What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are less expensive than gas ones, however they use electricity. Induction hobs can be used with virtually any type of cookware. However, they need compatible pans which emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which translates to hole, pit or a ding. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod", which means a crag, a hill or a the crag.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are usually benevolent but they can be a nuisance if they are upset. One of them was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking device is another popular use. Hobs are a type of metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top surface of a hob will usually be flat and is adorned with cooking elements, such as rings. In some cases the hob can be replaced by a flat rock that is used as a quoits goal.
best hobs recorded usage of the word "hob" is from the early sixteenth century. It was probably used at the same time as the female version, hobgoblin. The word hob originates from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Despite their benign nature, hobs are known to play amusing pranks on people. They can be destructive when provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example was able to put a cart onto its roof. This was a major issue for the farmer. They are also difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly used in the UK but they can also be found in other countries as well. Gas and electric hobs are available. They can be controlled with the click of an electronic button, and can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some stoves can connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These features are appealing to consumers. Certain models also come with advanced safety features like the 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 that is compatible that reduces the chance of burning. The power is shut off instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features can be particularly useful in homes where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction stoves consume 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 the cooking areas to their lowest setting when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models have a bridge feature that joins two induction zones into one large one controlled by one control. This allows for greater flexibility. You can also use larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones, with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
The power settings of a hob can be adjusted with simple, intuitive controls that are simple to read and use. Some also have timers, pre-sets for common cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that uses maximum power for the amount of time and a gentle 'bottom heat' to cut down on simmering times and help conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electronic hob is easy to clean and does not contain the nooks and crannies of traditional gas burners which can collect dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add style and sophistication to the modern kitchen, with modern, sleek lines that complement other appliances and décor.
Hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions use sensors that monitor the surface of the hob for signs of abnormal heat or explosive substances, then automatically cutting off the gas supply to prevent burns and injuries. This feature is crucial for gas hobs since it reduces the chance of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also use sensors to detect when cookware isn't in contact with the oven, which can stop electrical shocks.
Types
There are a variety of different kinds of hobs that are that are available, so it is important to determine which one is right for your kitchen. Some features include heating control energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob you choose will also impact your budget - both in the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame by using natural gas. They heat pans and pots. Many home cooks opt for them because they provide instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. They are also not affected by power failures and can be used with a broad variety of cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Additionally, they could be more vulnerable to flare-ups due to accident and fires, so it is important to be aware of the flame's presence and ensure that the stove is adequately protected with grills that are safe.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements beneath glass or ceramic surfaces to heat cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based kitchen appliances. They are slower to cool and heat up than other hobs, and are difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, however they feature a filament bulb which creates heat on the surface. They are more energy efficient than traditional electric hobs, but they are still not as quick to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some have control knobs that are touch-based and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, leading to faster heating and a more evenly distributed heat. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners that are exposed which makes them easier to clean. They aren't as efficient at simmering, and they may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed cooking pots.
Safety
Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen but they can be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Unsupervised pans and inadvertent cleaning can cause fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be an important cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating could cause damage or shatter cookware, which could present a fire hazard. Many hobs come with safety systems that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems use power modulation as well to ensure that the heat output remains constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob as well as its components, while making sure that there are no fire hazards on the other kitchen surfaces.
Induction hobs are deemed safe to use although some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF are not as powerful as those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they generate is non-ionising.
Induction hobs only work with specific types of cookware, so it's important to ensure that your pots and pans are induction-ready prior to making use of them. A simple way to test this is to hold an iron near the bottom of the pan. If it sticks, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. A cookware that is not designed for your needs 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 in use, since the surface may become extremely hot. It is also recommended to use oven gloves to touch handles of the pan made of metal, as they can be extremely hot. It's important to turn off your hob immediately after use, as it may remain hot for a while. If you experience a fire then follow the fire department's instructions - call 999 and leave the premises as fast as you can.