What is a Hob?
The hob is an essential part of every kitchen. Modern ones are typically constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are more affordable than gas ones, but they use electricity. They can also be used with nearly all cookware brands however, induction hobs need compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "hol" which means pit, hole or a ding. The name also traces its roots to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which refers to a crag or a hill.
Folklore says that hobs are faery spirit who do household chores. They are usually kind, but can become a nuisance if offended. One such hob was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
Another popular use of the word is to refer to a specific type of cooking equipment. Hobs are iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob is typically flat and is adorned with cooking elements, including rings. In certain instances the hob may be replaced with a flat stone to allow it to be used as a quoits target.
The first documented uses of the term hob date to the 16th century. It was probably acquired in the same time frame as the feminine form, hobgoblin, which originates from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were well-known fairytales and domestic spirits.
Hobs are known for playing pranks, despite their benign nature. They can also be destructive when they are provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry carts on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. They can also be difficult to use due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly found in the UK they can also be found in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with a single button and can be paired with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some hobs can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth which makes them easier to use. These types of features are drawing buyers to buy these devices. Furthermore, some models come with advanced safety features, for instance a child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their rapid heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to the touch and they heat up only when in contact with compatible cookware, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is also shut off instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in the home, where children and guests might be in the kitchen.
In addition, induction hobs require less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models come with a "Stop & Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking zones to their lowest setting when you are required to leave the kitchen. Others feature the bridge function, which joins two induction cooking zones to create a large zone managed by a single control to provide greater flexibility. You can also make use of 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 and intuitive controls that are simple to read and use. A lot of hobs have timers, presets for the most common cooking tasks, automatic shut-offs, a Booster function that only utilizes maximum power for the needed time, and a soft "bottom heat" to speed up simmering and conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electronic hob is easy to clean and does not contain the nooks and crannies of gas burners that are conventional, which are ovens and hobs prone to collecting dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add style and sophistication to modern kitchens. They are sleek and have modern lines that blend well with other appliances and décor.
Sensors are used in hobs that have automatic shut-off functions. They monitor the surface of the hob for indications of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs, as it helps reduce the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs also use sensors to determine when cookware is not in contact with the oven, which can prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hobs that are available, so it's crucial to think about the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some features include heat control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of hob that you select will also affect your budget - both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame by using natural gas. They heat pots and pans. Many home cooks choose gas hobs due to their 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 operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more prone to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the open flame, and make sure your stove is protected by grills with safety.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements under a ceramic or glass surface to heat your cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based kitchen appliances. They take longer to heat and cool than other types of hobs, and are difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, but they have a filament bulb that is used to heat the surface. This makes them more energy efficient than traditional electric hobs however, they aren't as quick to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some feature touchscreen controls while others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs are a contemporary alternative to traditional stovetops, making use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. Additionally, induction hobs are easier to clean than other kinds of hobs due to the fact that they don't have exposed burners or grates. However, they are not as efficient at simmering and may not be suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen but they can be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not cleaning them properly can cause fires which could damage your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. That's why Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are among of the leading causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which could create a fire risk. Most hobs have safety systems that keep track of operating temperatures to avoid overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is consistent and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components and the 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 are not as strong than those produced by mobile phones and the radiation they generate is non-ionising.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types of cookware. It's important to ensure that your saucepans and pots are induction ready 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 it is compatible with an induction stove. The wrong cookware could damage your hob or cause fire.
It is also essential to ensure that children and other people stay away from the stove when it's in use, as the surface can become extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves whenever you are touching the handles of a metal pan as they can also be extremely hot. It is important to shut off the stove immediately after use, as it may remain hot for a while. If a fire occurs and you are in danger, follow the fire services instructions - call 999 and leave your home as quickly as possible.