15 Things You've Never Known About Hobs

What is a Hob? A hob is an essential component 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. They can also be used with nearly every cookware type, but induction hobs require compatible pans that emit a magnetic field. Origin Hob is an English masculine name that has been used since the Middle Ages. It is related to Old English “hol”, which translates to hole, pit or a dent. The name also comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “hod” which means a crag, hill, or a the crag. In folklore, hobs can be described as faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are usually kind, but they can also be a nuisance if offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It is believed to cure whooping-cough. A type of cooking appliance is another popular use. Hobs are iron plate used to cook and heat liquids. The top of a hob will usually be flat and is adorned with cooking elements, such as rings. In some cases, the hob can be replaced by flat stones to permit it to serve as a quoits target. The first documented uses of the term hob date back to the early 16th century. It was likely taken over as the feminine form hobgoblin. This is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits. Despite their innocent nature hobs can play amusing pranks on people. They can be destructive when provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire, for example was able to place a cart on its roof. This was a huge issue for the farmer. They are also difficult to use due to their speed and strength. While hobs are mostly used in the UK but they can also be used in other countries too. Gas and electric hobs are available. They can be controlled with just a single button, and can be paired with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These types of features are enticed buyers to buy these devices. Additionally, some models feature advanced security features, like locks for children. Functions Induction hobs are renowned for their quick heating, energy efficiency and precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and heat up only when they are in contact with cookware compatible, which minimizes the risk of burns. The power is shut off immediately after the cookware has left the cooking zone. These safety features are especially useful in the home, where children and guests may be present in the kitchen. Induction hobs also consume less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps lower the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households. Certain models have the 'Stop and Go' function that instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting to make it easier when you have to leave the kitchen. Certain models come with a bridge feature that joins two induction zones into a large zone controlled by a single control. This allows for greater flexibility. The possibility of connecting multiple cooking zones also allows you to cook with larger or unusual-sized pans and pots. Simple, intuitive controls are available to alter the power settings of a hob. They are easy to read and use. Some also have timers, pre-sets to common cooking functions, automatic shut-off, a 'Booster' function that uses maximum power only for the required amount of time and an easy 'bottom heat' to speed up simmering and help conserve energy. The smooth, glass-ceramic-like surface on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also does not have the nooks and crevices that could collect dirt in time, as do conventional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add design and elegance to the modern kitchen, with sleek, contemporary lines that complement other appliances and decor. Sensors are utilized 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 shut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is crucial for gas hobs, as it helps reduce the risk of accidents while cooking. Induction hobs also use sensors to determine if cookware isn't in contact with the hob and stop electrical shocks. Types There are a variety of hobs to choose from. ovens is important to select the best one for your kitchen. Some common features include: heat control, energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of stove you select will also have an impact on your budget, both the initial cost as well as the ongoing costs. Gas hobs generate an open flame using natural gas. They heat pans and pots. They are a popular choice for many home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. They are also unaffected by power failures and can be used with a broad variety of cooking equipment. However, gas hobs can be more expensive to run and require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more vulnerable to flare-ups that happen accidentally which is why you must be mindful of the open flame and ensure the stove is adequately protected with protective grilles. Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements beneath a ceramic or glass surface to heat your cookware. They provide excellent heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based kitchen appliances. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other kinds of hob and can be difficult to clean. Halogen hobs are similar to electric plate hobs, but they have a filament bulb that heats the surface. They are more energy efficient however they require more time to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some are equipped with control knobs that are touch-based while others have physical knobs. Induction hobs use electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, leading to faster heating and a more evenly distributed heat. Induction hobs also have less exposed burners and grates, making them easier to clean. However, they aren't as effective at simmering and may not be suitable for heavy-bottomed cookware. Safety Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen, but they can be risky if you don't take precautions. Leaving pans unattended and not properly cleaning them can lead to fires that could damage your kitchen and cause injury to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that stoves are an important cause of kitchen fires. Cookware that is overheated can cause it to be damaged or shatter, posing an fire risk. Fortunately, many hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems use power modulation to ensure that the heat output is constant and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards. Induction hobs are deemed safe to use even though some are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF). These EMFs aren't as strong and powerful as those generated by mobile phones, and their radiation is non-ionising. Induction hobs are only compatible with certain types of cookware So it's essential to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready before making use of them. One way to check this is to hold an iron near the bottom of the pan. If the pan stays it is compatible with an induction stove. A cookware that is not designed for your needs can damage your hob or cause fire. It is also important to keep children and other persons away from the stove when it's in use, as the surface may become extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves when touching metal pan handles as they can also be very hot. Also, it is important to turn your stove off immediately after use since they may remain hot for a long time. Follow the guidelines of the fire service and call 999 as soon as you can in the event that there is an incident of fire.