The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Hob
Which ovens hobs (Going In this article) Are Right For You?
Ovens hobs are a vital kitchen appliance, but it can be difficult to determine which one is best for you. If you're looking for electric, gas or induction hobs we'll help you make the right choice.
Available in a variety of styles that include induction and ceramic domino hobs provide the flexibility of cooking. Choose from either one or two heat zones and mix the models to suit you; for instance, a ceramic area with a separate gas section.
Gas
Gas hobs are an essential kitchen appliance that can be used by both professionals and home cooks. Known for their flexibility and speed this kind of hob uses natural or propane gas to produce the flame that heats pots and pans which makes it suitable for cooking using a variety of techniques. The design of a gas cooker typically has several burners which can be controlled by the knob that permits you to adjust the intensity of the flame and its temperature. This level of control makes a gas hob an excellent option for cooking techniques that require delicate control like boiling and simmering.
Additionally, a gas hob's sleek design makes for an elegant kitchen design and its flat surface makes it easy to clean. Gas hobs are great for counters with smaller spaces because they do not protrude. However, one of the major drawbacks of a gas hob is that it requires access to an LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) pipeline as well as a specific fuel source that can add costs.
Gas stoves have been designed with safety as a priority. They are fitted with flame failure devices which automatically cut off gas supply when the flame ceases to burn. This feature helps to prevent the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. This feature is especially important in homes with children or pets. Modern hobs also come with automatic shut-offs that stop the flow of gas if there is an unexpected electrical short circuit or surge.
If you're thinking of buying a gas hob, make sure to speak with a qualified Gas Safe Registered fitter to ensure that your installation is done correctly and that the stove is in compliance with all safety guidelines. If you try to install or fix the gas hob on yourself, it could cause leaks, fire hazards, and health risks.
As a result, it is important to consider the long-term expenses of a hob prior to making a final purchase. Electric hobs are more efficient in energy than gas hobs due to the fact that they transfer heat directly to the cookware. Additionally, many electric-powered hobs are equipped with additional features, such as automatic shut-off or pan detection, which makes them safer to use than other hobs.
Induction
While gas and traditional electric cooktops heat via conduction (which is a hot burner that heats the surface of your pot or pan) Induction utilizes electromagnetism to heat directly the cooking pan. Induction cooktops are able to get hotter faster, more accurately and efficiently. It also means less energy is wasted, since heat is only transferred to your cooktop through the magnetic field, not from a heated resistance coil or open flame.
Induction stoves can be tricky to master at first. They require a particular type of cookware that is compatible with the heating technology: flat-bottomed ferrromagnetic cookware and pots. Most modern kitchenware can be used, however older pots and pans might not work unless you use an induction interface disk. The interface disk sits on top of the existing cookware and creates an elongated magnetic surface that allows the burner to communicate with it. Induction cooktops aren't as hot on your hands like traditional electrical or gas cooktops, but they still could cause burns to your hands if you stay too long on the surface.
Another disadvantage is that the cooking surface won't start if your cookware isn't seated on it as a safety feature to help avoid accidental fires and burns. Induction burners cannot be accidentally turned on when the pan is cooling. This is not possible with a gas or electric stove.
Induction cookers do not release harmful pollutants like nitrous dioxides, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde once they are switched off. These pollutants can cause worsening of respiratory ailments. And when they're paired with a renewable energy source induction cookers can be completely emissions-free.
The only drawback is that induction cooktops may emit a buzzing noise. The noise is more apparent at higher temperatures and can cause interference with digital meat thermometers. However you can minimize it by using heavy pans with flat bottoms. The hum doesn't harm however some cooks find it annoying. It is recommended to test an induction cooktop prior to buying one, which is why many appliance stores offer demo kitchens or loaners where you can test the cooktops out.
Ceramic
Electric ceramic cookers are the most popular type in UK kitchens. They are flush with the worktop, and are clad in glass to give them a sleek modern look. They are also easy to clean. They have a flat surface, so there are no crevices that food could be stuck. A simple wipe is all you need. They are equipped with a variety of safety features like hot indicators that let you know when the zones are still hot and locks that stop children from using them.
The pan or cookware is heated electronically by passing electricity through coiled elements under the glass that is tempered. They are not as energy efficient as induction or gas however they are a cost-effective and convenient way to cook. They are prone to scratches when pots or pans are dragged over the surface, however they have shatterproof safety glass.
The flat surface of a ceramic hob also makes it very quick to warm up and cool down as the heat is radiated through the cookware, not the entire hob. This makes them easier to use in a hectic household. Ceramic hobs are also more expensive, but they are worth it due to their design and ease-of-use.
It is important to remember that whichever type of hob you choose, it should be based on your own preferences in cooking and lifestyle. If you are looking for high-precision, speed and energy efficiency then the induction or gas hobs might be more suitable for you. Before you decide on the kind of hob you want to buy, it is crucial to think about your budget and current cookware. Once you have completed this, you can start looking for the perfect new stove to match your oven. Our team of experts is ready to answer any questions you have. Contact us via phone, email or in person. We have a wide selection of kitchen products to help you create your dream kitchen.
Halogen
There's something very satisfying about the moment you bring a halogen oven in the kitchen and watching your food cook quickly under its glowing lid. It's a form of dry-heat cooking, meaning that it heats air or food to high temperatures. A Halogen oven can reach these temperatures quicker than conventional ovens, often in just minutes.
They are also more responsive to temperature adjustments which makes them ideal for all styles of cooking. For instance they are great at roasting and frying, but can also be used to bake and steam. Some models are equipped to grill infrared without the smoke and mess of charcoal.
Halogen ovens heat up much faster than a conventional one. It also gets to the maximum temperature much faster. The power is cut off once it reaches the temperature required, so there is no risk of overheating. The lid is designed to hold heat, distribute it evenly and cook food to perfection.
Halogen ovens are available for less than PS40. They can be used for cooking, steam and even rotisserie. Many come with a glass bowl, which makes it easier to keep an eye on the food and make sure that the food doesn't burn.
There are some drawbacks to consider with a halogen oven though for example the bulbs may blow out after a while and require to be replaced. Also, some models have weak stands for the oven, and they are easily smashed over by pets or kids.
Halogen ovens may also produce some unhealthful byproducts when heated. These are called 'process contaminants and include acrylamide polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs) which can cause cancer in humans. However, if you are mindful to follow the guidelines and use the oven with a non-stick pan that reduces the risks significantly. Halogen ovens usually have a warning label on them, highlighting the dangers and it's crucial to read the label carefully prior to using the oven.