What is a Hob?
A hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass, which is heatproof and shatterproof. They also have flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. They run on electricity, but are less expensive than gas hobs. They can also be used with nearly all cookware brands, but induction hobs require compatible pans that generate a magnetic field.
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" and refers to a hole, pit or a dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which translates to a crag, hill or a"crag.
Folklore suggests that hobs are faery spirit who perform household chores. They are generally kind but they can be a nuisance if they are upset. One such hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking appliance is another common use. A hob is an iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob is typically flat and is adorned with cooking elements, including rings. In some cases the hob could be replaced with an elongated stone that allows it to function as a quoits target.
The first recorded usage of the word "hob" is from the 16th century in the early part of the century. It was probably acquired at the same time as the female form, hobgoblin. This is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their benign nature, hobs are known to play pranks on people. They can be destructive when provoked. For example, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to put a cart on its roof, which was an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. Moreover, they can be a hassle to work with due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly used in the UK they can also be used in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled by just a single button, and can be used with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some hobs can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These types of features are enticed buyers to buy these devices. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features like a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their speedy heating and energy efficiency as well as their precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and only heats up when in contact with compatible cookware. This minimizes the risk of burns. The power is also deactivated immediately when cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in homes where children or guests may be present.
Induction hobs also use less gas than stovetops that are traditional. This can help reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a 'Stop & Go' function that instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for ease of use when you have to leave the kitchen. Certain models come with a bridge feature that joins two induction zones into one large zone controlled by one control. This allows for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pans and pots or odd-sized ones with the ability to connect multiple zones.
Simple and intuitive controls are offered to alter the setting of the power of a hob. They are easy to read and use. Many offer timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, an automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' function that uses maximum power only for the required amount of time, and an easy 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic surface on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also does not have the nooks and crevices that could collect dirt over time, as with traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs have been designed to add style and sophistication to the modern kitchen. They have sleek, modern lines that blend well with other kitchen appliances and decor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs that have automatic shut-off functions. They check the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs as it decreases the chance of accidents when cooking. Induction hobs utilize sensors to know the cookware isn't touching it. This will stop electric shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hobs that are available, so it is important to determine which one is best suited to your kitchen. Some features are: heating control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of stove you choose will also affect the cost of your kitchen, both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame by using natural gas. This heats pots and pans. They are a preferred choice for many home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a broad variety of cooking equipment. However gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more susceptible than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the flame, and make sure the stove is properly protected by grills with safety.
Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements beneath a ceramic or glass surface to heat cookware. These hobs oven hob are cost-effective and offer good heat distribution for flat-based items. However, they take longer to warm up and cool down than other types of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs look similar to electric plates, but they have a filament bulb that creates heat on the surface. They are more efficient in energy use, but still take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control, with some having touch-based controls while others have physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, resulting faster heating as well as a more evenly distributed heat. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners exposed, making them easier to clean. However, they aren't as efficient at simmering and might not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you fail to take the necessary precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning could cause fires that can damage your kitchen or cause harm to you or anyone else. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be an important cause of kitchen fires.
The cookware can overheat and cause it to be damaged or shatter, which could pose the risk of fire. The majority of hobs have safety features that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems utilize power modulation as well to ensure that the heat output remains constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features safeguard the hob as well as its components, while making sure that there are no fire hazards on the other kitchen surfaces.
Induction hobs are safe for use although some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF are not as powerful as those generated by mobile phones and the radiation they generate is not ionizing.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types of cookware. It is important to make sure that your cookware and pots are induction ready before you begin using them. Holding a magnet close to the pan's base is a simple way to test. If the pan stays, it is compatible with an induction stove. The wrong type of cookware can lead to damaging your hob and causing an accident.
Be sure to keep children and other guests away from the stove when it is being used. The surface may be extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves whenever you are touching metal pan handles as they can also be very hot. Also, it is essential to switch your hob off immediately after use since they can remain hot for a long time. Follow the instructions of the fire service and call 999 as soon as you can in the event that there's an incident of fire.