Types of Ovens

The hob is at the heart of every kitchen, whether you are cooking a kettle or roasting a chicken. They come in a variety of sizes and styles and there are various hob types to pick from including gas, electric, ceramic and domino.

Electric hobs have smooth surfaces and are easy to clean, but take some time to heat up or cool down. They can only be used with flat-bottomed pans and may include heat indicators.

Ceramic Hobs

Ceramic hobs have revolutionized the cooking process, providing modern and sleek design while remaining simple to use. They work with heating elements that are placed under the tempered glass surface to distribute heat quickly and evenly across your cookware. Ceramic hobs can be found in a range of styles ranging from traditional gas burners to more modern electric zones, with the majority featuring a black glazed finish that is hard-wearing and resistant to scratches and chips.

They have flat, smooth surfaces that are easy to clean. You can use any household cleaner. They don't feature open flames, making them a safer option for those with children or elderly relatives living in the house. Typically, they feature the option of a touch or rotary control to increase safety, as well as an indicator for residual heat that warns you when an area remains hot even after the pan has been removed from the Best Oven.

They cost more than an electric hob, however, they are less expensive than induction models. They are an ideal choice for those who do not have gas at their home. Similar to induction models, they can be more efficient if you use cookware with flat bottoms that increase the surface area of contact with elements. Pans and pots that are not EXACTLY the same size as the element are not recognized by the heating system, and therefore won't function properly.

It is crucial to employ a certified electrician install your ceramic hob because working with electricity can be potentially dangerous if it's not done correctly. In the event that you don't have your ceramic stove installed by a professional could invalidate the warranty and create fire hazards in the future. It's a small cost to pay for peace of mind and knowing that your new cooktop is safe for use.

Gas Hobs

Gas hobs or gas cooktops are powered by liquefied petroleum gaz (LPG). They are usually built into kitchen units or countertops. It comprises a number of burners which can be lit by hand using a match or lighter and controlled with knobs that let you regulate the temperature during cooking. The primary benefit of gas hobs is that they offer instant heat as opposed to electric models and can be used for all kinds of cooking, from simmering to boiling to frying or sauteing.

The downsides of gas hobs is that they require an air supply and gas system to function, making them more expensive to install than electric models and they might not be as energy-efficient as induction hobs. They also pose a security risk as they are fueled by flammable gases and need regular maintenance to identify gas leaks.

Induction hobs are a popular option. They utilize electromagnetic technology to heat directly your pans. This allows them to boil water faster than gas models and also provide precise temperature control. However, induction hobs can only work with induction-compatible pans and are a bit more expensive than other types of hobs.

Other options include a glass ceramic hob, which has an elegant appearance and is easy to wipe clean. It is available on both induction and electric models, and is the ideal choice for those who want an elegant, modern look to their kitchen. It's important to remember that this type of model can get extremely hot and take a lot longer to heat and cool than electric or gas models.

Freestanding gas stoves or gas hobs are a more traditional option that is ideal for kitchens that are large and open-plan layouts in which they are a focal point. It requires a dedicated space and is typically fitted by a professional who will be able to handle the installation process, which entails handling gas connections that can present dangers if not handled properly.

Hobs induction

Induction hobs are a popular option for those looking for a sleek and efficient method to cook. They use electromagnetic induction to heat the pans. Under the glass surface are coils that when a suitable pan is placed on top of them, emit a magnetic field that creates an electrical current to be pushed through the base of the pan. This produces heat that rapidly warms the food inside the pan, while the cooktop remains cool.

Induction hobs are also known for being more efficient in energy use than traditional electric or gas models. They only heat the area in which the pan is set which helps reduce waste and energy costs. Many induction hobs feature a safety feature that shuts the hob off when there isn't a pan or if it is removed. This helps reduce the amount of energy wasted.

Induction models, like gas hobs, have various types of controls including slide, dial, and touchscreen controls. The slider control is similar to a standard knob on a cooker, and lets you alter the power level with a simple movement. Dial controls are similar to standard knobs and come with a large dial that is able to be rotated to select the desired setting. Touchscreen hobs, which are usually found on more expensive induction models with advanced features, are a different option. Hobs with touchscreens feature a digital display that is easy to read and adjust.

In addition to the tech, induction hobs can be fitted with built-in extractors which work in conjunction with the hood to draw steam and smoke from the kitchen, and also prevent condensation and mould. They can be operated separately from the rest and are usually activated by the use of a sensor or a button. They can also be programmed to automatically switch on when the pan is placed over a cooking area.

The biggest drawback of induction hobs is that they require a particular type of cookware to function. It is required for the bottom of the pan to have a magnetized base to generate the electromagnetic process. However, this is not guaranteed to work with all models. Cast iron, stainless steel with a magnetized base, and some nonstick pans can all be used with induction hobs. However, it is recommended to always consult with the manufacturer to confirm that your pan is compatible before buying the model.

Domino Hobs

Domino hobs are ideal for those with a smaller kitchen, but want the flexibility to experiment with different cooking styles. With two zone ceramic, gas and induction domino hobs available and even the option of a griddle from Siemens, you can mix and combine to create a modular cooking area that is suited to your needs.

The simplest of hob types Solid plate hobs utilize electric elements that are that are heated by sealed metal plates, which then heat your cookware. These are inexpensive, easy to use and durable. However, they can take a while to cool down and heat down and are more expensive to operate than other hob models.

A popular alternative to solid plate hobs is the halogen hob, that uses a row glowing halogen bulbs set on a glass ceramic surface to generate heat. The bulbs rapidly light up and transfer heat directly to the pan when activated, making this kind of hob a quick and responsive choice. Halogen hobs are not as efficient in energy use and are susceptible to damage by scraping the surface.

Induction hobs are a new and becoming more popular type of stove, using electromagnetic technology to heat the cooking zones rather than the surface. They are more affordable and eco-friendly than other types of hobs, but they can be more expensive than gas and require specific cookware compatible with induction.

Ceramic hobs with their flat design that blends seamlessly with your worktop, are a stylish and modern option. They can add a touch of fluidity to the cooking area. They are also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean surface that requires no special cleaning products. Some models come with a stylish frameless design, and the ability to have dials or touch controls, depending on your preference.

When purchasing a new stove, make sure you look for features such as overheat protection. This shuts off the heating element when it reaches a dangerous temperature. You should also check for residual heat indicators, which alert you if your hob is hot to the contact and could cause burns. Finally, a pause function lets you temporarily disable all active cooking zones and can be useful if you need to leave the kitchen for a while.