Why You'll Want To Learn More About Hobs
Why You'll Want To Learn More About Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
A hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass, which is heatproof and shatterproof. They also have flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. They are powered by electricity but are less expensive than gas hobs. They can also be used with nearly any type of cookware however, induction hobs require compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is related to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod", which means a crag, a hill, or a the crag.
Folklore suggests hobs are faery spirits who perform household chores. They are usually kind, but can become a nuisance if offended. One such hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire that could treat whooping cough.
Another common use of the term is to refer to a specific type of cooking device. A hob is a metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top of a hob is usually flat and has a variety of cooking elements, such as rings. In some cases the hob could be replaced with flat stones to permit it to function as a target for quoits.
The earliest documented instances of the term hob date to the 16th century. It was likely used at the same time as the feminine form hobgoblin. It is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent appearance hobs are known to play games with people. They can also be destructive if they are provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place carts on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. Additionally, they can be difficult to work with due their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly used in the UK, they can be used in other countries as well. They are available in a variety of types, like electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled with the push of one button, and can be utilized in conjunction with other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them more convenient to use. These kinds of features are attracting buyers to buy these devices. Certain models also come with advanced safety features like a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their speedy heating, energy efficiency and 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 burns. Furthermore the power is turned off immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in the home where guests and children might be in the kitchen.
In addition, induction hobs require 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' function that instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting for convenience when you must leave the kitchen. Some models also have bridge functions, which joins two cooking zones induction into a single zone controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones allows you to cook with larger or odd-sized pots and pans.
Simple, intuitive controls are available to alter the power settings of a stove. They are easy to read and operate. A lot of hobs have timers, presets to handle common cooking tasks, automatic shut-offs and a Booster function which only uses the maximum power for the needed duration, and a gentle "bottom heat" to reduce simmering time and save energy.
Furthermore, the smooth, glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not have the nooks and crannies of gas burners that are conventional, which can accumulate dirt and grime with time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add style and sophistication to modern kitchens with sleek, contemporary lines that blend with other appliances and décor.
Hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions use sensors that monitor the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal temperature or explosive substances, automatically shutting off the gas supply to avoid injuries and fires. This feature is especially important for gas hobs as it helps reduce the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to know when the cookware isn't in contact it. This will prevent electric shocks.
Types
There are a variety of hobs available. It's important to choose the best one for your kitchen. Some features are: heating control energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of stove you choose will also affect the cost of your kitchen as well as the initial cost and running costs.
Gas hobs produce an open flame with natural gas. They heat pans and pots. They are a popular option for many cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. Additionally, they are unaffected by power interruptions and work with various cooking equipment. However gas hobs can be more expensive to run and require regular maintenance for example, cleaning the grates. Additionally, they could be more prone to flare-ups that happen accidentally which is why you must be aware of the flame's openness and ensure the stove is adequately protected by grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements that are placed beneath the glass or ceramic surface to heat your cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based kitchen appliances. However, they take longer to warm up and cool down than other kinds of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs look similar to electric plates, but they feature a filament lamp which heats the surface. They are more energy efficient however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs have more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some having control buttons that are touch-based, while others come with physical knobs to turn.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops, making use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other kinds of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners exposed, making them easier to clean. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and are not suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are an essential component of any kitchen, but they could be dangerous in the event that you do not take proper precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not cleaning them properly can lead to fires that could ruin your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. That's why the 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 can create a fire risk. Fortunately, most hobs have safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features protect the hob and its components, while making sure that there are no fire hazards on the other kitchen surfaces.
Induction hobs are deemed safe to use even though some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF aren't as strong as those produced by mobile phones and the radiation they produce is non-ionising.
Induction hobs work only with certain types of cookware. It's important to make sure that your cookware and pots are ready for induction before you begin using them. Placing a magnet near the pan's base is a simple method to test. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong cookware can damage your hob or cause a fire.
Be sure to keep children and other guests away from the stove when it is in use. The surface could get extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves whenever you are touching metal pan handles because they are also very hot. It is also crucial to turn your oven off straight after use as they may remain hot for a long time. Follow the instructions of the fire service ovens and dial 999 as quickly as you can if there is a fire.