Why You'll Want To Learn More About Hobs
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are less expensive than gas ones, however they require electricity. They also work with almost all cookware brands however, induction hobs require compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is masculine English 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 ding. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which translates to the word "crag" or hill or a crag.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are generally benevolent, however they can be annoying if they are offended. One example of a hob was the hobthrush found in Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking appliance is another popular use. Hobs are a type of metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top of a hob is typically flat and has a variety of cooking elements, such as rings. In some instances, the hob is replaced by an elongated rock which can serve as a quoits goal.
The earliest attested uses of the term hob date back to the early 16th century. It was likely taken over as the female form hobgoblin. The word hob is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are well-known for playing pranks, despite their benign nature. They can be destructive when they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire for instance, was able bring a cart up its roof. This was a huge inconvenience to the farmer. Furthermore they can be a hassle to work with due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mainly found in the UK they are also used in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with one button and can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These kinds of features are attracting buyers to buy these devices. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features like locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their speedy heating energy efficiency, as well as precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and heat up only when they are in contact with cookware that is compatible which reduces the risk of burning. Additionally, the power is deactivated immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in the home, where children and guests may be present in the kitchen.
In addition, induction hobs consume less gas than traditional stoves, which reduces household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models come with the 'Stop and Go' function, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for convenience when you must leave the kitchen. Certain models come with bridge features that connect two induction zones into one large zone that is controlled by one control. This gives you more flexibility. The ability to connect multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook using larger or unusual-sized pans and pots.
Simple easy-to-use controls are available to adjust the power settings of a stove. They are easy to read and use. A lot of hobs have timers, presets for common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs and a Booster function that only utilizes maximum power for the needed time, and a soft "bottom heat" to reduce simmering time and save energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not have the nooks and crannies of traditional gas burners which are prone to collecting dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs were designed to add sophistication and style to the modern kitchen. They are sleek and have modern lines that blend well with other kitchen appliances and decor.
Hobs with automatic switch-off functions have sensors that scan the hob surface for signs of unusual temperature or explosive substances, automatically cutting off the gas supply to avoid burns and injuries. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs, as it reduces the chance of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to detect when the cookware isn't in contact with it. This helps stop electric shocks.
Types
There are many different types of hobs to choose from. It's important to choose the right one for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control, energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob you select will also affect the cost of your kitchen in both the initial cost and running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame using natural gas. They heat pots and pans. Many home cooks opt for them because they provide instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a wide variety of cooking equipment. Gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Additionally, they could be more susceptible to flare-ups due to accident, so you need to be aware of the open flame and ensure the stove is adequately secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, another option for kitchens, use electric elements under a ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based items. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other types of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more energy-efficient, but still take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some feature control knobs that are touch-based and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating and a more uniform distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners that are exposed making them easier to clean. However, hobs and ovens are not as efficient in simmering and are not suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are a risky part of your kitchen if you do not take the necessary precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning can cause fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are the main cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can damage or even shatter cookware, which could cause fire hazards. Many hobs come with safety systems that check operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems utilize power modulation as well to ensure that heat output remains constant and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob and its components, while preventing fire hazards to nearby surfaces in the kitchen.
Induction hobs are considered safe for use, even though some people worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF are not as powerful as those generated by mobile phones and the radiation they emit is non-ionising.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types of cookware So it's essential to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready before using them. By placing a magnet on the base of the pan is a simple way to test. If the pan is able to stick it is compatible with an induction cooker. The wrong type of cookware could cause damage to your stove or cause a fire.
It is also essential to keep children and other people away from the hob while it's in use, as the surface can get extremely hot. Also, it is recommended to wear oven gloves whenever you are touching handles on metal pans because they are also very hot. Also, it is crucial to turn your oven off straight after use as they can remain hot for a while. Follow the instructions of the fire service and call 999 as fast as you can if there's an emergency fire.