15 Things You Don't Know About Hobs
15 Things You Don't Know About 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. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they require electricity. They can also be used with nearly any type of cookware however, induction hobs require compatible pans that generate a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to Old English "hol", which means pit, hole or a dent. The name also traces its roots to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which is a reference to a crag or a hill.
In folklore, hobs are faery spirits who help with household chores. They are generally benevolent, but they can also be an issue if they are upset. One of them was the hobthrush from Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking device is another common use. A hob is a metal plate used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top of the plate is typically flat, and it is equipped with several cooking elements like rings. In certain instances the hob could be replaced with a flat stone to allow it to function as a quoits target.
The first recorded use of the term "hob" dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. It was probably taken over as the feminine form, hobgoblin. It originates from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are well-known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive when provoked. For example, one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry a cart on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly used in the UK they can also be found in other countries. They come in a variety of types, like electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled with one button and can be used alongside other kitchen appliances. Furthermore, some hobs connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These features are attracting consumers. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features like a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are famous 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 that reduces the chance of burns. Furthermore, the power is deactivated immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking area. These safety features are particularly beneficial in homes where children or guests may be present.
In addition, induction hobs require 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 come with a 'Stop & Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for ease of use when you need to leave the kitchen. Others feature the bridge function that joins two cooking zones using induction to create a large zone controlled by a single controller for greater flexibility. The capability 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 setting of the power of a hob. They are simple to read and operate. Many also offer timers, pre-sets to common cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a 'Booster' feature that draws maximum power for the necessary amount of time, and an easy 'bottom heat' to speed up simmering and help conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of check here an electronic hob is easy to clean and doesn't have the nooks and crannies of conventional gas burners, which are prone to collecting dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs have been designed to add elegance and class to modern kitchens. They are sleek and have contemporary lines to complement other appliances and décor.
Hobs with automatic switch-off functions have sensors that scan the hob surface for signs of unusual temperatures or explosive substances, then automatically shutting off the gas supply to avoid burns and injuries. This feature is especially important for gas hobs since it reduces the chance of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs also have sensors to determine if cookware isn't in contact with the hob and protect against electrical shocks.
Types
There are many different types of hobs available. It is important to select the right one for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control, energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you choose will also affect your budget in 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 home cooks choose them because they provide instant heat and can be set to a specific temperature. Additionally, they are unaffected by power outages and can be used with various cooking equipment. Gas hobs are more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more vulnerable to flare-ups that happen accidentally, so you need to be mindful of the flame's openness and ensure that the stove is adequately protected with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, a different option in the kitchen employs electric elements beneath a glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based items. They take longer to cool and heat than other types of hobs, and are difficult for cleaning.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plate hobs, but they have filament bulbs that heat the surface. They are more energy-efficient however, they take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some feature control knobs that are touch-based while others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, leading to faster heating as well as a more even distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners that are exposed making them easier to clean. They're not as effective in simmering, and might not be suitable for use with heavy-bottomed cooking pots.
Safety
Hobs are an essential part of any kitchen, but they could be dangerous in the event that you do not take proper precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not properly cleaning them can result in fires that ruin your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be a major cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can damage or even shatter cookware, which could cause fire hazards. Many hobs come with safety systems that keep track of operating temperatures to avoid overheating. These systems use power modulation as well to ensure that heat output is constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs, the technology is considered safe to use. The EMFs produced by these devices aren't as strong and powerful as those produced 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 induction-ready before making use of them. Placing a magnet near the pan's base is a quick way to test. If the pan stays, it is compatible with an induction cooker. The wrong cookware could cause damage to your stove or cause a fire.
It is also essential to keep children and other persons away from the hob while it is in use, since the surface can get extremely hot. Also, it is recommended to wear oven gloves when you touch the handles of a metal pan because they can be extremely hot. Also, it is important to turn your stove off immediately after use because they may remain hot for a long time. Follow the advice of the fire service and dial 999 as quickly as you can if there is a fire.