Searching For Inspiration? Look Up Hobs

What is a Hob? The hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they require electricity. Induction hobs are compatible with almost any kind of cookware. However, they require compatible pans which emit a magnetic field. Origin Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is a reference to the Old English word “hol” and refers to a hole, pit, or dent. The name also traces its roots to the Anglo-Saxon word “hod” which refers to a crag or a hill. In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits who perform household chores. They are usually benevolent but can become annoying if they are offended. One of these hobs was Hobthrush, which was found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It is believed to cure whooping-cough. A cooking device is a different type of cooking device that is used extensively. Hobs are a type of metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. oven and hob is typically flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements including rings. In some cases the hob may be replaced by a flat stone to allow it to be used as a target for quoits. The earliest documented instances of the term hob date to the 16th century. It is likely that it was acquired during the same timeframe as the corresponding female form, hobgoblin, which originates from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were celebrated fairy and domestic spirit. Despite their innocent nature hobs can play pranks on people. They can be destructive when provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place carts on its roof, which was an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use because of their speed and strength. Although hobs are mainly used in the UK they can also be used in other countries. Gas and electric hobs are available. They can be controlled by a single button and are compatible 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. Certain models also come with advanced safety features such as a lock for children. Functions Induction hobs are famous for their quick heating and energy efficiency as well as their precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and are heated only when they come into contact with compatible cookware, which minimizes the risk of burning. The power is also shut off immediately after the cookware has left the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly beneficial in homes, where children and guests might be in the kitchen. In addition, induction hobs require less gas than traditional stoves, which reduces the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households. Certain models have a 'Stop & Go' function that instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for convenience when you have to leave the kitchen. Certain models come with a bridge feature that joins two induction zones into one large zone that is controlled by a single control. This allows for greater flexibility. The possibility of connecting multiple cooking zones allows you to cook with larger or odd-sized pots and pans. The power settings on a hob can be adjusted using simple and intuitive controls that are simple to use and read. Many offer timers, pre-sets to common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a “Booster” function that uses maximum power for the necessary amount of time, and an 'underside heat' that is gentle to cut down on simmering times and help conserve energy. Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electronic hob is easy to clean and does not contain the nooks and crannies of conventional gas burners, which can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring style and sophistication to modern kitchens with sleek, contemporary designs that match other kitchen appliances and decor. Sensors are employed 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 cut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs since it reduces the chance of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also employ sensors to determine if cookware is not in contact with the oven and prevent electrical shocks. Types There are a variety of different kinds of hobs that are available, so it's important to think about which one is best suited to your kitchen. Some features are: heat control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of hob you choose will also affect your budget, both the initial cost as well as running costs. Gas hobs produce an open flame with natural gas. This heats pots and pans. Many home cooks choose gas hobs due to their instant heat and can be set to a precise temperature. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a broad range of cooking vessels. However gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Additionally, they may be more vulnerable to flare-ups that happen accidentally and fires, so it is important to be aware of the flame's presence and ensure that the stove is adequately protected with grills that are safe. Plate hobs, another option for kitchens, use electric elements under a ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. These hobs are economical and offer good heat distribution for flat-based items. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other types of hobs and are difficult to clean. Halogen hobs look similar to electric plates, however they feature a filament bulb which is used to heat the surface. This makes them more energy efficient than traditional electric hobs, but they are still not as quick to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of heat control, with some having touch-based controls while others have physical knobs to turn. Induction hobs use electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating as well as a more even 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 might not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom. Safety Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you don't make the necessary precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not properly cleaning them can result in fires that damage your kitchen and cause injury to you or others. That's why Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the most common causes of kitchen fires in the UK. Overheating can cause damage to or break cookware, which could present a fire hazard. Many hobs come with safety systems that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is constant and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features protect the hob and its components, while protecting the surrounding surfaces in the kitchen. While some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. These EMFs aren't as powerful and effective as those produced by mobile phone and their radiation isn't ionizing. Induction hobs work only with certain types cookware. It is essential to ensure that your pots and saucepans are ready for induction before you use them. A simple method to test this is to place an iron near the bottom of the pan. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Using the wrong type of cookware can lead to damage to your stove and possibly an explosion. Keep children and others away from the cooking area when it is being used. The surface could become extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves whenever you are touching metal pan handles because they can be very hot. It is also essential to switch your hob off straight after use as they may remain hot for a while. Follow the advice of the fire service and dial 999 as quickly as you can if there's an incident of fire.