The Secret Life Of Hobs
The Secret Life Of Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern ones are typically constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They are powered by electricity but are less expensive than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with almost any cookware. However, they require compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or a dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod", which means a crag, hill or a the crag.
Folklore has it that hobs are faery spirit who help with household chores. They are generally benevolent, but can become an issue if they are upset. One example of a hob was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking appliance is a different type of cooking device that is used extensively. Hobs are iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top of the plate is typically flat, and has several cooking elements including rings. In some cases the hob can be replaced by a flat rock that can be used as a goal for quoits.
The earliest documented instances of the word hob date to the 16th century. It was likely acquired in the same timeframe as the female counterpart, hobgoblin, which originates from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were celebrated fairy and domestic spirit.
Despite their innocent nature hobs can play games with people. They can also be very destructive if they are provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place a cart on its roof, causing an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. Moreover they can be a pain to work with due to their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mainly found in the UK they are also used in other countries. Hobs with electric and gas are available. They can be controlled by just a single button, and can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some hobs can connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them more convenient to use. These kinds of features are enticed buyers to buy these devices. Some models also have advanced safety features, such as a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for their rapid 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 minimizes the risk of burns. Furthermore the power is turned off immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking area. These safety features are especially useful in the home, where children and guests are likely to be in the kitchen.
Induction hobs also use less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps reduce household energy bills and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have a 'Stop & Go' function that instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for convenience when you must leave the kitchen. Some models have bridge features that connect two induction zones into a large zone controlled by one control. This allows for greater flexibility. The ability to connect multiple cooking zones allows you to cook with larger or odd-sized pots and pans.
Simple easy-to-use controls are available to alter the power settings of a hob. They are simple to read and operate. 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 required duration, and a gentle "bottom heat" to speed up simmering and save energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic-like surface on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks or crannies that can collect dirt over time, as with traditional gas stoves. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring design and elegance to modern kitchens with sleek, contemporary designs that match other appliances and decor.
Sensors are employed in hobs that have automatic shut-off features. They check the surface of the hob to detect signs of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then cut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it reduces the chance of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also employ sensors to determine if cookware is not in contact with the hob to prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs that are available. It's important to choose the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some of the features include: heating control; energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you select will also have an affect the cost of your kitchen in both the initial cost and running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame using natural gas. This heats pans and pots. 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 many cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more expensive to operate and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. Gas hobs can also be more prone than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the open flame and ensure that your stove is protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs, another option for kitchens employs electric elements beneath a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. These hobs are cost-effective and provide a excellent heat distribution for flat-based items. They take longer to cool and heat than other types of hobs and can be difficult for cleaning.
Halogen hobs look similar to electric plates, but they feature a filament lamp which creates heat on 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 temperature control. Some are equipped with control knobs that are touch-based and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs are a modern alternative to traditional stovetops employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and more evenly heat distribution. Additionally they are less difficult to clean than other types of hobs since they have no exposed burners or grates. They aren't as efficient in the process of simmering, and are not suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you don't make the necessary precautions. Inadequately cleaned pans and unsupervised cleaning can lead to fires that can destroy your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be an important cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can damage or even shatter cookware, which can present a fire hazard. Fortunately, most hobs are fitted with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems employ power modulation to ensure that the heat output is constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Induction hobs best hobs uk are deemed safe for use, even though some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). The EMFs produced by these devices aren't as strong and powerful as those produced by mobile phones, and their radiation is non-ionising.
Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types cookware. It's important to make sure that your saucepans and pots are induction ready before you begin using them. Placing a magnet near the pan's base is a quick method to test. If the pan stays to the magnet, it's compatible with an induction cooker. A cookware that is not designed for your needs could cause damage to your stove or even cause a fire.
Keep children and others away from the cooking area when it is in use. The surface could get extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves when you touch handles on metal pans because they can be extremely hot. It is important to shut off your stove as soon as you finish use, as it can remain hot for a while. If a fire occurs then follow the fire department's instructions - call 911 and leave your house as fast as you can.