Are You In Search Of Inspiration? Check Out Hobs
Are You In Search Of Inspiration? Check Out Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They run on electricity, however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. They can also be used with nearly any type of cookware however, induction hobs require compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or a dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod" which translates to a crag, hill, or a"crag.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits who perform household chores. They are generally kind however they can also be a nuisance if they are upset. One such hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
A type of cooking device is another popular use. A hob is an iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob is typically flat and has a variety of cooking elements, like rings. In some instances, the hob is replaced by an elongated rock that can be used as a quoits goal.
The earliest documented instances of the word hob date back to the early 16th century. It was likely taken over as the female form, hobgoblin. This is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their benign nature hobs can play games with people. They can also be very destructive if they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example, was able put a cart onto its roof. This caused a huge inconvenience to the farmer. They can also be difficult to work with because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly used in the UK they can also be used in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with a single button and can be paired with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These features are appealing to consumers. Furthermore, some models come with advanced safety features, for instance the child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for their rapid heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to the touch and are heated only when they are in contact with compatible cookware, which minimizes the risk of burning. The power is shut off immediately after the cookware has left the cooking area. These safety features are particularly useful in the home where children and guests might be in the kitchen.
Induction hobs use less gas than stovetops that are traditional. This helps lower household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models have a 'Stop & Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking areas to their lowest settings when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models have bridge functions that connects two induction cooking zones to create a large zone controlled by a single controller for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones that have the capability of connecting multiple zones.
Simple and intuitive controls are offered to alter the setting of the power of a hob. They are simple to read and operate. Many offer timers, presets for the most common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a 'Booster' function that makes use of the maximum power for the necessary amount of time and a gentle 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and conserve energy.
Additionally, the smooth glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not contain the nooks and crannies of traditional gas burners which are prone to collecting dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs were designed to add sophistication and style to modern kitchens. They feature sleek, modern lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs with automatic shut-off functions. They scan the surface of the hob to detect signs of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it reduces the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also use sensors to detect when cookware isn't in contact with the oven and stop electrical shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs that are available. It's important to choose the best one for your kitchen. Some features are: heating control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of stove you select will also impact your budget - both in the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame using natural gas. This heats pots and pans. They are a preferred choice for many cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a broad range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more costly to run and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more prone to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the open flame and ensure that the stove is adequately protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs, another option for kitchens make use of electric elements on the ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based kitchen appliances. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hobs, and they can be hob uk difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, but they feature a filament lamp that heats the surface. They are more energy-efficient, but still take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some featuring control buttons that are touch-based, while others come with physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs use electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating and a more even distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners exposed which makes them easier to clean. They are not as good at simmering, and they are not suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs are an essential component of any kitchen, but they can be dangerous when you don't take the proper precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not cleaning them properly can cause fires which could harm your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. That's why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the main causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can cause damage to or break cookware, which could cause fire hazards. Most hobs have safety systems that check operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems use power modulation to ensure that heat output remains constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features safeguard the hob as well as its components, while making sure that there are no fire hazards on the other kitchen surfaces.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs however, the technology is safe to use. These EMF are not as powerful as those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they produce is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types cookware. It is important to make sure that your pots and saucepans are ready for induction before you begin using them. By placing a magnet on the base of the pan is a quick method to test. If the pan stays it is compatible with an induction stove. A cookware that is not designed for your needs could damage your hob or cause a fire.
It is also essential to ensure that children and other people stay away from the cooking area when it is in use, since the surface may become extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves when you touch the handles of a metal pan because they can be extremely hot. It is essential to shut off your stove as soon as you finish use, as it can remain hot for a while. If a fire occurs, follow the fire service instructions - call 911 and leave your house as fast as you can.