The Hidden Secrets Of Hobs
The Hidden Secrets Of Hobs
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential part of any kitchen. Modern hobs are usually constructed of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They are powered by electricity but can be cheaper than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with almost any cookware. However, they need compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which means pit, hole or a dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod", which means the word "crag" or hill, or a crag.
Folklore has it that hobs are faery spirit who perform household chores. They are generally benevolent, but can become a nuisance when offended. One such hob was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire, which could cure whooping cough.
A type of cooking appliance is another common use. Hobs are iron plate that is used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob is typically flat and has a variety of cooking elements, such as rings. In certain instances, the hob can be replaced by an elongated rock that can be used as a quoits goal.
The first documented usage of the term "hob" is from the beginning of the 16th century. It was likely used at the same time as the female version hobgoblin. The word hob is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are well-known for playing Pranks, despite their innocent nature. They can be destructive when provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place carts on its roof, which was an extremely unpleasant experience for the farmer. Moreover, they can be a pain to work with due their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly used in the UK, they can be found in other countries, too. They are available in a variety of varieties, including electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled with the click of an electronic button, and can be used in conjunction with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth which makes them more convenient to use. These features are attracting consumers. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features such as locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their quick heating and energy efficiency as well as their precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and heat up only when in contact with cookware that is compatible, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is shut off instantly when the cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are especially beneficial in homes, where children and guests are likely to 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 feature a 'Stop & Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting for convenience when you need to leave the kitchen. Others feature the bridge function that joins two induction cooking zones into a single large zone that is controlled by a single control to provide greater flexibility. The ability to connect multiple cooking zones also means you can cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.
The power settings of a hob can be adjusted with simple, intuitive controls that are simple to operate and read. Many offer timers, pre-sets to common cooking functions, an automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that uses maximum power for the amount of time, and a gentle 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and save energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic surface on an electric hob makes it easy to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks and crevices that could collect dirt over time, as with traditional gas stoves. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add style and sophistication to modern kitchens with modern, sleek lines that complement other appliances and décor.
Hobs that have automatic switch-off functions use sensors that monitor the surface of the hob for indications of unusual temperatures or explosive substances, then automatically stopping the gas supply to prevent burns and injuries. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it reduces the chance of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs use sensors to detect when the cookware isn't in contact with it. This can protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs to choose from. It's important to choose the right one for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob that you select will also affect your budget, both the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs generate an open flame using natural gas. They heat pots and pans. Many home cooks opt for them due to the fact that they offer instant heat and can be set to a precise temperature. They are also unaffected by power failures more info and can be used with a wide range of cooking vessels. However, gas hobs can be more costly to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more susceptible than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the flame that is open and ensure that your stove is secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs, a different option for kitchens employs electric elements beneath a ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based items. They take longer to cool and heat up than other hobs and aren't easy to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, but they feature a filament lamp that heats the surface. They are more energy-efficient however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs offer more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some having touchscreen controls, while others have physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs are a modern alternative to traditional stovetops employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other kinds of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and more evenly heat distribution. In addition induction hobs are simpler to clean than other types of hobs because they have no grates or burners exposed. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and are not suitable for cookware with a heavy bottom.
Safety
Hobs can be a dangerous part of your kitchen if you do not take the necessary precautions. Unattended cooking pans and not properly cleaning them can lead to fires that could 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 could cause damage or shatter cookware, which can cause fire hazards. Fortunately, the majority of hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems use power modulation to ensure that the heat output is constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components, and the surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs, the technology is considered safe to use. These EMF aren't as strong as those generated by mobile phones and the radiation they generate is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types cookware. It's important to make sure that your saucepans and pots are induction-ready before you begin using them. By placing a magnet on the pan's base is a simple way to test. If the pan is able to stick, it is compatible with an induction stove. Using the wrong type of cookware could result in the hob becoming damaged and causing an explosion.
It is also essential to keep children and other people away from the hob while it's in use, as the surface may become extremely hot. You should also use oven gloves when touching handles on the metal pan because they can be extremely hot. It is important to shut off the stove immediately after use, since it could remain hot for a while. If a fire occurs and you are in danger, follow the fire services advice - to call 911 and leave your house as soon as you can.