What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They use electric energy but can be cheaper than gas hobs. They also work with almost every cookware type, but induction hobs require compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related 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 has it hobs are faery spirits who do household chores. They are usually benevolent however they can also become a nuisance when offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It was able to treat whooping cough.
Another popular use of the word is to refer to a type of cooking equipment. Hobs are a type of metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of a hob will usually be flat and has a variety of cooking elements, including rings. In certain instances the hob could be replaced by an elongated stone that allows it to function as a quoits target.
The first recorded use of the term "hob" dates back to the early sixteenth century. It was probably acquired in the same period as the feminine form, hobgoblin, which is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were famous fairy tales and domestic spirits.
Hobs are known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive if provoked. For instance, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to put carts on its roof, causing an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. Additionally they can be a hassle to work with due their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly found in the UK they are also used in other countries. They are available in many varieties, including gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled by the press of a button, and they can be utilized in conjunction with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These features are appealing to consumers. Additionally, some models feature advanced safety features, for instance the child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their quick heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surface remains cool to the touch and only is heated when in contact with compatible cookware. This reduces the chance for burns. Additionally, the power is deactivated immediately when the cookware is removed from the cooking area. These safety features can be especially useful in the home where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction hobs consume less gas than traditional stoves, which reduces the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models have a 'Stop and Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking zones to their lowest setting when you are required to leave the kitchen. Certain models come with bridge features that connect two induction zones into a large zone controlled by one control. This allows for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pans and pots or odd-sized ones, with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
Simple, intuitive controls are available to adjust the power settings of a hob. They are easy to read and operate. Many also offer timers, pre-sets to common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a 'Booster' function that uses maximum power for the necessary amount of time, and a gentle 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and conserve energy.
Moreover, 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 are prone to collecting dirt and grime with time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add style and sophistication to the modern kitchen, with modern, sleek lines that blend with other appliances and decor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs with automatic shut-off features. They scan the surface of the hob to detect signs of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to avoid injury and fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs since it helps reduce the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to determine the cookware isn't in contact it. This will prevent electric shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs to choose from. It is important to select the best one for your kitchen. Some features are: heating control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of hob that you select will have an impact on your budget - both in the initial cost as well as the ongoing costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame by using natural gas. They heat pans and pots. Many home cooks choose them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used with a wide 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. Be aware of the flame, and make sure the stove is properly protected by grills with safety.
Plate hobs, another option for kitchens make use of electric elements on a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are economical for flat-based products. However, they are slower to warm up and cool down than other kinds of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs look similar to electric plates, however they feature a filament lamp that is used to heat the surface. They are more energy-efficient however they require more time to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of heat control, with some offering control buttons that are touch-based, while others come with physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and more evenly heat distribution. Additionally induction hobs are simpler to clean than other types of hobs because they don't have grates or burners exposed. They are not as good at simmering, and they might not be suitable for use with heavy-bottomed cooking pots.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you do not take the proper precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not cleaning them properly can lead to fires that could harm your kitchen and cause injury to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be an important cause of kitchen fires.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to become damaged or even shatter, which can pose a fire risk. Most hobs have 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 safe limits. These features safeguard the hob and its components, as well as making sure that ovens uk there are no fire hazards on the nearby surfaces in the kitchen.
While some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. These EMF are not as strong than those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they generate is non-ionising.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types of cookware So it's essential to verify that your cookware and pans are ready for induction prior to using them. One way to test this is to place an iron near the bottom of the pan. If it is stuck the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong type of cookware could result in damage to your stove and possibly a fire.
It is also essential to ensure that children and other people stay away from the hob while it is in use, since the surface can get extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves when touching the handles of a metal pan because they are also extremely hot. It is also crucial to turn your oven off immediately after use since they can remain hot for a time. If a fire occurs, follow the fire service advice to dial 999 and leave your home as quickly as possible.