The Reasons You'll Want To Read More About Hobs
The Reasons You'll Want To Read More About Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
A hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they use electricity. They can also be used with nearly all cookware brands, but induction hobs require compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is masculine English name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to the Old English word "hol" and means hole, pit or a ding. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which translates to a crag, hill or a the crag.
Folklore suggests that hobs are faery spirit who help with household chores. They are usually kind, but can become a nuisance if offended. One of these hobs was Hobthrush, which was found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It could cure whooping-cough.
Another popular use of the term is to refer to a type of cooking device. Hobs are iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob will usually be flat and is adorned with cooking elements, including rings. In certain instances, the hob can be replaced by a flat rock that is used as a goal for quoits.
The earliest attested uses of the word hob date back to the early 16th century. It is likely that it was acquired during the same timeframe as the feminine form hobgoblin. It is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were well-known fairytales and domestic spirits.
Hobs are well-known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive when provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example could even put a cart onto its roof. This caused a huge issue for the farmer. They are also difficult to use due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly used in the UK they can also be used in other countries. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled by one button and 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 buyers. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features such as the lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their quick heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and are heated only when they come into contact with cookware that is compatible, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is shut off immediately when cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in the home where guests and children may be present in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also use less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps reduce household energy costs 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. Some models feature bridge features that connect two induction zones into a large zone controlled by one control. This provides greater flexibility. The ability to connect multiple cooking zones means you can cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted using simple, intuitive controls that are easy to operate and read. Many offer timers, pre-sets to common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that makes use of the maximum power for the required amount of time and a gentle 'bottom website heat' to speed up simmering and conserve energy.
Additionally, the smooth glass-ceramic surface of an electric hob is easy to clean and doesn't have the nooks and crannies of gas burners that are conventional, which can collect dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs were designed to add elegance and class to the modern kitchen. They have sleek, contemporary lines to complement other appliances and décor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions. They scan the surface of the hob for signs of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then cut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is especially important for gas hobs since it reduces the chance of accidents when cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to detect the cookware isn't in contact it. This will stop electric shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hob that are available, so it is important to determine the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some features are: heating control and energy efficiency, as well as compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you choose will also impact on your budget as well as the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame using natural gas. This heats pots and pans. Many home cooks choose gas hobs due to their instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. Furthermore, they are not affected by power interruptions and work with various cooking equipment. However, gas hobs can be more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, like cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more vulnerable to flare-ups that happen accidentally which is why you must be aware of the open flame and ensure that the stove is adequately protected with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements beneath the glass or ceramic surface to heat your cookware. They are affordable and offer good heat distribution for flat-based products. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hobs and are difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are like electric plate hobs but feature 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, with some offering touch-based controls while others have physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, resulting faster heating as well as a more even distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have fewer exposed burners and grates which makes them easier to clean. However, they are not as efficient in simmering and are not suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs are a risky part of your kitchen if you do not make the necessary precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning could cause fires that can damage your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be a major cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating could cause damage or shatter cookware, which can cause fire hazards. Fortunately, most hobs have safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems use power modulation to ensure that the heat output is constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs however, the technology is safe to use. These EMF are not as powerful as those produced by mobile phones and the radiation they produce is not ionizing.
Induction hobs work only with certain types of cookware. It is essential to ensure that your saucepans and pots are ready for induction before you use them. Placing a magnet near the base of the pan is a simple method to test. If it is stuck the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong type of cookware can lead to damaging your hob and causing an accident.
It is also important to keep children and other persons away from the hob while it is in use, since the surface may become extremely hot. Also, it is recommended to wear oven gloves whenever you are touching the handles of a metal pan because they are also extremely hot. It's important to turn off the stove immediately after use, as it can remain hot for some time. Follow the instructions of the fire service and call 999 as fast as you can if there is an incident of fire.