What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass which is shatterproof and heatproof. They also feature flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. Electric hobs are less expensive than gas ones, but they use electricity. Induction hobs can be used with almost any cookware. However, they require compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which translates to a crag, a hill, or a crag.
Folklore has it hobs are faery spirits who help with household chores. They are generally kind however they can also become a nuisance when offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It could cure whooping-cough.
A cooking device is another popular use. A hob is a metal plate that is used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of a hob will usually be flat and is adorned with cooking elements, like rings. In certain instances, the hob can be replaced by a flat rock that is used as a quoits goal.
The first recorded usage of the word "hob" is from the early sixteenth century. It was likely used at the same time as the female version hobgoblin. The word hob 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 pranks on people. They can be destructive if provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry carts on its roof, which was an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly used in the UK but they can also be found in other countries as well. They are available in many types, like gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled with the click of an electronic button, and can be used alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These features are attracting consumers. Additionally, some models feature advanced safety features, for instance locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are famous for their quick heating energy efficiency, as well as precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and they heat up only when they come into contact with cookware compatible which reduces the risk of burns. The power is shut off instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are especially useful in the home where guests and children may be present in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also 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 setting when you are required to leave the kitchen. Some models also have the bridge function that joins two cooking zones induction 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 with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
Simple and intuitive controls are offered to adjust the power settings of a hob. They are simple to read and operate. Some also have timers, presets for the most common cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a 'Booster' function that uses maximum power for the required amount of time and an easy 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and help conserve energy.
Additionally, the smooth glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not have the nooks and crevices of traditional gas burners which are prone to collecting dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add design and elegance to modern kitchens with sleek, contemporary lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions have sensors that scan the surface of the hob for signs of unusual temperatures or explosive substances, and then automatically cutting off the gas supply to prevent injuries and fires. This feature is crucial for gas hobs since it mitigates the risk of accidents occurring during cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to detect when the cookware isn't touching it. This will stop electric shocks.
Types
There are many different types of hobs to choose from. It's important to choose the best one for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control and energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of stove you select will also have an affect your budget in both the initial cost and running costs.
Gas hobs utilize natural gas to create an open flame that heats your pots and pans. Many cooks at home choose gas hobs due to their instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. Additionally, they are unaffected by power interruptions and work with various cooking equipment. However gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance, for example, cleaning the grates. Additionally, they may be more vulnerable to flare-ups that happen accidentally, so you need to be aware of the flame's presence and ensure that the stove is adequately secured with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements under glass or ceramic surfaces to heat your cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are economical for flat-based items. They take longer to cool and heat than other hobs, and are difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, however they feature a filament lamp that is used to heat the surface. They are more efficient in energy use however, they take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some have touchscreen controls while others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs use electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, leading to quicker heating and an uniform distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners exposed making them easier to clean. However, they are not as efficient at simmering and may not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen but they could be dangerous when you don't take the proper precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not cleaning them properly can result in fires that harm your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be an important cause of kitchen fires.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to break or shatter, which can pose the risk of fire. Fortunately, most hobs here come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features help safeguard the hob and its components, as well as protecting the surrounding surfaces in the kitchen.
Induction hobs are deemed safe to use although some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). The EMFs produced by these devices aren't as powerful and effective like those generated by mobile phone, and their radiation isn't ionizing.
Induction hobs only work with specific cookware types, so it's important to verify that your cookware and pans are ready for induction prior to using them. Placing a magnet near the pan's base is a straightforward method to test. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong cookware can 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 being used, as the surface may become extremely hot. Also, it is recommended to wear oven gloves whenever you are touching handles on metal pans as they can also be very hot. It's important to turn off your hob immediately after use, as it can remain hot for some time. Follow the guidelines of the fire department and dial 999 as quickly as you can in the event that there's an emergency fire.