The Best Hobs
Hobs can be found in various sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy and stylish, as well as easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts for their versatility and precision flame control. Electric models are more efficient in energy use and are easier to clean. You can speed up the cooking process by utilizing features like a power boost and a timer.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs provide a contemporary, efficient alternative to the traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking space like gas hobs they employ magnetic technology to only warm the copper coils that are below your pans. The cooktop remains cool to touch, making it safer to use and simpler for cleaning. They are able to boil more quickly than kettles and use less power. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with their distinct functions, as well as a minute timer. It has a smooth, smooth surface that can be cleaned easily and is simple to operate with the touch control panels, but one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven, but this is only really noticeable when stirring-frying.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating, with the lowest power consumption of 750 watts for each cooking zone. The 'Flux Zone' feature allows you move your pans within the four zones, and adjust the power levels according to the pots or pans you use. Meanwhile, the 'Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up the boiling process. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function, as well as a 'fryingSensor' that prevents your cooking pan from overheating which means you do not need to worry about burning food.
This is a affordable induction cooker that can be easily hardwired and attached to a new or existing worktop. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly identified with the use of a cross or ring to indicate which side of the coil is it, and there's also a simple touch-control panel. It features an enormous "Flux Zone" that can accommodate larger pans or pots. It's also pre-programmed to have preset power levels for the front, middle, and rear zones. This is great if you often cook with a variety of sizes or shaped pans that have to be brought to the boil, simmered and kept warm while cooking.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) remain the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. They are ideal for boiling water simmering soups and sauces cooking eggs and meats, frying them as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to rapidly and accurately produce high heat levels, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see the status of every burner in one glance, which is helpful for security reasons. It's a lot harder to forget to turn off a burner on, or even switch it off accidentally when compared to an electric hob.
The majority of models have a flat surface, which makes them more manageable than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could fend off splashes and spillages completely, so you'll need to be vigilant about cleaning duties to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs can also be more energy efficient than their induction cousins, as they heat up more quickly and evenly, saving on energy costs. This is especially true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and eliminate the requirement for the grill. This will save the space in your kitchen and also create an elegant design that can blend in with any style of interior.
Because of their effectiveness and convenience, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that stand on their own instead of built-in models. They're simpler to install and offer greater flexibility if you're trying to create a minimalist design for your kitchen.
Another benefit of going for a freestanding model is the ability to connect it to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which can be an alternative energy source for you're looking for a more sustainable option. You'll need to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can consider this alternative. In addition, these models require gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Hobs for Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are a great option if you want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, and the glass-ceramic surface stays cool. Induction hobs are safer (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient since they consume less energy than electrical or gas counterparts. However, the disadvantage of induction hobs is that they can be expensive to purchase and you'll need to invest in a set of induction-compatible cookware.
If you don't wish to invest in ceramic hobs, induction hobs can be a good alternative. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements that are hidden beneath which makes them more attractive than solid plate hobs. oven to clean, as there's no need for complicated cleaning. 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, so they might not be a good choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Then, solid plate hobs are the best budget alternative, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're quick to get hot, making them a good option for those who don't need a powerful cooktop. However, they can take a long time to cool. Solid plate hobs also give off a lot of residual heat, so they're not as efficient in energy use as the other options on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend choosing one that's been reviewed by customers on retailers websites. This will not only give you an honest insight into how it works however, it will assist you in locating the right model for your home. The customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high ratings and it is finished in durable stainless steel. best ovens and hobs uk blend with other appliances in the kitchen with a sleek and contemporary look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks thanks to their rapid heating and easy to control, electric hobs are more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves come with advanced cooking features like power boost settings and temperature control. They're an excellent choice for busy households.
Find an electric hob that has an elegant design and has touchscreen controls. Avoid hobs with buttons or dials that are protruding. best ovens and hobs uk are more easy to clean when they have a smooth surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks as well as hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you're a smart-connected home, opt for an electronic display that gives you control of your hob remotely and also notifications through your smartphone, so you can control your hob effortlessly.
For maximum 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 sturdy cast iron pan supports that allow traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set certain cooking times so that your food is cooked when you require it. This helps reduce the risk of cooking too long and makes your food less delicious.
For added convenience, you might want a model that permits you to join two cooking zones into one zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can help save space and is beneficial for those who cook frequently with large rectangular cooking dishes 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 for sale starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that cost up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand will not cost more than PS200. If you're looking for an elegant glass model, it won't cost a fortune also, as there are excellent own-brand options. But, keep in mind that both induction and ceramic hobs need a specific supply that is plugged in with the correct cables and breakers to work so you'll need to get it installed by a qualified electrician.