A hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are less expensive than gas ones, however they use electricity. They can also be used with nearly all cookware brands however, induction hobs require compatible pans that generate a magnetic field.Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which means pit, hole or a dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which translates to a crag, hill, or a crag.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who perform household chores. They are generally benevolent, however they can be annoying if they are offended. One of these hobs was Hobthrush, which was found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It was able to treat whooping cough.
Another common use of the term is to refer to a kind of cooking equipment. Hobs are a type of metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of the plate is typically flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements including rings. In some cases the hob could be replaced by flat stones to permit it to function as a target for quoits.
The first documented usage of the word "hob" dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. It was probably used at the same time as the feminine form hobgoblin. The word hob is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.Despite their innocent nature hobs are known to play pranks on people. They can also be destructive when they are provoked. For instance, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry carts on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mainly found in the UK they can also be found in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with just a single button, and can be paired alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These types of features are enticed buyers to buy these devices. Some models also have advanced safety features such as a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their speedy heating and energy efficiency as well as their precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and are heated only when they come into contact with cookware that is compatible that reduces the chance of burns. Additionally, the power is deactivated immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking zone. These safety features are especially beneficial in homes, where children and guests may be present in the kitchen.
Induction hobs use less gas than traditional stovetops. This can help reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models come with the 'Stop and Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for ease of use when you must leave the kitchen. Some models also have bridge functions that joins two cooking zones induction into a single large zone managed by a single control for greater flexibility. You can also use larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones that have the capability of connecting multiple zones.
The power settings on a stove can be adjusted using simple and intuitive controls that are simple to read and use. Many also offer timers, presets for the most common 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 cut down on simmering times and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob; learn here, makes it simple to clean. It also does not have the nooks and crevices that can collect dirt over time, like traditional gas stoves. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with sleek, modern lines that complement other appliances and décor.
Hobs with automatic switch-off functions have sensors that scan the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal temperature or explosive substances, then automatically cutting off the gas supply to prevent injuries and fires. This feature is especially important for gas hobs because it decreases the chance of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to determine the cookware isn't in contact it. This can stop electric shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs available. It's important to choose the best hobs uk one for your kitchen. Some features are: heating control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of hob you select will also impact on your budget in both the initial cost and ongoing costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame by using natural gas. This heats pans and pots. They are a favorite choice for cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power failures 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. In addition, they can be more vulnerable to flare-ups that happen accidentally and fires, so it is important to be mindful of the open flame and ensure that the stove is adequately protected by grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, a different option for cooking, use electric elements under a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. These hobs are cost-effective and provide excellent heat distribution for flat-based objects. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other types of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more efficient in energy use, but still take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs offer more flexibility in terms of heat control, with some featuring touch-based controls while others have physical knobs that you can turn.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops, employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient, resulting faster heating as well as a more uniform distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have fewer exposed burners and grates making them easier to clean. However, they aren't as efficient at simmering and may not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are a risky part of your kitchen if you don't take the necessary precautions. Leaving pans unattended and not properly cleaning them can lead to fires that could harm your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. This is why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are among of the leading causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to break or shatter, which could pose the risk of fire. The majority of hobs have safety features that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems employ power modulation as well to ensure that heat output is constant and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features protect the hob and its components, while preventing fire hazards to other kitchen surfaces.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs, the technology is considered safe to use. These EMF aren't as strong than those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they produce is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types of cookware So it's essential to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. By placing a magnet on the pan's base is a quick way to test. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Making the wrong choice of cookware could result in damaging your hob and causing an accident.
Be sure to keep children and other guests away from the hob when it is in use. The surface can become extremely hot. You should also use oven uk gloves to touch handles of the pan made of metal because they can be extremely hot. Finally, it's important to turn your stove off straight after use as they can remain hot for a long time. If a fire occurs then follow the fire department's instructions - call 999 and leave your home as quickly as possible.