Don't Make This Silly Mistake You're Using Your Best Hobs
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The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in different sizes and materials. The best hobs are durable elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts prefer gas hobs due to their precise flame control and versatility. However, electric hobs can provide superior energy efficiency and are more easy to keep clean. You can accelerate the cooking process by using features like an energy boost or a timer.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs provide a contemporary, efficient alternative to the traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area like gas hobs do magnet technology to heat the copper coils underneath your pans. The cooktop is cool to the touch which makes it safer to use and simpler to clean. They can boil water faster than kettles and require less power. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with their specific functions and the minute minder. It has a smooth surface that is easy to clean and is simple to operate using the touch control panels, but one minor gripe (which is typical for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven, but this is only noticeable when trying to stir-fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency, with a low power consumption of just 750w per cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and you can adjust the power levels in accordance with the pots or pans you use. In addition, the "Power booster" function increases the output of the hob by 50%, which speeds up the boiling process. Other helpful features include an auto-shutoff function, as well as an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burning food items.
This is a fantastic affordable induction cooker that can be easily wired and fitted to a brand new or existing worktop. The cooking zones that are independently controlled are clearly identified with a ring or cross to show you where the center of the coil is and there's an easy-to-use control panel. It has a wide 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pots and pans easily, and it's pre-programmed to have power levels that are set in the front and middle zones as well as the rear. This is an excellent option when cooking with a variety of pans of various sizes and shapes that need to be heated, simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops if you're American) are the best choice to cook in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces, frying meats and eggs as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due the fact that they can quickly and accurately create high heat levels making them ideal for searing and boiling.
The visual flame indicator allows you to see each burner's status at an instant. This is extremely useful for security. It's much more difficult to forget to turn off the burner on, or to switch it off accidentally as it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface that makes them easier to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. However, it's apparent that there's nothing that can stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll have to be on top of cleaning to keep the Neff T27DS59N0 from getting blemished over time.
Gas hobs are more energy efficient than their induction counterparts, as they heat up faster and evenly, saving on the cost of electricity. This is especially true with vented hobs, which combine two appliances into one and remove the need for a hood. This will save space in your kitchen, and create a sleeker appearance that will blend into any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer gas hobs with freestanding design over built-in models due to their effectiveness and ease of use. These are easier to install and provide more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a a minimalistic kitchen look.
Another advantage of choosing a freestanding model is the ability to connect it to the bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) which is an alternative source of energy if you're looking for a greener alternative. However, you'll need be able to locate a suitable LPG boiler and stove before this option becomes a possibility for you. In addition, these models require gas supply and ventilation as well as regular maintenance to ensure there aren't any leaks.
3. Hobs with Sealed Plates
Induction hobs are the ideal option for those who want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. They cook pots and pans with electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surface remains cool. Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental fire!) Induction hobs are more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than their gas or electrical counterparts. Induction hobs can be expensive and you'll need to buy induction-compatible cookware.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent alternative for those who don't wish to invest in Induction technology. These stylish and stylish hobs feature a smooth, glass-ceramic surface that has heating elements hidden underneath that make them more aesthetically pleasing than solid plate hobs. They are also easier to clean as there's no need for a tricky cleaning. Plus, they are more efficient at heating than solid plate hobs and are more flexible to your cooking needs. They don't have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs. Therefore, they are not a good choice if you are concerned about your energy consumption.
Solid plate hobs, the budget option with their simple and sturdy design, are ideal for everyday cooking. They're quick to warm up and are perfect for those who don't require a high-powered cooktop, but they're slow to cool down, so they're not the best choice for chefs who are able to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs also give off a lot of residual heat, which means they're not as efficient in energy use as other choices on this list.
If you're considering a solid plate hob, we recommend choosing one that has been rated by customers on retailer websites. This will not only give you an honest assessment of the quality of the product and will aid you in locating the right one for your home. Customers have given this Neff CSPHOBX15 Solid Plate Electric Hob from Currys high marks and it's made of robust stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it a sleek and modern appearance.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular option for cooks due to their instant heating and easy to control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction stoves that come with advanced cooking functions, like power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a great option for busy households.
When you're choosing an electric stove choose one that's streamlined with touch controls, and no dials or buttons sticking out. This makes them less difficult to clean, especially if you opt for a flat surface that won't chip or scratch. Choose a model that has child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may opt for an electronic display that lets you control your stove remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that has both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones and sturdy cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. There's also a timer that allows you to set specific cooking times for dishes so they are ready when needed and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
To make cooking more convenient for added convenience, a kitchen appliance with two separate cooking zones for pans of various shapes and sizes could be the best option. This will save space and is beneficial if you often cook using large rectangular cooking vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs have the option of adding induction plates or Teppanyaki grills to provide additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available in various prices, ranging from hobs oven as low as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or an induction model from a major brand should not cost more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it shouldn't break the bank either as there are some excellent own-brand options. Be aware that induction and ceramic hobs require a specific supply with the correct breakers and cables to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.