20 Reasons Why Hobs Will Never Be Forgotten
20 Reasons Why Hobs Will Never Be Forgotten
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital part of every kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass, which is heatproof and shatterproof. They also feature flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. They run on electricity, however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. Induction hobs are compatible with almost any cookware. However, they need compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or dent. The name has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which is a reference to the crag or hill.
In folklore, hobs are faery spirits that do domestic chores. They are generally benevolent but they can be a nuisance if they are upset. One of them was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
Another common use of the word is to refer to a kind of cooking device. Hobs are a type of metal plate that is used to cook food and heat liquids. The top of a hob will usually be flat and features several cooking elements, like rings. In certain instances, the hob can be replaced with an elongated stone that allows it to be used as a quoits target.
The earliest documented instances of the term hob go back to the early 16th century. It was probably taken over as the female version hobgoblin. This is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their innocent nature hobs can play games with people. They can also be destructive if provoked. For example, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place a cart on its roof, causing a serious inconvenience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use due to their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly used in the UK, they can be found in other countries too. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with the click of an electronic button, and can be used alongside other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These types of features are enticed consumers to purchase these devices. Furthermore, some models come with advanced security features, like the child lock.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their rapid heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and are heated only when they come into contact with cookware compatible which reduces the risk 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 might be in the kitchen.
In addition, induction hobs use less gas than traditional stovetops, which 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 areas to the lowest setting to make it easier when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models also have the bridge function that joins two cooking zones using induction to create a large zone that is controlled by a single control for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pans and pots or odd-sized ones, with the ability to connect multiple zones.
The power settings of a hob can be adjusted with simple easy-to-use controls that are easy to operate and read. Many offer timers, presets for the most typical cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a 'Booster' function that makes use of the maximum power only for the required amount of time, and a gentle 'bottom heat' to speed up simmering and help conserve energy.
Additionally, the smooth glass-ceramic surface of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not have the nooks and crannies of traditional gas burners which are prone to collecting dirt and grime with time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring style and sophistication to the modern kitchen, with sleek, modern designs that match other appliances and décor.
Sensors are used in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off features. They monitor the surface of the hob for signs of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically shut off to prevent injury or fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs because it reduces the chance of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to determine when cookware isn't in contact it. This can prevent electric shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs to choose from. It's important to choose the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some features are: heat control energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware, and safety. The type of stove you select will also impact your budget - both in the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame by using natural gas. This heats pots and pans. They are a preferred choice for many home cooks due to their instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a broad variety of cooking equipment. Gas hobs are more costly to run and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Additionally, they could be more vulnerable to accidental flare-ups which is why you must be mindful of the flame's openness and ensure that the stove is adequately secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are yet another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements beneath the glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based kitchen appliances. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other types of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs, but have a filament bulb that heats 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 have more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some offering touch-based controls while others have physical knobs that you can turn.
Induction hobs are a contemporary alternative to traditional stovetops, employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient, resulting faster heating and a more even distribution of heat. In addition they are less difficult to clean than other types best ovens and hobs of hobs due to the fact that they don't have grates or burners that are exposed. They're not as effective in simmering, and are not suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs are an essential component of any kitchen, but they could be dangerous in the event that you do not take proper precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not cleaning them properly can cause fires which could damage your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are the main cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which can cause fire hazards. Fortunately, many hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure the output of heat is constant and does not exceed the limits of safety. These features help safeguard the hob and its components, while protecting the other kitchen surfaces.
While some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. These EMFs aren't as strong and powerful as those generated by mobile phone, and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs only work with specific types of cookware So it's essential to verify that your cookware and pans are ready for induction prior to making use of them. Placing a magnet near the base of the pan is a simple way to test. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. Making the wrong choice of cookware could result in the hob becoming damaged and causing a fire.
Keep children and others away from the hob when it is being used. The surface can become extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves whenever you are touching metal pan handles because they are also extremely hot. It's important to turn off your hob immediately after use, as it may remain hot for a while. If a fire occurs, follow the fire service advice - to call 999 and leave the premises as quickly as possible.