Searching For Inspiration? Check Out Hobs
Searching For Inspiration? Check Out Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital part of every kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass which is heatproof and shatterproof. They also feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are more affordable than gas ones, but they require electricity. They can also be used with nearly every cookware type however, induction hobs require compatible pans that generate a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a 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 also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means a crag, hill or a"crag.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are usually kind, but they can also be an issue if they are upset. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It could cure whooping-cough.
Another popular usage of the term is to refer to a specific type of cooking equipment. A hob is an iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface is typically flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements including rings. In certain instances, the hob is replaced by flat rocks that can be used as a goal for quoits.
The first documented use of the term "hob" is from the beginning of the 16th century. It was likely acquired in the same timeframe as the feminine form, hobgoblin, which originates from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were celebrated fairy and domestic spirit.
Hobs are well-known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive when they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire for instance, was able bring a cart up its roof. This caused a huge problem for the farmer. Furthermore, they can be a pain to work with due their speed and strength.
While hobs are mostly used in the UK however, they can be used in other countries too. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with a single button and are compatible alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These types of features are attracting customers to purchase these devices. Some models also have advanced safety features like locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for their speedy heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and they heat up only when they are in contact with compatible cookware, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is shut off instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in the home where guests and children are likely to be in the kitchen.
In addition, induction stoves require less gas than traditional stoves, which can help reduce the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a "Stop & Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking zones to their lowest setting when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models have a bridge function that connects two cooking zones induction to create a large zone controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones also means you can cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.
The power settings on a stove can be adjusted using simple and intuitive controls that are simple to use and read. Hobs can also be equipped with timers, presets for common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs as well as a Booster feature which only uses the maximum power for the specified time, and a gentle "bottom heat" to cut down on simmer time and save energy.
Additionally, the smooth glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not contain the nooks and crannies of conventional gas burners, which can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add style and sophistication to the modern kitchen. They have sleek, modern lines that complement other appliances and décor.
Hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions use sensors that monitor the surface of the hob for indications of excessive temperature or explosive substances, automatically cutting off the gas supply to avoid injuries and fires. This feature is crucial for gas hobs, as it reduces the chance of accidents occurring during cooking. Induction hobs also have sensors to detect when cookware is not in contact with the hob, which can stop electrical shocks.
Types
There are a variety of different kinds of hob available, so it's crucial to determine the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control, energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob that you select will impact your budget - both in the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame using natural gas. They heat pots and pans. Many home cooks opt for them because they provide instant heat and can be set to a precise temperature. Furthermore, they are not affected by power outages and work well with various cooking equipment. Gas hobs are more expensive to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Additionally, they may be more vulnerable to accidental flare-ups and fires, so it is important to be aware of the open flame and ensure that the stove is adequately protected by grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, another option in the kitchen, use electric elements under a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based products. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other types of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs but feature filament bulbs that heat the surface. They are more efficient in energy use however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of heat control, with some offering touch-based controls while others have physical knobs that you can turn.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient than other kinds of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and more evenly heat distribution. Additionally, induction hobs are easier to clean than other kinds of hobs because they have no grates or burners exposed. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and are not suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are an essential component of any kitchen, but they can be dangerous when you don't take the proper precautions. Leaving pans unattended and not cleaning them properly can lead to fires that could ruin your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be a major cause of kitchen fires.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to become damaged or even shatter, which can pose a fire risk. Fortunately, most hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure the output of heat is constant and does not exceed the limits of safety. These features safeguard the hob as well as its components, as well as making sure that there are no fire hazards on the surrounding surfaces in the kitchen.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs however, the technology is safe to use. These EMF aren't as strong as those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they generate is non-ionising.
Induction hobs are only compatible with specific types of cookware It is therefore essential to ensure that your pots and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. A simple way to test this is to hold an iron near the bottom of the pan. If it sticks, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong cookware can damage your hob or even cause a fire.
Keep children and other people away from the hob while it is in use. The surface can get extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves when you touch the handles of a metal pan because they are also extremely hot. It is essential to shut off your stove as soon as you finish use, as it can remain click here hot for some time. Follow the guidelines of the fire department and call 999 as soon as you can if there is a fire.