What is a hob uk?

A hob is an essential part of any kitchen. Modern hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are less expensive than gas ones, however they use electricity. Induction hobs can be used with almost any 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 related to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or dent. The name also traces its roots to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which refers to the crag or hill.

Folklore has it best hobs are faery spirits who do household chores. They are generally kind however they can also become a nuisance when offended. One such hob was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.

Another popular use of the term is to refer to a kind of cooking device. Hobs are a type of metal plate used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top of a hob is typically flat and features several cooking elements, like rings. In certain instances the hob could be replaced by an elongated stone that allows it to serve as a target for quoits.

The earliest documented instances of the word hob date back to the early 16th century. It was probably acquired in the same time frame as the feminine form hobgoblin. It is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were famous fairy tales and domestic spirits.

Hobs are known for playing pranks, despite their benign nature. They can also be very destructive when provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place carts on its roof, causing an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They can also be difficult to use due to their speed and strength.

Although hobs are most commonly used in the UK but they can also be used in other countries as well. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled by just a single button, and can be paired with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some stoves can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth making them more convenient 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. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to the touch and are heated only when in contact with cookware compatible which reduces the risk of burns. The power is shut off immediately after the cookware has left the cooking zone. These safety features can be particularly beneficial in homes where children or guests might be present.

In addition, induction stoves use less gas than traditional stoves, which reduces the energy bills of households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.

Certain models come with a "Stop and Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking zones to their lowest setting when you need to leave the kitchen. Certain models come with a bridge feature that joins two induction zones into a large one 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 capability of connecting multiple zones.

Simple and intuitive controls are offered to alter the setting of the power of a hob. They are simple to read and operate. Many offer timers, pre-sets to common cooking functions, an automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' function that makes use of the maximum power only for the necessary amount of time and a gentle 'bottom heat' to cut down on simmering times and conserve energy.

The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also does not have the nooks and crannies which can accumulate dirt over time, as with conventional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs have been designed to add style and sophistication to modern kitchens. They are sleek and have modern lines that complement other appliances ovens and hobs uk décor.

Hobs with automatic switch-off functions make use of sensors that check the hob surface for signs of excessive temperature or explosive substances, and then automatically shutting off the gas supply to prevent injuries and fires. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it reduces the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to determine when the cookware isn't in contact with it. This can prevent electric shocks.

Types

There are a myriad of types of hobs to choose from. It is crucial to choose the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some features are: heating control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob you select will also have an impact on your budget as well as the initial cost and ongoing costs.

Gas hobs make use of natural gas to create an open flame that heats your pots and pans. Many home cooks opt for gas hobs due to their instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. Furthermore, they are not affected by power interruptions and work with many cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more expensive to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more susceptible to accidental flare-ups, so you need to be aware of the flame's presence and ensure that the stove is adequately protected by grills that are safe.

Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements that are placed beneath glass or ceramic surfaces to heat cookware. These hobs are cost-effective and offer good heat distribution for flat-based products. They take longer to cool and heat up than other hobs and aren't easy for cleaning.

Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, but they feature a filament lamp which heats the surface. They are more energy efficient however they require more time to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some feature control knobs that are touch-based while others have physical knobs.

Induction hobs are a contemporary alternative to traditional stovetops, making use of 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. Induction hobs also have fewer exposed burners and grates which makes them easier to clean. They aren't as efficient in simmering, and are not suitable for use with heavy-bottomed cooking pots.

Safety

Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you do not take the proper precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not cleaning them properly can cause fires which could damage your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. This is why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are one of the main causes of kitchen fires in the UK.

The cookware can overheat and cause it to become damaged or even shatter, posing a fire risk. Most hobs have safety systems that check operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems also make use of 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, while making sure that there are no fire hazards on the other kitchen surfaces.

Induction hobs are considered safe for use even though some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF are not as strong as those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they produce is non-ionising.

Induction hobs are only compatible with specific cookware types, so it's important to check whether your pots and pans are ready for induction prior to making use of them. A simple method to check this is to place a magnet near the base of the pan. If the pan is able to stick, it is compatible with an induction hob. The wrong type of cookware can lead to damage to your stove and possibly a fire.

Keep children and other people away from the hob while it is in use. The surface may be extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves when you touch metal pan handles because they are also extremely hot. Finally, it's essential to switch your hob off immediately after use because they may remain hot for a long time. If you notice a fire, follow the fire service advice to dial 999 and leave your home as fast as you can.