Which Ovens Hobs Are Right For You?
Ovens hobs are a vital kitchen appliance but it can be a challenge to determine which one is suitable for you. If you're in search of electric, gas or induction hobs, we'll help you to make the right choice.
Available in a variety of styles such as induction and ceramic domino hobs give you the flexibility of cooking. You can choose between one or two heat zones, and mix your model to your preferences, for example a ceramic section with an additional gas section.
Gas
A gas hob is a vital kitchen appliance that offers many benefits to both casual and professional cooks alike. This kind of stove is known for its speed and versatility. It uses propane or natural gas to create a flame that is used to heat pots and pans. The design of a gas stove typically features several burners, that can be controlled via a knob that allows you to adjust the flame's intensity and temperature. Gas hobs are an excellent choice for cooking that requires delicate techniques such as simmering or boiling.
Additionally, a gas hob's elegant design contributes to an elegant kitchen design and its flat surface makes it simple to clean. Gas hobs are great for counters with small spaces since they do not protrude. However, one of the major drawbacks of a gas hob is that it requires access to an LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) pipeline and a dedicated fuel source that can add costs.
Gas stoves are made with safety in mind as a priority. They come with flame failure devices that automatically cut off the gas supply if the flame ceases to burn. This feature is important for households with pets or young children, as it protects against carbon monoxide poisoning as well as fire. Similarly, modern hobs are equipped with automatic shut-off valves to prevent the gas from flowing in the event of an unexpected electrical short circuit or surge.
If you are thinking of purchasing a gas hob, make sure to speak with a qualified Gas Safe Registered fitter to ensure that your installation process is carried out correctly and that your stove is in compliance with all safety guidelines. If you attempt to repair or install a gas hob yourself could cause fire hazards, leaks and health hazards.
This is why it is essential to think about the long-term costs of a kitchen appliance prior to making a final purchase. For instance, an electric hob may be more efficient than a gas hob, since it can transfer heat directly to your cookware. In addition, many electricity-based hobs have additional features like automatic shut-off and pan detection that make them more secure than other hobs.
Induction
Induction cooktops use electromagnetism rather than conduction to heat the pan. This lets induction cooktops get hotter faster, more precisely and efficiently. This also means less energy is wasted because heat is transferred through the magnetic field that surrounds your cooktop instead of an energized resistance coil.
It can be a challenge to master induction stoves initially. They require a specific type of cookware that's compatible with the heating technology: flat-bottomed ferrromagnetic cookware and pots. Most modern kitchenware is compatible, but older pans and pots might not unless you use a induction interface disk. The interface disk sits on top of the existing cookware and creates an elongated magnetic surface that allows the burner to communicate with it. Induction cooktops are not as hot to your hands like traditional electrical or gas cooktops, but they still could cause burns to your hands when you are too long on the surface.
Another drawback is that the cooking surface can't turn on if your cookware isn't sitting on it, which is a safety feature to help keep fires from igniting and burning. Induction burners cannot be accidentally turned on when the pan is cooling. This is not possible with a gas or electric stove.
The good aspect is that induction cookers do not release harmful pollutants into the air when they're turned off, like nitrous oxides, carbon monoxide and formaldehyde. These pollutants can cause respiratory problems. Induction cookers are emissions-free when paired with renewable energy sources.
The only downside is that induction cooktops may emit a buzzing noise. This noise is more noticeable when temperatures are higher and may cause interference with digital meat thermometers. However you can lessen it by using large pans with flat bottoms. The hum isn't harmful, but some cooks find it irritating. It is recommended to test an induction range before making a purchase and that's why a lot of appliance stores offer loaners or showroom kitchens where you can test the cooktops.
Ceramic
Electric ceramic cookers are the most common type of cooker found in UK kitchens. They are set flush with the worktop and are covered in glass to give them a sleek modern appearance. They are also easy-to-clean. They have a flat surface therefore there are no crevices where food can be stuck. A simple wipe is all you need. The ovens are fitted with a range of safety features, including hot indicators that indicate that the ovens are still hot and locks that stop children from using the oven.
The pan or cookware is heated electronically by passing electricity through the coiled elements underneath the tempered glass. They are not as energy efficient as induction or gas however they are a cost-effective and convenient way to cook. They can be prone to scratching if pots and pans are dragged across the surface but they do have shatterproof safety glass.
The flat surface of the ceramic oven's hob makes it simple to heat up and cool down quickly as the heat is transferred through the cookware, not the entire hob. This makes them easier to use in a busy home. The ceramic hobs also tend to be a little more expensive than the other kinds but they are well worth it for the style and convenience they offer.
You should choose a hob that is suited to your cooking style and lifestyle. Gas or induction hobs might be the best choice for those who require speed, precision, and energy efficiency. Before deciding on the type of hob you want to buy, it is important to take into consideration your budget and the cookware you currently have. After you've done this then you can start looking for the ideal new hob that is compatible with your oven. Our experts is ready to answer any questions you may have. You can contact us by phone or email or visit one of our stores. We offer a large selection of products to help you design your dream kitchen.
Halogen
It's extremely satisfying to bring a halogen stove in your kitchen and watch your food cook quickly under its glowing lid. It's a form of dry-heat cooking. This means that it heats the food or air to high temperatures. A halogen oven can reach these temperatures quicker than conventional ovens, often in a matter of minutes.
They are also more responsive to temperature variations, making them ideal for all types of cooking. They are great for frying, roasting and baking however, they can also be used to steam and steam. Some models even have an infrared grill without the smoke or mess that comes with charcoal.
As well as being relatively quick to heat up the oven, a halogen one is also much faster than a conventional oven at reaching the temperature at which it is most efficient and the power will shut off once it reaches the temperature, so there's no danger of overheating. The lid is also designed to hold heat efficiently, distributing it evenly and evenly browning food.
Halogen ovens are typically less expensive than a traditional oven and can be purchased for less than PS40. They can be used for everything from frying to steaming, and some models even have a rotisserie function. A lot of models come with glass dishes, which allows you to check the food more easily and also prevents it from burning.
Halogen ovens have some disadvantages. For instance bulbs might need to be changed after a certain period of time. Some models also come with flimsy stands for the element and these are easily knocked over by pets or children.
Halogen ovens may also produce certain harmful byproducts during heating. These are called 'process contaminants' and include acrylamide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs) which can cause cancer in humans. However, if you are mindful to follow the guidelines and use the oven with a non-stick surface, you can reduce the risk significantly. These risks are usually highlighted on the warning label of Halogen ovens. It is important to read it carefully prior to using this appliance.