What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are usually made of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They are powered by electricity but can be cheaper than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with almost any cookware. However, they need compatible pans which emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or a ding. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod", which means a crag, a hill, or a crag.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits who perform household chores. They are generally benevolent, but can become a nuisance when offended. One of them was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
A cooking device is another popular use. A hob is a metallic plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top of a hob will usually be flat and has a variety of cooking elements, such as rings. In certain instances, the hob is replaced by a flat rock which can serve as a quoits goal.
The earliest documented instances of the term hob go back to the early 16th century. It was likely acquired in the same period 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 famous for their games, despite their harmless nature. hob and oven can be destructive if provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry a cart on its roof, causing an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. Additionally, they can be a hassle to work with due their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly used in the UK but they can also be used in other countries too. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled with the click of a button, and they can be used in conjunction with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth which makes them more convenient to use. These types of features are attracting customers to purchase these devices. Some models also have advanced safety features, such as a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and heat up only when in contact with compatible cookware which reduces the risk of burns. The power is shut off immediately after the cookware has left the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in homes where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction stoves require 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 & Go' function, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for ease of use when you need to leave the kitchen. Others feature a bridge function, which joins two cooking zones using induction to create a large zone controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. The ability to connect multiple cooking zones allows you to cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.
Simple easy-to-use controls are available to adjust the setting of the power of a hob. They are simple to read and use. Many also offer timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that uses maximum power for the required amount of time and an easy 'bottom heat' to speed up simmering and save 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 could collect dirt over time, as with conventional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with sleek, modern lines that blend with other kitchen appliances and decor.
Hobs that have automatic switch-off functions use sensors that monitor the surface of the hob for signs of excessive temperatures or explosive substances, and then automatically stopping the gas supply to prevent burns and injuries. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs, as it helps reduce the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to know when cookware isn't in contact it. This helps stop electric shocks.
Types
There are many different kinds of hobs that are that are available, so it is important to consider the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control and energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob you select will affect your budget - both in the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs utilize natural gas to create an open flame that cooks your pans and pots. Many cooks at home choose gas hobs due to their instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. They are also unaffected by power outages and can be used with a broad variety of cooking equipment. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Additionally, they may be more prone to accidental flare-ups and fires, so it is important to be aware of the open flame and ensure the stove is adequately protected by protective grilles.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements beneath a ceramic or glass surface to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based items. However, they are slower to warm up and cool down than other kinds of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, however they have a filament bulb which heats the surface. They are more efficient in energy use however they require more time to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some feature touchscreen controls, while others use physical knobs.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops, making use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, resulting faster heating and a more evenly distributed heat. Additionally induction hobs are simpler to clean than other kinds of hobs because they have no grates or burners that are exposed. However, they are not as efficient in simmering and are not suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you fail to take the proper precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning can lead to fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. This is why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the leading causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating could cause damage or shatter cookware, which can cause fire hazards. Fortunately, the majority of hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure the output of heat is consistent and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features shield the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Induction hobs are considered safe for use, even though some people worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs aren't as strong and powerful like those generated by mobile phone, and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs work only with certain types cookware. It is essential to make sure that your saucepans and pots are ready for induction before you use them. Holding a magnet close to 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 can lead to the hob becoming damaged and causing a fire.
Be sure to keep children and other guests away from the cooking area when it is in use. The surface could be extremely hot. You should also use oven gloves to avoid touching the handles of the pan made of metal, as they can be extremely hot. It is also important to turn your stove off immediately after use since they may remain hot for a time. If you notice a fire then follow the fire department's advice - to call 999 and leave the premises as soon as you can.