3 Ways That The Hobs Can Affect Your Life
What is a Hob?
A hob is an essential part of any kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass (which is shatterproof and heatproof) and have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. Electric hobs are cheaper than gas ones, but they require electricity. They can also be used with nearly any type of cookware however, induction hobs need compatible pans that emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a reference to the Old English word "hol" and means hole, pit or a ding. The name is also related to the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which refers to a crag or hill.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits that do domestic chores. They are generally benevolent, however they can be annoying if they are offended. One such hob was the hobthrush found in Runswick Bay in North Yorkshire which was believed to cure whooping cough.
Another popular usage of the term is to refer to a kind of cooking equipment. Hobs are iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob is typically flat and is adorned with cooking elements, such as rings. In some cases the hob is replaced with flat rocks that can be used as a goal for quoits.
The first documented usage of the word "hob" dates back to the early sixteenth century. It was probably acquired in the same period as the female counterpart, hobgoblin, which is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were well-known fairytales and domestic spirits.
Hobs are known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive when they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire for instance, was able bring a cart up its roof. This was a huge issue for the farmer. Moreover, they can be a pain to work with because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mainly found in the UK they can also be found in other countries. Gas and electric hobs are available. They can be controlled with the push of an electronic button, and can be utilized in conjunction with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some hobs can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth making them more convenient to use. These types of features are attracting customers to purchase these devices. Certain models also come with advanced safety features, such as locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are known for their rapid heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surface stays cool to touch and only gets hot when it comes into contact with compatible cookware. This reduces the chance of burning. Additionally, the power is deactivated immediately when the cookware is removed from the cooking zone. These safety features can be especially useful in the home where children or guests may be present.
In addition, induction stoves consume less gas than traditional stovetops, which helps reduce the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models have a 'Stop & Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking zones to their lowest settings when you need to leave the kitchen. Some models have the bridge function that connects two cooking zones using induction into a single zone that is controlled by a single control for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pots and pans or odd-sized ones with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted with simple and intuitive controls that are simple to read and use. A lot of hobs have timers, presets to handle common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs and a Booster function that only utilizes maximum power for the specified time, and a soft "bottom heat" to speed up simmering and help conserve energy.
The smooth, glass-ceramic finish on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also doesn't have the nooks or crannies that could collect dirt over time, like traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to bring style and sophistication to modern kitchens with sleek, modern lines that complement other appliances and décor.
Sensors are utilized in hobs equipped with automatic shut-off functions. They monitor the surface of the hob for indications of excessive heat or explosive substances. The gas supply is then cut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs because it reduces the risk of accidents when cooking. Induction hobs also employ sensors to detect when cookware is not in contact with the oven, which can prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are a myriad of types of hobs to choose from. It's important to choose the one that is suitable for your kitchen. Some common features include: heat control, energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob you select will also impact on your budget, both the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs produce an open flame using natural gas. This heats pots and pans. They are a favorite choice for many home cooks due to their instant heat and can be adjusted to provide precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power interruptions and work with a variety of cooking vessels. However, gas hobs can be 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 open flame, and make sure your stove is secured with grills that are protected.
Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements beneath the glass or ceramic surface to heat your cookware. They offer excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based items. However, they take longer to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hob and can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs resemble electric plates, but they feature a filament lamp which creates heat on the surface. They are more energy efficient however, they take longer to cool down or heat off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control. Some feature touchscreen controls, while others use physical knobs.
Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, resulting in faster heating and more even heat distribution. Additionally they are less difficult to clean than other types of hobs due to the fact that they don't have grates or burners that are exposed. They are not as good in simmering, and are not suitable for use with heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs are an essential component of any kitchen but they can be risky in the event that you do not take proper precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning could cause fires that can destroy your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be a major cause of kitchen fires.
Cookware that is overheated can cause it to break or shatter, which can pose the risk of fire. Fortunately, most hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to prevent overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure the output of heat is constant and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features help safeguard the hob as well as its components, while protecting the surrounding surfaces in the kitchen.
Induction hobs are considered safe for use, even though some people worry about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMF are not as powerful than those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they produce is not ionizing.
Induction hobs only work with specific cookware types It is therefore essential to verify that your cookware and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. A simple method to test this is to put a magnet near the base of the pan. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong cookware can damage your hob or cause fire.
It is also essential to keep children and other people away from the hob while it is in use, since the surface may become extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves whenever you are touching the handles of a metal pan because they can be extremely hot. It is essential to shut off your stove as soon as you finish use, as it can remain hot for some time. If you notice a fire and you are in danger, follow the fire services advice to dial 999 and leave the premises as fast as you can.