The hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They run on electricity, however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with almost any cookware. However, they require 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 Old English "hol", which means pit, hole or a dent. The name also traces its roots to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means a crag or hill.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are usually benevolent, but can be a nuisance if they are upset. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It was able to treat whooping cough.
Another popular usage of the term is to refer to a type of cooking equipment. A hob is a metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top surface of a hob will usually be flat and is adorned with cooking elements, like rings. In certain instances, the hob can be replaced by a flat rock that is used as a goal for quoits.
The first recorded usage of the term "hob" dates back to the early sixteenth century. It was likely taken over as the female version hobgoblin. This originates from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent nature hobs are known to play games with people. They can also be destructive when they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire for instance was able to put a cart onto its roof. This was a major inconvenience to the farmer. Furthermore they can be a pain to work with due their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mainly used in the UK they can also be used in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with the press of one button, and can be used in conjunction with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are 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 locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their quick heating energy efficiency, as well as precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and they heat up only when they are in 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 or guests may be present.
Induction hobs use less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps lower household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models have a 'Stop and Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking areas to their lowest settings when you are required to leave the kitchen. Others feature bridge functions that connects two cooking zones using induction into a single zone managed by a single control for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pans and pots or odd-sized ones, with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
The power settings of a hob can be adjusted with simple, intuitive controls that are simple to use and read. Many also offer timers, presets for the most common cooking functions, an automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' feature that draws maximum power for the amount of time, and a gentle 'bottom heat' to cut down on simmering times and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic-like surface on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also does not have the nooks and crevices that can collect dirt over time, like traditional gas stoves. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring design and elegance to the modern kitchen, with sleek, modern lines that blend with other kitchen appliances and decor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs with 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 or fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs as it mitigates the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs utilize sensors to know when the cookware isn't in contact with it. This will prevent electric shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs that are available. It is important to select the right one for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control, energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob you choose will also affect your budget - both in the initial cost as well as the ongoing costs.
Gas hobs make use of natural gas to create an open flame that cooks your pans and pots. They are a popular option for many home cooks due to their instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used with many cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more susceptible to flare-ups due to accident, so you need to be mindful of the flame's openness and ensure that the stove is adequately protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs, a different option for kitchens employs electric elements beneath a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based items. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other types of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plate hobs but feature filament bulbs that heat the surface. They are more energy-efficient, but still take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some are equipped with touch-based controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops using electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other kinds of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners exposed, making them easier to clean. They are not as good at simmering, and they may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed cooking pots.
Safety
Hobs are an essential part of any kitchen but they can be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not cleaning them properly can lead to fires that could ruin your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are the main cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which can cause fire hazards. Fortunately, many hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems use power modulation as well to ensure that the heat output is constant and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob and its components, as well as protecting the nearby surfaces in the kitchen.
Induction hobs are deemed safe to use although some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs are not as powerful and effective like those generated by mobile phone, and their radiation is non-ionising.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types cookware. It is essential to ensure that your saucepans and pots are ready for induction before you begin using them. By placing a magnet on the pan's base is a simple method to test. If the pan stays to the magnet, it's compatible with an induction cooker. The wrong cookware could damage your hob or cause fire.
It is also important to keep children and other persons away from the hob while it's in use, as the surface can get extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves whenever you are touching handles on metal pans because they are also very hot. It is essential to shut off your hob immediately after use, as it may remain hot for a period of time. If a fire occurs, follow the fire service instructions - call 999 and leave your home as fast as you can.
