Which Oven Hob Is Right For Your Kitchen?
Oven hobs are the heart of a kitchen and there are a variety of options to choose from. We have a variety of cooking ring sizes ranging from four to six. Some have additional features such as pan supports.
They are quick to heat and cool, with a consistent temperature for the cooking surface. Often favoured by professional chefs and easy to manage.
Gas Hobs
Gas hobs are a common option. They feature burner rings as well as grates that pots and saucepans rest on. They are quick to heat up and provide precise temperature control. They can also accommodate many cooking techniques including boiling water to grilling meats. Gas hobs are typically less expensive to run than electric ones as they utilise natural gas as a source of energy.
They are available in a broad variety of finishes, including ceramic glass and stainless steel. These finishes provide modern and sleek appearance that can be a perfect match for any kitchen design. However, they are prone to scorching and scratching which is why it's essential to take extra care when cleaning them.
Regular cleaning will help keep your stove in top condition. This is particularly important if you own an older style freestanding model. It is possible to remove the burner caps and grates for deeper cleaning, taking them out of the soapy water and gently rubbing. You can also make a mild paste of baking soda and use it to remove stubborn staining without damaging the surface.
In contrast to traditional gas stoves which are appliances that stand on their own, built-in gas hobs are integrated into the countertop of the kitchen, providing a seamless look. They can also be mounted on a standalone base, making them simple to move in case you move home or change the layout of your kitchen. Gas hobs need a lot of work and professional installation in order to be put in your kitchen.
Gas hobs can be found in a range of finishes. From traditional white and black to the contemporary glossy glass, they come in many different styles. Some even come in stunning blue or green colour to add some character to your kitchen.
Gas hobs are a safe and reliable option that has been used for a long time. Gas hobs are energy-efficient, provide precise temperature control and evenly distributed heat. However, it is essential to practice proper ventilation and follow safety guidelines to avoid accidents.
Another benefit to gas hobs is their flame failure mechanism, which shuts off the gas supply once the flame of the burner goes out. This prevents accidental explosions or burns.
Ceramic Hobs
A ceramic hob has contemporary, sleek appearance and is relatively easy to warm up and clean. They come in a range of styles, from ultra-sleek flat to more traditional rectangular and square shapes, so there's one that will suit the majority of kitchens. They are easy to clean after use due to their flat surface. Some also have residual heat indicators that shut off the area when it's too hot to touch. This reduces the chance of burns that happen accidentally and is particularly beneficial for families with young children.
The flat surface of the ceramic hob is vulnerable to scratches and chips. This is a particular issue if you drag pans across it rather than lifting them by their handles, so we recommend being extra careful when handling and moving cookware onto and off the hob. We also advise against using magnetic or metal cookware on a ceramic cooktop as it can cause damage to the surface.
Another disadvantage of a ceramic stove is that it can take longer than gas or induction to cool down. This can be a hassle when you're working in a kitchen that is busy or if you need to quickly switch between cooking areas. However there are many manufacturers who have worked on this and now offer various hobs that can reduce their cooling time by up to 30%.
Hobs induction
Induction hobs heat up fastest and are the most efficient choice available. ovens and hobs are extremely hygienic and safe, and they don't store any heat in the cooking zone. However they can be costly.
Induction Hobs
Induction hobs are a popular choice for kitchen renovations. They are a stylish alternative to traditional gas cooktops. The pan is heated, not the glass/ceramic surface. This reduces energy consumption and makes them safer to use. They also cool down faster than traditional hobs, so they're easier to clean.
Under the shiny, smooth glass/ceramic surface of an induction cooker are copper coils through which an alternating electrical current runs through. The coils are activated through magnetic induction when a suitable pot or pan is placed on the cooking area. This lets you cook more efficiently as there is no loss of heat from the pan itself.
There's an induction stove that will suit your taste. If you want something easy to use, you can choose a model that has an LCD display that shows the pan's position within each of its zones. When you tap on the display, you can access a detailed menu for operation, changing the power settings or the timer. Certain induction hobs come pre-programmed with settings to fit certain food recipes or types. This is a great way to save time while cooking.
Induction hobs are also regarded as one of the most energy efficient cooktop options, because they don't generate any residual heat and consume less electricity than traditional electric hobs. However, due to the fact that they create magnetic fields, these can interfere with medical equipment like pacemakers, and it is recommended to avoid using them near them.
Our suggestion is to select a top induction cooker with an integrated extractor. This removes steam, smoke and odours out of the air while you cook, meaning it can be used with a larger range of cookware. You'll also get the most value for your money if you choose one with a dual-flex zone, which allows you to join two zones together on the left side to accommodate larger pans.
Hotpoint's models with CleanProtect are an excellent option if you're looking for a durable hob that will repel hard-wearing staining. The coating protects against chips, scratches and stains. According to the manufacturer it is five times stronger than their conventional ceramic coating. You should still use a non-abrasive cleaner or scrubbing pad to get rid of food residues that have been burned, but avoid any cleaners that are abrasive, which can scratch the ceramic surface.
Electric Hobs
Electric hobs are an essential element in modern kitchens. They are stylish and practical. Their sleek appearance makes them easy to fit in any decor, and their efficient heating makes them an easy option for busy households.
Unlike gas, which burns a flame to heat up the pan, electric hobs employ an element that floats through the ceramic glass and directly warms the food that is placed on top of it. Electric hobs are also more energy efficient, since they can be turned off when not being used.
It's important to note that not all stoves have the same features. Some hobs are more advanced equipped with features like an automatic safety shut-off, a digital display, which clearly displays the temperature and power levels and cooking time. Some models also have a boost function that increases the speed of the element to provide more power.
Another benefit of an electric hob is its flat surface that makes it easier to clean than a traditional gas model. Since there are no grates to scrub, spillages and splatters can simply be wiped away so that your hob will stay in good shape for a longer period of time.
Electric hobs are an excellent option for families. However when you wear pacemakers, you are not able to make use of this type of stove since its electromagnetic field can interfere with the device. Induction hobs are a better option for those who require a compatible cookware, which you can buy from our selection of kitchen appliances.
If you're in search of a high quality and robust oven hob for your home take a look at our range of Foster models. You can pick from a variety of finishes and colours. Speak to our team for more details. We are ready to answer your questions and offer expert advice. Contact us at 02920 452 or fill in our contact form. We look forward hearing from you.