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 constructed of glass which is shatterproof and heatproof. They also have flat cooking zones and are easy to clean. They run on electricity, however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. They also work with almost any type of cookware however, induction hobs need compatible pans that emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine name that is a name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or a dent. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means a crag, a hill, or a"crag.
In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who perform household chores. They are usually benevolent but they can become a nuisance when offended. One of them was the hobthrush of Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
Another popular usage of the term is to refer to a specific type of cooking device. Hobs are a type of metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top surface is usually flat, and has several cooking elements, including rings. In some cases the hob is replaced with a flat rock that is used as a quoits goal.
The first documented uses of the term hob go back to the early 16th century. It is likely that it was acquired during the same time frame as the female counterpart hobgoblin. It originates from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were celebrated fairy and domestic spirit.
Despite their benign nature hobs can play pranks on people. They can also be destructive if provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire for instance, was able place a cart on its roof. This was a major issue for the farmer. They can also be difficult to work with due to their speed and strength.
Hobs are mainly used in the UK, they can be used in other countries too. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled by a single button and can be paired with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These kinds of features are enticed consumers to purchase these devices. Some models are also equipped with advanced safety features like the lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are renowned for their speedy heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to the touch and heat up only when in contact with compatible cookware that reduces the chance of burning. Furthermore, the power is deactivated immediately after the cookware has been removed from the cooking zone. These safety features are particularly beneficial in homes where children or guests might be present.
In addition, induction hobs consume less gas than traditional stoves, which reduces the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models feature the 'Stop and Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting to make it easier when you have to leave the kitchen. Some models have bridge features that connect two induction zones into a large zone controlled by one control. This provides greater flexibility. The possibility of connecting multiple cooking zones also means you can cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted using simple and intuitive controls that are simple to read and use. A lot of hobs have timers, presets for the most common cooking tasks, automatic shut-offs and a Booster function which only uses the maximum power for the required time, and a gentle "bottom heat" to reduce simmering time and conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electric hob is easy to clean and doesn't contain the nooks and crannies of traditional gas burners which are prone to collecting dirt and grime over time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring design and elegance to modern kitchens with modern, sleek lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Sensors are used in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off features. They check the surface of the hob for signs of unusual heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically cut off to avoid injury and fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs, as it helps reduce the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to know when the cookware isn't touching it. This can protect against electric shocks.
Types
There are many different kinds of hobs available, so it's crucial to determine the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some features include heating control energy efficiency; compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you select will have an impact on your budget, both the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs use natural gas to create an open flame that cooks your pans and pots. They are a preferred option for many cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. They are also not affected by power failures and can be used with a wide range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs can also be more prone than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. Be aware of the flame and ensure that your stove is protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs, a different option in the kitchen make use of electric elements on a ceramic or tempered glass surface to heat cookware. They are affordable and provide excellent heat distribution for flat-based products. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hobs and are difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs look similar to electric plates, but they have a filament bulb which creates heat on the surface. This makes them more energy efficient than traditional electric hobs, however, they aren't as quick to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs offer more flexibility in terms of temperature control, with some offering touch-based controls while others have physical knobs that can be turned.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is get more info more efficient, resulting quicker heating and an evenly distributed heat. Induction hobs also have fewer grates and burners exposed which makes 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 part of any kitchen but they can be risky if you don't take precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning can lead to fires that can destroy your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. This is why the Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has warned that hobs are among of the leading causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can damage or even break cookware, which could cause fire hazards. Many hobs come with safety systems that monitor operating temperatures 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 and its components, as well as making sure that there are no fire hazards on the surrounding surfaces in the kitchen.
While some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs however, the technology is safe to use. These EMFs aren't as strong and powerful as those produced by mobile phones, and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with certain types cookware. It is important to ensure that your pots and saucepans are ready for induction before you use them. Placing a magnet near the base of the pan is a straightforward method to test. If the pan sticks, it is compatible with an induction hob. The wrong type of cookware can damage your hob or even cause a fire.
Keep children and other people away from the cooking area while it is in use. The surface may get extremely hot. It is also recommended to use oven gloves when touching handles on the metal pan since they are extremely hot. It is also important to turn your stove off straight after use as they may remain hot for a while. If you notice a fire, follow the fire service advice - to call 999 and leave the premises as fast as you can.