What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital part of every kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They run on electricity, but are less expensive than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with almost any kind of cookware. However, they need compatible pans which emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is akin to the Old English word "hol" and refers to a hole, pit or a dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod", which means a crag, a hill or a crag.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are generally benevolent but they can be a nuisance if they are upset. One example of a hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking appliance is another popular use. A hob is a metal plate that is used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of the plate is typically flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements including rings. In some instances, the hob is replaced with an elongated rock which can serve as a goal for quoits.
The first recorded usage of the term "hob" is from the early sixteenth century. It is likely that it was acquired during the same timeframe as the feminine form hobgoblin, which is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were well-known fairytales and domestic spirits.
Hobs are known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can also be destructive if they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire for instance was able to bring a cart up its roof. This was a major problem for the farmer. They are also difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly used in the UK they are also used in other countries. They are available in many types, like gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled by the press of an electronic button, and can be utilized alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are also connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These kinds of features are enticed customers to purchase these devices. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features such as locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their rapid heating and energy efficiency as well as their precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surface stays cool to touch and only is heated when in contact with cookware that is compatible. This reduces the chance of burning. The power is also shut off instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly beneficial in homes where guests and children are likely to be in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also consume less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps lower the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
oven and hob feature the 'Stop and Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for convenience when you must leave the kitchen. Certain models come with a bridge feature that joins two induction zones into a large zone controlled by one control. This provides greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones that have the ability to connect multiple zones.
Simple and intuitive controls are offered to alter the power settings of a stove. They are simple to read and use. Hobs can also be equipped with timers, presets for the most common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs as well as a Booster feature which only uses the maximum power for the needed time, and a gentle "bottom heat" to cut down on simmer 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 crevices of conventional gas burners, which are prone to collecting dirt and grime with time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with sleek, contemporary designs that match other appliances and decor.
Hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions use sensors that monitor the hob surface for signs of unusual temperature or explosive substances, then automatically cutting off the gas supply to avoid injuries and fires. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs as it reduces the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also use sensors to determine when cookware is not in contact with the hob, which can protect against electrical shocks.
Types
There are many different types of hobs that are available. It's important to choose the right one for your kitchen. Some features include heat control energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of hob that you select will have an impact on your budget, both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs use natural gas to create an open flame that heats your pots and pans. Many cooks at home 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 costly to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. Additionally, they may be more vulnerable to accidental flare-ups, so you need to be mindful of the open flame and ensure that the stove is adequately secured with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen option that makes use of electric elements that are placed beneath a ceramic or glass surface to heat your cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based kitchen appliances. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more efficient in energy use however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control, with some offering touch-based controls while others have physical knobs to turn.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating and a more even distribution of heat. Additionally they are less difficult to clean than other types of hobs since they do not have exposed burners or grates. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and might not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you fail to take the necessary precautions. Leaving pans unattended and not cleaning them properly can result in fires that ruin your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are the main cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can damage or even shatter cookware, which could create a fire risk. Fortunately, many hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems also make use of power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is constant and does not exceed the limits of safety. These features protect the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Induction hobs are deemed safe for use, even though some people worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs are not as powerful and strong as those generated by mobile phone and their radiation is non-ionising.
Induction hobs only work with specific cookware types So it's essential to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready prior to using them. Placing a magnet near the base of the pan is a straightforward way to test. If it sticks, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Making the wrong choice of cookware can lead to the hob becoming damaged and causing an explosion.
Be sure to keep children and other guests away from the cooking area when it is in use. The surface can become extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves when touching metal pan handles as they can also be very hot. Also, it is important to turn your stove off immediately after use because they can remain hot for a while. If you experience a fire and you are in danger, follow the fire services instructions - call 911 and leave your house as fast as you can.