Here's A Few Facts About Hobs. Hobs
Here's A Few Facts About Hobs. Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass, which is heatproof and shatterproof. They also feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They run on electricity, but can be cheaper than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with virtually any type of cookware. However, they require compatible pans which emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that can be traced 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 related to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means a crag or a hill.
Folklore has it hobs are faery spirits who do household chores. They are generally kind however they can also be a nuisance if they are offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It could cure whooping-cough.
Another popular usage of the term is to refer to a kind of cooking equipment. Hobs are iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob is typically flat and is adorned with cooking elements, including rings. In certain instances the hob could be replaced by an elongated stone that allows it to serve as a quoits target.
The earliest attested uses of the word hob date back to the early 16th century. It was likely acquired at the same time as the female form, 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 pranks on people. They can also be very destructive when provoked. For example one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry carts on its roof, causing a serious inconvenience for the farmer. They are also difficult to use because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly found in the UK they can also be used in other countries. They are available in many forms, such as electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled by the press of an electronic button, and can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These features are attracting buyers. Furthermore, some models come with advanced safety features, for instance locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their quick heating energy efficiency, as well as precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surface remains cool to touch and only heats up when in contact with compatible cookware. This minimizes the risk for burns. Furthermore, the power is deactivated immediately when the cookware is removed from the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly beneficial in homes where guests and children might be in the kitchen.
In addition, induction stoves use less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models have a 'Stop and go" function that instantly reduces the cooking areas to their lowest settings when you need to leave the kitchen. Certain models come with bridge functions that join two induction zones into a large one controlled by one control. This provides greater flexibility. The ability to connect multiple cooking zones also means you can cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.
Simple easy-to-use controls are available to adjust the power settings of a hob. They are easy to read and use. Many also offer timers, pre-sets to typical cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that makes use of the maximum power for the amount of time, and a gentle 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and save energy.
Additionally, the smooth glass-ceramic surface of an electric hob is easy check here to clean and does not contain the nooks and crannies of traditional gas burners which can collect dirt and grime over time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring design and elegance to the modern kitchen, with sleek, contemporary lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Hobs that have automatic switch-off functions have sensors that scan the hob surface for signs of unusual temperatures or explosive substances, and then automatically stopping the gas supply to avoid burns and injuries. This feature is especially important for gas hobs since it mitigates the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also employ sensors to determine when cookware isn't in contact with the oven and protect against electrical shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hobs that are available, so it's crucial to consider which one is right for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control and energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob you choose will also affect your budget, both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs create an open flame using natural gas. They heat pots and pans. They are a preferred option for many home cooks due to their instant heat and can be adjusted to provide precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a large range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more costly to run and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more susceptible than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the flame that is open and ensure that the stove is properly secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements beneath a ceramic or glass surface to heat your cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based items. They are more difficult to cool and heat than other types of hobs, and are difficult for cleaning.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, however they feature a filament bulb which is used to heat the surface. This makes them more energy efficient than traditional electric hobs however, they aren't as fast to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some feature touchscreen controls and others have physical knobs.
Induction hobs make use of electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient, leading to faster heating and a more even distribution of heat. Induction hobs also have less grates and burners exposed, making them easier to clean. They aren't as efficient in the process of simmering, and may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed cookware.
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 result in fires that ruin your kitchen and cause injury to you or other. This is why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are among of the main causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can cause damage to or shatter cookware, which can create a fire risk. The majority of hobs have safety features that keep track of operating temperatures to avoid overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is consistent and does not exceed the limits of safety. These features help protect the hob and its components, while protecting the nearby surfaces in the kitchen.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs however, the technology is safe to use. These EMF are not as strong as those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they generate is not ionizing.
Induction hobs work only with certain types cookware. It's important to make sure that your pots and saucepans are ready for induction before you use them. A simple method to test this is to hold a magnet at the base of the pan. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. A cookware that is not designed for your needs can damage your hob or cause a fire.
It is also essential to keep children and other persons away from the stove when it is in use, since the surface can become extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves whenever you are touching handles on metal pans because they can be very hot. Also, it is essential to switch your hob off straight after use as they may remain hot for a long time. Follow the instructions of the fire department and dial 999 as quickly as you can if there's an emergency fire.