're looking to achieve a minimalistic look for your kitchen.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is a great option if you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler you like before you can think about this alternative. In addition, these models require a gas supply and ventilation as well as regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great option for those who want an elegant, energy-efficient appliance. These hobs use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic-ceramic glass surface keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, since they consume less power than their gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you'll have to purchase kitchen appliances that are compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good option for those who don't want to invest in the induction technology. These stylish and sleek hobs are smooth, glass-ceramic surface with heating elements that are hidden beneath which makes them more attractive than solid plate hobs. They're also easier to clean since there's no need for difficult scrubbing. They are more efficient in heating and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they are not the best choice if are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs, the low-cost option with their basic and durable design, are perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to heat up, making them an ideal choice for those who don't need a powerful cooktop. However, they may take a long time to cool down. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, which means they're not as efficient in energy use as other options on this list.
If you're thinking about buying a solid plate hob, we suggest looking for one that's been reviewed by customers on retailer websites. This will not only provide you with an honest view into how it works and how it's used, but it can also help you to find the right model for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it's finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls match in with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite option for cooks due to their rapid heat and easy control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. With modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking features, such as power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're an excellent option for busy households.
Choose an electric hob that has sleek design and touchscreen controls. Avoid hobs and ovens with dials or buttons that are protruding. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially if you opt for a flat surface that won't scratch or chip. For safety, choose one with child locks as well as hot indicators and heat shut-offs that will help prevent accidents. If you have a smart-connected home, opt for a digital display that gives you a remote control and alerts via your smartphone, so you can manage your hob with ease.
For ultimate flexibility, consider a dual fuel stove that has 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 that support traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times so that your food is cooked when you need it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less delicious.
For additional convenience, a model with two separate cooking zones for pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best choice. This can help save space and is useful if you often cook with large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
There are a variety of cheap, own-brand gas hobs that start at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost upwards of PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic stove or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you'd prefer glass there are a variety of excellent options from own-brand manufacturers. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require a special supply with the correct cables and breakers to work, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.