What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital element in every kitchen. Modern ones are typically made of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They are powered by electricity however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. Induction hobs are compatible with almost any kind of cookware. However, they need compatible pans which emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is a reference to the Old English word "hol" which means pit, hole, or dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod", which means a crag, hill, or a"crag.
Folklore says that hobs are faery spirit who help with household chores. They are usually benevolent however they can also be a nuisance if they are upset. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It is believed to cure whooping-cough.
A type of cooking device is a different type of cooking device that is used extensively. Hobs are a type of metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top surface is typically flat, and it is equipped with several cooking elements like rings. In some instances, the hob can be replaced by a flat stone to allow it to function as a target for quoits.
The first recorded usage of the term "hob" dates back to the early sixteenth century. It was likely acquired at the same time as the female version hobgoblin. It is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent appearance, hobs are known to play games with people. They can be destructive when they are provoked. For instance, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place carts on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. Furthermore they can be a hassle to work with due to their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly found in the UK however, they can be found in other countries as well. They are available in many types, like electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled by the click of one button, and can be used alongside 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 are renowned for rapid 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 also deactivated immediately after the cookware has left the cooking area. These safety features can be particularly useful in homes where children or guests may be present.
Induction hob s use less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps reduce 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 areas to their lowest settings when you are required to leave the kitchen. Some models also have the bridge function that connects two cooking zones using induction into a single zone managed by a single controller for greater flexibility. The possibility of connecting multiple cooking zones allows you to cook with larger or odd-sized pots and pans.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted with simple easy-to-use controls that are easy to operate and read. Many offer timers, pre-sets to typical cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a 'Booster' function that makes use of the maximum power only for the required amount of time, and an easy 'bottom heat' to cut down on simmering times and save energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic surface on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also does not have the nooks or crannies which can accumulate dirt over time, like conventional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs have been designed to add elegance and class to the modern kitchen. They feature sleek, modern lines that complement other appliances and décor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions. They check the surface of the hob for signs of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then cut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it reduces the chance of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to know the cookware isn't touching it. This helps protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are many different types of hobs available. It's important to choose the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some features are: heat control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you choose will also impact your budget - both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame using natural gas. They heat pots and pans. They are a preferred choice for home cooks due to their instant heat and can be adjusted to provide precise temperature control. Additionally, they are unaffected by power outages and can be used with various cooking equipment. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Additionally, they could be more prone to flare-ups that happen accidentally and fires, so it is important to be mindful of the open flame and ensure the stove is adequately protected by grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements under a ceramic or glass surface to heat your cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based items. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hobs and are difficult to clean.
Halogen hob s are similar to electric plates, but they have a filament bulb which creates heat on the surface. This makes them more energy-efficient than traditional electric hobs, however, they aren't as quick to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some have control knobs that are touch-based and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, which results in faster heating and more even heat distribution. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners that are exposed, making them easier to clean. They are not as good at simmering, and they may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you don't take the necessary precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not properly cleaning them can lead to fires that could ruin your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be the main cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which could create a fire risk. Fortunately, the majority of hobs have safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems also make use of power modulation to ensure the output of heat is constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features help safeguard the hob as well as its components, as well as protecting the other kitchen surfaces.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by 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 generate is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types of cookware. It is essential to ensure that your saucepans and pots are ready for induction before you use them. Holding a magnet close to the pan's base is a quick method to test. If it is stuck the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong type of cookware could result in damaging your hob and causing a fire.
Keep children and others away from the stove when it is being used. The surface may be extremely hot. You should also use oven gloves when touching handles of the pan made of metal since they are extremely hot. Also, it is essential to switch your hob off straight after use as they can stay hot for a long time. Follow the advice of the fire department and call 999 as fast as you can in the event that there is an incident of fire.