The Story Behind Hobs Will Haunt You For The Rest Of Your Life!
The Story Behind Hobs Will Haunt You For The Rest Of Your Life!
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital element in every kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass that is shatterproof and heatproof. They also feature flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They use electric energy however they can be less expensive than gas hobs. Induction hobs are compatible with virtually any type of cookware. However, they require compatible pans which emit a magnetic field.
Origin
Hob is a masculine English name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is related to Old English "hol", which means hole, pit or a ding. The name is also derived from the Anglo-Saxon term "hod" which means a crag, hill, or a the crag.
In folklore, hobs are faery spirits that do domestic chores. They are usually benevolent but they can be a nuisance if they are offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush found in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It was able to treat whooping cough.
A type of cooking device is another common use. A hob is a metal plate that is used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top surface is usually flat and is adorned with a variety of cooking elements like rings. In certain instances, the hob can be replaced by a flat rock which can serve as a quoits goal.
The earliest documented instances of the term hob date to the 16th century. It was probably acquired in the same timeframe as the feminine form hobgoblin, which is derived from the medieval diminutive of Robert or Robin Goodfellow, who were well-known fairytales and domestic spirits.
Hobs are well-known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive if they are provoked. One hob in Lincolnshire for instance was able to put a cart onto its roof. This was a huge issue for the farmer. They are also difficult to work with because of their speed and strength.
Although hobs are mostly found in the UK they are also used in other countries. Electric and gas hobs are available. They can be controlled with one button and can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs are connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth making them easier to use. These features are attracting buyers. Some models also have advanced safety features such as a lock for children.
Functions
Induction hobs are famous for their rapid heating energy efficiency, as well as precise temperature control. Their glass-ceramic surfaces remain cool to the touch and are heated only when they come into contact with compatible cookware that reduces the chance of burning. The power is shut off immediately when cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features can be especially useful in the home where children or guests could be present.
In addition, induction stoves require less gas than traditional stoves, which reduces household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Certain models have the 'Stop and Go' function, which instantly reduces all cooking areas to the lowest setting to make it easier when you must leave the kitchen. Some models feature bridge features that connect two induction zones to create one large one controlled by one control. This gives you more flexibility. The capability to connect multiple cooking zones allows you to cook using larger or unusual-sized pans and pots.
The power settings on a hob can be adjusted with simple, intuitive controls that are simple to read and use. Many also offer timers, pre-sets to typical cooking functions, automatic switch-off, a "Booster" function that makes use of the maximum power for the amount of time, and an easy 'bottom heat' to reduce simmering times and help conserve energy.
Moreover, the smooth, glass-ceramic finish of an electric hob is easy to clean and does not have the nooks and crevices of gas burners that are conventional, which can accumulate dirt and grime with time. Fotile electric hobs have been designed to add elegance and class to the modern kitchen. They have sleek, modern lines that complement other kitchen appliances and decor.
Hobs that have automatic switch-off functions have sensors that scan the surface of the hob for indications of unusual temperature or explosive substances, automatically shutting off the gas supply to avoid burns and injuries. This feature is crucial for gas hobs as it mitigates the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs also have sensors to determine if cookware isn't in contact with the oven, which can prevent electrical shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hobs available, so it's important to consider which one is right for your kitchen. Common features include: heat control and energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob that you choose will also have an impact on your budget - both in the initial cost as well as running costs.
Gas hobs produce an open flame by using natural gas. They heat pans and pots. They are a popular option for many cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. Additionally, they hob and oven are unaffected by power outages and can be used with many cooking appliances. Gas hobs are more expensive to run 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 make sure your stove is protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements that are placed beneath glass or ceramic surfaces to heat cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are affordable for flat-based items. However, they are slower to heat up and cool down than other types of hobs, and they can be difficult to clean.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plate hobs but feature filament bulbs that heat the surface. They are more efficient in energy use, but still take longer to heat up or cool off. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of temperature control, with some offering control buttons that are touch-based, while others come with physical knobs that you can turn.
Induction hobs are an innovative alternative to traditional stovetops employing electromagnetic induction to warm your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other types of hobs, which results in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. In addition, induction hobs are easier to clean than other kinds of hobs because they have no grates or burners that are exposed. They're not as effective in the process of simmering, and may not be suitable to use with heavy-bottomed cookware.
Safety
Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you fail to make the necessary precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning can lead to fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to you or anyone else. That's why Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service has been warned that stoves are one of the main causes of kitchen fires in the UK.
Overheating can damage or even break cookware, which could cause fire hazards. Fortunately, the majority of hobs come with safety systems that monitor the operating temperature to avoid overheating. These systems also use power modulation to ensure that the output of heat is consistent and doesn't exceed safe limits. These features safeguard the hob, its components and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
Although some people are worried about electromagnetic fields (EMF) from induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. These EMF aren't as strong as those produced by mobile phones, and the radiation they generate is non-ionising.
Induction hobs work only with certain types of cookware. It is important to make sure that your saucepans and pots are ready for induction before you begin using them. Placing a magnet near the pan's base is a straightforward method to test. If the pan stays it is compatible with an induction stove. Making the wrong choice of cookware can lead to the hob becoming damaged and causing a fire.
It is also important to keep children and other people away from the hob while it's in use, as the surface may become extremely hot. It is also recommended to use oven gloves to touch handles of the pan made of metal because they can be extremely hot. Finally, it's crucial to turn your oven off straight after use as they can remain hot for a long time. Follow the advice of the fire department and dial 999 as quickly as you can in the event that there's an incident of fire.