10 Quick Tips For Hobs
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern ones are typically constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They run on electricity, but can be cheaper than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with almost any kind of cookware. However, they need compatible pans which emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to the Old English word "hol" which means pit, hole or a dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod" which means a crag, a hill or a the crag.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits that do domestic chores. They are usually kind, but they can also be annoying if they are offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It is believed to cure whooping-cough.
Another popular usage of the term is to refer to a specific type of cooking equipment. Hobs are iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface is typically flat, and it is equipped with several cooking elements, including rings. In certain instances, the hob can be replaced by a flat rock that is used as a goal for quoits.
The earliest documented instances of the term hob date back to the early 16th century. It was probably acquired in the same timeframe as the female counterpart hobgoblin. It originates from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were well-known fairytales and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent appearance, hobs are known to play pranks on people. They can also be very destructive when they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire for instance could even place a cart on its roof. This was a huge problem for the farmer. They are also difficult to use due to their speed and strength.
While hobs are mostly used in the UK, they can be used in other countries as well. They come in a variety of forms, such as electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled by one button and can be paired together 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. Additionally, some models feature advanced security features, like locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for rapid 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 compatible cookware. This reduces the chance of burns. Furthermore, the power is deactivated immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking area. These safety features can be particularly beneficial in homes where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction hobs consume less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a 'Stop & Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for ease of use when you must leave the kitchen. Others feature bridge functions that connects two cooking zones using induction into a single zone controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. You can also use larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
Simple, intuitive controls are available to adjust the power settings of a stove. They are simple to read and operate. Many offer timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that makes use of the maximum power for the required amount of time and an 'underside heat' that is gentle to reduce simmering times and save energy.
oven and hob , glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks or crannies that could collect dirt over time, like conventional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with sleek, modern lines that blend with other appliances and decor.
hobs and ovens with automatic switch-off functions have sensors that scan the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat or explosive substances, then automatically cutting off the gas supply to prevent burns and injuries. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it reduces the chance of accidents occurring during cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to determine when the cookware isn't in contact with it. This will prevent electric shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hobs that are that are available, so it is important to consider which one is right for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you select will also have an impact on your budget in both the initial cost and running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame using natural gas. They heat pans and pots. Many home cooks choose them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used with many cooking appliances. However gas hobs can be more expensive to run and require regular maintenance for example, cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more prone to flare-ups that happen accidentally and fires, so it is important to be mindful of the open flame and ensure that the stove is adequately secured with grills that are safe.
Plate hobs, a different option for cooking make use of electric elements on a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based items. However, they are slower to warm up and cool down than other types of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more energy efficient however, they take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control, with some having touchscreen controls, while others have physical knobs that you can turn.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops, employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient, resulting faster heating as well as a more uniform distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have fewer exposed burners and grates, making them easier to clean. They aren't as efficient at simmering, and they may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you don't take the proper precautions. Unsupervised pans and inadvertent cleaning can lead to fires that can destroy your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be an important cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can cause the cookware to break or shatter, posing a fire risk. Fortunately, most hobs have safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure the heat output is consistent and does not exceed the limits of safety. These features protect the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Induction hobs are safe for use although some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs are not as powerful and strong like those generated by mobile phone, and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types of cookware So it's essential to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. Holding a magnet close to the pan's base is a simple method to test. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong type of cookware could damage your hob or even cause a fire.
Keep children and others away from the stove while it is in use. The surface may become extremely hot. It is also recommended to use oven gloves to avoid touching the metal pan handles because they can be extremely hot. It is also important to turn your stove off straight after use as they may remain hot for a time. Follow the guidelines of the fire service and call 999 as soon as you can in the event that there's an incident of fire.