What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential part of any kitchen. Modern ones are typically constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they require electricity. Induction hobs can be used with virtually any type of cookware. However, they require compatible pans which emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "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 the crag.
In folklore, hobs are faery spirits who perform household chores. They are generally benevolent however they can also be a nuisance if they are upset. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It is believed to cure whooping-cough.
Another popular use of the term is to refer to a type of cooking equipment. Hobs are a type of metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top surface is typically flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements, including rings. In some instances the hob could be replaced by a flat stone to allow it to serve as a quoits target.
The first recorded usage of the term "hob" dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. It was likely acquired in the same timeframe as the female counterpart hobgoblin, which is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were celebrated fairy and domestic spirit.
Despite their innocent nature hobs are known to play amusing pranks on people. They can also be destructive if they are provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to put a cart on its roof, which was a serious inconvenience for the farmer. They are also difficult to work with because of their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly found in the UK, they can be found in other countries too. They come in a variety of forms, such as electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled by the click of an electronic button, and can be utilized alongside other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These kinds of features are attracting consumers to purchase these devices. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features such as locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their speedy heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surface stays cool to touch and only gets hot when it comes into contact with cookware compatible. This reduces the chance of burns. The power is shut off instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking area. These safety features are especially useful in the home where children and guests may be present in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also consume less gas than stovetops that are traditional. This helps reduce household energy bills and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models feature the 'Stop and Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for ease of use when you have to leave the kitchen. Others feature bridge functions that joins two cooking zones using induction to create a large zone controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones that have the ability to connect multiple zones.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted with simple and intuitive controls that are simple to use and read. Many also offer timers, pre-sets to common cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a 'Booster' function that makes use of the maximum power for the necessary amount of time, and an 'underside heat' that is gentle to cut down on simmering times and conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic surface on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks and crevices that could collect dirt over time, like traditional gas stoves. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add design and elegance to the modern kitchen, with sleek, contemporary lines that blend with other appliances and décor.
Sensors are used in hobs with automatic shut-off functions. They scan the surface of the hob to detect signs of excessive heat or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs because it decreases the chance of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs also employ sensors to determine if cookware is not in contact with the oven, which can prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs that are available. It is important to select the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control and 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 the ongoing costs.
Gas hobs use natural gas to create an open flame that cooks your pans and pots. Many home cooks opt for them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a precise temperature. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a broad variety of cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more costly to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. Additionally, they could be more prone to flare-ups due to accident which is why you must be mindful of the flame's openness and ensure the stove is adequately protected with grills that are safe.
Plate hobs, a different option for cooking make use of electric elements on the ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. These hobs are cost-effective and offer good heat distribution for flat-based products. However, they are slower to warm up and cool down than other types of hobs and are difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are like electric plate hobs, but have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more efficient in energy use, but still take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are oven with hob more flexible in terms of heat control. Some feature touchscreen controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in faster heating and more even heat distribution. In addition, induction hobs are easier to clean than other types of hobs since they don't have grates or burners exposed. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and might not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are an essential component of any kitchen, but they could be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Leaving pans unattended and not properly cleaning them can result in fires that harm your kitchen and cause injury to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be an important cause of kitchen fires.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to be damaged or shatter, which could pose an fire risk. Fortunately, most hobs have safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is constant and does not exceed the limits of safety. These features help protect the hob and its components, while making sure that there are no fire hazards on the nearby surfaces in the kitchen.
Induction hobs are deemed safe for use even though some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs aren't as powerful and effective like those generated by mobile phones, and their radiation isn't ionizing.
Induction hobs only work with specific types of cookware, so it's important to verify that your cookware and pans are ready for induction prior to using them. Holding a magnet close to the base of the pan is a quick method to test. If it sticks, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Using the wrong type of cookware could lead to the hob becoming damaged and causing a fire.
It is also important to keep children and other people away from the hob while it's in use, as the surface can get extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves when touching the handles of a metal pan because they are also very hot. Finally, it's important to turn your stove off straight after use as they can stay hot for a time. If you notice a fire and you are in danger, follow the fire services instructions - call 999 and leave the premises as fast as you can.