Whether you’re looking for an electric, induction or gas hob there’s a lot to think about. Different types offer different benefits including precise heat control and easy-to-clean surfaces.
Sealed electric plate hobs are affordable, easy to clean and have a wide range of features such as power markers and residual heat indicators. Some models also have dual zones that operate in two size options to accommodate a wider selection of pans.
Integrated safety features
Unlike gas hobs, which require an open flame to ignite and heat the hob surface, electric ceramic hobs use electricity only when a pan is placed on the zone. A copper coil beneath the zone transfers energy directly between it and the base of the cookware. This method of heating is very responsive and the cooking zone cools down quickly. It is also easy to clean.
Many electric ceramic hobs come with automated features like child lock, bridge zones, and okospeed technology. This feature is designed to allow the hob to be used more effectively by reducing power consumption when not in use. In addition to this, some models have the ability to automatically switch off after a set time.
Induction hobs are a more modern alternative to traditional gas hobs, but they are not without their disadvantages. They can be expensive to buy and they may not be compatible with your existing cookware. Moreover, you’ll need to purchase a special set of pans to take advantage of their fast heating and cooling features. The smooth surface of induction hobs also makes them easier to clean than other types of hob. You can find a wide range of options from leading manufacturers including Bosch and Neff. These hobs offer streamlined designs and touch controls for convenience.
Quick cooling down hob
Induction hobs are incredibly efficient, and unlike gas or ceramic/electric models they don’t heat the hob surface – just a magnetic coil underneath. Only when you place a compatible pan on the ring does the heating magic happen. This means that there’s far less wasted energy and cooking is generally faster and more accurate than on a gas hob. If you opt for a flexinduction model like this Bosch PUE611BF1B, which has four generously proportioned cooking zones, it can activate the entire area without the need to use individual rings. This allows you to use griddles, teppan yakis and other larger pans. It also has a smart feature known as ‘perfect pan detection’ that lets you know if the hob isn’t using the right size of pan for optimal results.
Once you’ve finished cooking, most modern hobs have quick cooling down features that turn off the burner automatically when you pick up a pan. They’ll also flash a message to remind you that the hob is hot to the touch and warn you to let it cool down before touching. Some have residual heat indicators, which will switch off a burner if you’ve left a pan on for too long. Others have timers or heat & time limiters to prevent overcooking.
