What is a Hob?
The hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass that is shatterproof and heatproof. They also feature flat cooking zones and 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 need compatible pans which emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or a ding. The name has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which is a reference to a crag or a hill.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who perform household chores. They are generally benevolent, however they can be annoying if they are offended. One of them was the hobthrush found in Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
Another common use of the term is to refer to a kind of cooking device. Hobs are iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface is typically flat, and has several cooking elements like rings. In some cases the hob could be replaced with an elongated stone that allows it to function as a quoits target.
The first documented uses of the word 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 famous fairy tales and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent nature, hobs are known to play pranks on people. They can be destructive when provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry a cart on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. Additionally 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 found in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with just a single button, and are compatible with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth which makes them more convenient to use. These features are appealing to consumers. Additionally, some models feature advanced safety features, such as locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their speedy heating energy efficiency, as well as precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surface stays cool to the touch and only heats up when in contact with compatible cookware. This reduces the chance for burns. Additionally the power is turned off immediately when the cookware is removed from the cooking zone. These safety features are especially useful in the home, where children and guests might be in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also consume less gas than stovetops that are traditional. This helps reduce the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models have a 'Stop and Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking zones to their lowest setting when you need to leave the kitchen. Others feature a bridge function that connects two cooking zones using induction to create a large zone that is controlled by a single controller for greater flexibility. The ability to connect multiple cooking zones allows you to cook using larger or unusual-sized pans and pots.
The power settings of a hob can be adjusted using simple, intuitive controls that are easy to read and use. Many also offer timers, presets for the most common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a "Booster" feature that draws maximum power only for the amount of time and an easy 'bottom heat' to cut down on simmering times and conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic-like surface on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks and crevices that can collect dirt in time, as do traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs were designed to add elegance and class to the modern kitchen. They are sleek and have contemporary lines to complement other appliances and décor.
Sensors are used in hobs with automatic shut-off functions. They scan the surface of the hob to detect signs of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then cut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs because it reduces the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs also use sensors to determine if cookware is not in contact with the oven and prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hobs that are available, so it's important to determine the one that is suitable get more info for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control, energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you select will also affect your budget in both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs utilize natural gas to create an open flame that warms your pots and pans. Many home cooks opt for them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. Additionally, they are unaffected by power outages and can be used with a variety of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more prone to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the flame and ensure that your stove is secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements that are placed beneath the glass or ceramic surface to heat your cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based kitchen appliances. They are more difficult to cool and heat up than other types of hobs and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs look similar to electric plates, but they feature a filament bulb which is used to heat the surface. They are more energy-efficient however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs offer more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some featuring control buttons that are touch-based, while others come with physical knobs to turn.
Induction hobs use electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, which results in faster heating and more even heat distribution. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners exposed which makes them easier to clean. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and might not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen but they can be risky if you don't take precautions. Inadequately cleaned pans and unsupervised cleaning can lead to fires that can destroy your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or others. That's why Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the leading causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can cause the cookware to be damaged or shatter, which could pose a fire risk. The majority of hobs have safety features that keep track of operating temperatures to avoid overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure the output of heat is constant and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features shield the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Induction hobs are deemed safe for use although some worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs are not as strong and powerful as those generated by mobile phone and their radiation is non-ionising.
Induction hobs only work with specific types of cookware It is therefore essential to verify that your cookware and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. Holding a magnet close to the base of the pan is a quick way to test. If the pan stays it is compatible with an induction stove. The wrong type of cookware could lead to damaging your hob and causing an accident.
Keep children and others away from the cooking area while it is in use. The surface may be extremely hot. You should also use oven gloves when touching handles of the pan made of metal, as they can be extremely hot. It is essential to shut off the stove immediately after use, as it can remain hot for a while. Follow the advice of the fire department and call 999 as fast as you can in the event that there's an incident of fire.