(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/article/images/12736/5799/c/beginners-guide-to-dual-fuel-range-cookers-medium.jpg)The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most durable hobs are sturdy elegant, stylish and easy to clean.
Gas hobs are preferred by our experts due to their versatility and precision control of flames. However, electric hobs can be more efficient in energy use and are also easier to clean. Look for features like power boost and timer which allow you to increase the heat quickly to speed up cooking.
1. Hobs induction
Induction hobs are a modern, efficient alternative to the traditional gas or ceramic models. Instead of heating the entire cooking zone like gas hobs, they use magnetic technology to warm up the copper coils below your pans. The cooktop stays cool to the touch which makes it safer to use and easier to clean. They also cook faster than a traditional kettle and use less energy. The AEG premium kitchen Appliances model is a popular choice in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It comes with four cooking zones each with its distinct functions, as well as a minute timer. It has a smooth surface that can be cleaned easily and is easy to use with the touch control panels, but one small issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat can be uneven, but it is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction hob comes with a good five-year warranty and impressive eco ratings. It is a A+ rating for energy efficiency with the lowest energy consumption of just 775 watts per cooking zone. The 'Flux zone' feature allows you to move your pans around in the four zones and adjust their power levels to suit your pans or pots and the 'Power Boost' function increases the output by 50% to ensure rapid boiling. Other handy features include an auto-shutoff function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent your cooking pan from overheating so you never have to worry about burnt food.
This is an induction cooktop with a low price tag that can be wired to a kitchen worktop or a new one. The cooking zones can be operated independently and are identified with an arrow or cross to indicate the coil's centre. There is also an electronic control panel that can be operated by touch. It has a large “Flux zone” that can accommodate larger pots and pans easily and is pre-programmed so that you have power levels set in the front, middle and rear zones. This is a great choice when cooking with a variety of pans, all different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated, simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) remain the most efficient option for cooking in your kitchen. They are the best for boiling water simmering soups and sauces as well as for frying eggs and meats as well as pan-frying. Their popularity is due to their ability to produce high temperatures quickly and precisely, making them perfect for boiling and searing.
Their visual flame indication also allows users to check the status of each burner at a glance, which is beneficial for safety reasons. With an electric hob, it's much harder to accidentally switch on the burner or forget that it was turned on.
The majority of models have a flat, smooth surface that makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. That said, it seems that there's no material that could stop spills and splashes completely, so you'll need to be on top of cleaning tasks to avoid the Neff T27DS59N0 from fading over time.
Gas hobs are more energy efficient than counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, saving on the cost of electricity. This is particularly true for vented stoves, which combine the two appliances into one unit and eliminate the need for a vent hood. This can help save space in your kitchen, and also create an elegant and modern design that will be able to blend in with any style of interior.
Many homeowners prefer freestanding gas hobs to built-in models because of their efficiency and ease-of-use. They are less difficult to install and provide more flexibility when you are looking to achieve a an elegant kitchen design.
A freestanding model is connected to a bottle of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to offer a renewable energy source. This is an excellent option if you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you think about this option. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation, and regular maintenance to ensure that there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
If you're seeking a sleek and energy-efficient option, an induction hob is definitely the way to go. These hobs are able to heat pots and pans by using electromagnetic fields, while the glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) Induction hobs are safer (no accidental burns!) and more efficient as they use less energy than their electrical or gas counterparts. Induction hobs can be costly and you'll have to buy cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are a good alternative for those who don't need to invest in technology of induction. These stylish and sleek hobs feature a smooth glass-ceramic top with hidden heating elements. They are more aesthetically appealing and easy to clean than solid plate hobs because they don't need lengthy scouring. Additionally, they heat up faster than solid plate hobs and are more adaptable to the needs of your cook. They do not have the same energy efficiency as induction hobs, so they might not be the best choice if are concerned about your energy usage.
Solid plate hobs are the best budget option, with a simple and reliable design that's perfect for cooking in the everyday. They're easy to heat up and are ideal for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they're not quick to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for chefs who love to be multitasking. Solid plate hobs are also not as efficient in energy as other options.
If you're thinking of buying a sturdy plate hob, we recommend choosing one that has been rated by customers on the websites of retailers. This will not only give you a true insight into the performance of the model and will help you find one that is right for your home. For example this Neff CSPHOBX15 Electric Solid Plate Hob from Currys has been highly rated by customers and is made of long-lasting stainless steel. The black controls are a perfect match with other kitchen appliances, giving it a an elegant and minimalist look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a favourite choice for many cooks due to their instant heat and easy control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy-efficient. Modern electric ceramic and induction stoves offer advanced cooking features like power boost settings and temperature control. They're a great option for busy households.
When choosing an electric hob, look for one that's streamlined with touch controls, and no dials or buttons sticking out. They are easier to clean with a flat surface that doesn't scratch or chip. Select a model with child locks and hot indicator lights and residual heat shutoffs to avoid accidents. If you're an intelligent home, opt for an electronic display that gives you remote control and notifications via your smartphone, so you can control your hob with ease.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that comes with both induction and gas burners for ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove comes with both, and has intuitive touchscreen controls for the induction zones, and durable cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. The timer feature allows you to set cooking times to ensure that food is ready at the time you require it. This minimizes the chance of overcooking, and makes your food less delicious.
To make cooking more convenient For added convenience, a model that has two separate cooking pans in different shapes and sizes is the best option. This will save space and is ideal if you often cook using large rectangular cooking vessels, like roasting pans. In addition, some hobs come with the option to add induction plates or teppanyaki grills for additional cooking options.
Gas hobs are available at different costs, from as little as PS100 to high-end models costing up to PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic hob or induction model from a major brand shouldn't cost more than PS200. And if you want a stylish glass model, it shouldn't break the bank either as there are some top options from own brands. Be aware that ceramic and induction hobs require special supplies with the correct breakers and cables to function, so you'll need it installed by an electrician.