What is a Hob?

A hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is heatproof and shatterproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They use electric energy but can be cheaper than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with almost any kind of cookware. However, they require compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.

Origin

Hob is an English masculine name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "hol" which means pit, hole or a dent. The name is also related to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which is a reference to the crag or hill.

Folklore suggests that hobs are faery spirit who perform household chores. They are generally benevolent, however they can be annoying if they are offended. One example of a hob was the hobthrush found in Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.

Another common use of the term is to refer to a kind of cooking equipment. Hobs are a type of metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top surface is usually flat, and it is equipped with several cooking elements like rings. In some instances, the hob is replaced with an elongated rock that can be used as a goal for quoits.

The earliest attested uses of the term hob go back to the early 16th century. It was likely used at the same time as the feminine form hobgoblin. The word hob originates from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.

Despite their innocent appearance hobs are known to play amusing pranks on people. They can be destructive when provoked. For example, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to put carts on its roof, causing an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. Moreover they can be a hassle to work with due to their speed and strength.

Although hobs are most commonly found in the UK they can also be used in other countries. They are available in many varieties, including gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled with the click of one button, and can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These features are appealing to consumers. Furthermore, some models come with advanced security features, like a child lock.

Functions

Induction hobs are known for their rapid heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces stay cool to the touch and are heated only when they are in contact with compatible cookware, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is also deactivated immediately when cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly useful in the home where children and guests may be present in the kitchen.

Induction hobs also consume less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps reduce household energy bills and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.

Some models feature a 'Stop & Go' function that instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting to make it easier when you need to leave the kitchen. Some models have a bridge function that joins two cooking zones induction to create a large zone controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. The ability to connect multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook with larger or odd-sized pots and pans.

Simple easy-to-use controls are available to adjust the setting of the power of a hob. They are easy to read and use. Many offer timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that uses maximum power for the necessary amount of time, and an easy 'bottom heat' to cut down on simmering times and save energy.

Additionally, the smooth glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and doesn't contain the nooks and crannies of gas burners that are conventional, which can collect dirt and grime with time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add elegance and style to the modern kitchen, with modern, sleek lines that blend with other appliances and decor.

Hobs that have automatic switch-off functions make use of sensors that check the surface of the hob for signs of excessive temperature or explosive substances, automatically shutting off the gas supply to avoid burns and injuries. This feature is especially important for gas hobs as it reduces the chance of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also use sensors to determine if cookware isn't in contact with the oven, which can stop electrical shocks.

Types

There are a variety of hobs to choose from. It is crucial to choose the best hobs one for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control and energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of stove you select will also affect your budget, both the initial cost and running costs.

Gas hobs generate an open flame using natural gas. They heat pans and pots. Many home cooks choose them because they provide instant heat ovens and hobs can be set to a specific temperature. Furthermore, they are not affected by power outages and work well with a variety of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more costly to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs can also be more susceptible than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the flame that is open and ensure that your stove is protected with protective grilles.

Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements that are placed beneath glass or ceramic surfaces to heat your cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based items. They take longer to cool and heat up than other types of hobs, and are difficult to clean.

Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs but feature a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more energy-efficient however they require more time to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some feature touchscreen controls, while others use physical knobs.

Induction hobs are a contemporary alternative to traditional stovetops employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, which results in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. Induction hobs also have less exposed burners and grates which makes them easier to clean. They are not as good in simmering, and are not suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.

Safety

Hobs can be a dangerous part of your Kitchen functionality if you do not take the necessary precautions. Inadequately monitoring your pans and not cleaning them properly can lead to fires that could harm your kitchen and cause harm to you or others. That's why Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are among of the main causes of kitchen fires in the best ovens uk.

The cookware can overheat and cause it to become damaged or even shatter, posing the risk of fire. The majority of hobs have safety features that check operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems use power modulation as well to ensure that heat output is constant and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.

Induction hobs are considered safe for use, even though some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs aren't as powerful and strong like those generated by mobile phone and their radiation isn't ionizing.

Induction hobs only work with certain types of cookware It is therefore essential to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready prior to using them. By placing a magnet on the pan's base is a simple method to test. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong cookware could damage your hob or cause fire.

It is also important to keep children and other people away from the cooking area when it is being used, as the surface may become extremely hot. Additionally, you should wear oven gloves whenever you are touching metal pan handles as they can also be very hot. It is essential to shut off your hob immediately after use, since it could remain hot for a period of time. Follow the guidelines of the fire service and dial 999 as quickly as you can in the event that there's a fire.