What is a Hob?
The hob is an essential part of every kitchen. Modern hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They run on electricity, but can be cheaper than gas hobs. Induction hobs are compatible with almost any kind of cookware. However, they require compatible pans which emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is akin to the Old English word "hol" and refers to a hole, pit, or dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod" which translates to a crag, a hill or a crag.
Folklore says hobs are faery spirits who perform household chores. They are generally benevolent, however they can be an issue if they are upset. One such hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
oven hob of cooking device is another common use. Hobs are iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface is usually flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements like rings. In some instances, the hob is replaced by flat rocks which can serve as a quoits goal.
The earliest documented instances of the term hob go back to the early 16th century. It was probably 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 well-known for playing Pranks, despite their innocent nature. They can also be very destructive if they are provoked. For example, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place a cart on its roof, causing an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They can also be difficult to use due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly used in the UK they can also be found in other countries. Gas and electric hobs are available. They can be controlled by the push of a button, and they can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making them more convenient to use. These features are attracting consumers. Additionally, some models feature advanced security features, like the child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their quick heating and energy efficiency as well as their precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and are heated only when in contact with cookware compatible which reduces the risk of burning. Furthermore, the power is deactivated immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking zone. These safety features can be especially useful in the home where children or guests could be present.
In addition, induction stoves consume less gas than traditional stoves, which can help reduce the energy bills of households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a 'Stop & Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting to make it easier when you have to leave the kitchen. Others feature the bridge function that connects two induction cooking zones into a single zone managed by a single controller for greater flexibility. You can also use larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones, with the ability to connect multiple zones.
The power settings on a stove can be adjusted with simple, intuitive controls that are easy to operate and read. Many offer timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, an automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' feature that draws maximum power only for the amount of time and an 'underside heat' that is gentle to cut down on simmering times and save energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and doesn't have the nooks and crevices of conventional 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 modern kitchens. They have sleek, modern lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Hobs with automatic switch-off functions use sensors that monitor the surface of the hob for signs of excessive temperature or explosive substances, automatically stopping the gas supply to prevent burns and injuries. This feature is especially important for gas hobs as it reduces the risk of accidents when cooking. Induction hobs also employ sensors to determine when cookware isn't in contact with the hob and prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs available. It's important to choose the right one for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control, energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob you select will impact your budget, both the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs utilize natural gas to create an open flame that warms your pots and pans. Many cooks at home choose them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a precise temperature. Furthermore, they are not affected by power interruptions and work with a variety of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. oven hob can also be more prone to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the flame that is open, and make sure the stove is properly protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are yet another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements under glass or ceramic surfaces to heat your cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based items. They are slower to heat and cool than other types of hobs and can be difficult for cleaning.
Halogen hobs are like electric plate hobs, but they have filament bulbs that heat 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 have touchscreen controls, while others use physical knobs.
Induction hobs are a modern alternative to traditional stovetops, making use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, resulting quicker heating and an uniform distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners that are exposed which makes them easier to clean. They're not as effective in simmering, and may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are a risky part of your kitchen if you do not take the proper precautions. Leaving pans unattended and not properly cleaning them can result in fires that damage your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be the main cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which could present a fire hazard. The majority of hobs have safety features that check operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems employ power modulation as well to ensure that the heat output is constant and does not exceed the safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs however, the technology is safe to use. These EMF aren't as strong as those generated by mobile phones, and the radiation they generate is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types cookware. It's important to make sure that your pots and saucepans are ready for induction before you begin using them. A simple method to check this is to hold an iron near the bottom of the pan. If the pan is able to stick to the magnet, it's compatible with an induction stove. The wrong type of cookware can lead to damage to your stove and possibly an accident.
Keep children and other people away from the hob while it is in use. The surface could become extremely hot. You should also use oven gloves to touch handles of the pan made of metal because they can be extremely hot. It's important to turn off your hob immediately after use, since it could remain hot for a while. If a fire occurs, follow the fire service instructions - call 999 and leave the premises as fast as you can.