This History Behind Hobs Can Haunt You Forever!
This History Behind Hobs Can Haunt You Forever!
Blog Article
What is a Hob?
The hob is a vital element in every kitchen. Modern hobs are made of glass which is shatterproof and heatproof. They also have flat cooking zones that are easy to clean. They are powered by electricity but are less expensive than gas hobs. Induction hobs can be used with virtually any type of cookware. However, they require compatible pans which emit magnetic fields.
Origin
Hob is an English masculine 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 derived from the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means the word "crag" or hill, or a the crag.
In folklore, hobs are faerie spirits who help with household chores. They are generally benevolent, but they can also be a nuisance if offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It could cure whooping-cough.
A cooking device is another common use. A hob is a metal plate used to cook food and heat liquids. The top surface of a hob is typically flat and has a variety of cooking elements, including rings. In some instances, the hob is replaced with flat rocks that is used as a goal for quoits.
The first documented uses of the term hob date back to the early 16th century. It was probably taken over as the feminine form, hobgoblin. It is derived from the medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.
Hobs are well-known for playing games, despite their harmless nature. They can be destructive if they are provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to place a cart on its roof, which was an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. Additionally they can be difficult to work with due their speed and strength.
Although hobs are most commonly found in the UK they can also be used in other countries. They come in a variety of varieties, including electric and gas hobs. They can be controlled with the push of an electronic button, and can be used together with other kitchen appliances. Some hobs can also be connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making them easier to use. These features are attracting consumers. In addition, some models have advanced safety features, for instance locks for children.
Functions
Induction hobs have a reputation for their speedy heating, energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to the touch and they heat up only when in contact with cookware that is compatible which reduces the risk of burning. The power is also deactivated immediately when cookware leaves the cooking zone. These safety features are especially useful in the home where children or guests might be present.
Induction hobs use less gas than stovetops that are traditional. This helps reduce the cost of energy for households and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.
Some models feature a 'Stop & Go' feature, which instantly reduces all cooking zones to the lowest setting to make it easier when you need to leave the kitchen. Some models have bridge functions, which joins two induction cooking zones into a single zone managed by a single controller for greater flexibility. You can also make use of larger pans and pots or odd-sized ones, with the capability of connecting multiple zones.
Simple, intuitive controls are available to adjust the power settings of a hob. They are easy to read and use. Many hobs also have timers, presets for the most common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs as well as a Booster feature which only uses the maximum power for the specified time, and a soft "bottom heat" to cut down on simmer time and help conserve energy.
Furthermore, the smooth, glass-ceramic surface of an electronic hob is easy to clean and doesn't have the nooks and crannies of gas burners that are conventional, which can accumulate dirt and grime over the course of time. Fotile electric hobs are designed to add design and elegance to modern kitchens with modern, sleek lines that blend with other kitchen appliances and decor.
Hobs that have automatic switch-off functions use sensors that monitor the surface of the hob for indications of unusual temperatures or explosive substances, then automatically cutting off the gas supply to avoid injuries and fires. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs, as it helps reduce the risk of accidents during cooking. Induction hobs employ sensors to detect when the cookware isn't in contact it. This will stop electric shocks.
Types
There are several different types of hobs that are available, so it's crucial to think about which one is best suited to your kitchen. The most common features are heat control energy efficiency, compatibility with cookware and safety. The type of hob that you select will also affect your budget - both in the initial cost and also the running costs.
Gas hobs produce an open flame using natural gas. They heat pans and pots. They are a preferred choice for many cooks at home because they provide instant heat and can be adjusted to give precise temperature control. Additionally, they are unaffected by power outages and work well with many cooking appliances. However gas hobs are more costly to operate and require regular maintenance such as cleaning the grates. Gas hobs are also more prone than other types to spontaneous flare-ups. You should be aware of the flame that is open and ensure that the stove is properly protected with protective grilles.
Plate hobs are another traditional kitchen option that uses electric elements under the glass or ceramic surface to heat cookware. These hobs offer good heat distribution and are cost-effective for flat-based items. They are slower to cool and heat than other hobs and aren't easy for cleaning.
Halogen hobs are similar to electric plates, but they have a filament bulb which heats the surface. This makes them more energy-efficient than traditional electric hobs, however, they aren't as fast to heat up or cool down. Ceramic hobs are more flexible in terms of heat control. Some are equipped with touch-based controls, while others use physical knobs.
Induction hobs use electromagnetic induction to heat your cookware. This technology is more efficient than other kinds of hobs, resulting in quicker heating and a more uniform heat distribution. Induction hobs also have less exposed burners and grates making them easier to clean. They are not as good in the process of simmering, and might not be suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.
Safety
Hobs are a crucial part of any kitchen but they can be risky if you don't take precautions. Unsupervised pans and inadvertent cleaning can lead to fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to yourself or anyone else. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs can be a major cause of kitchen fires.
Overheating can cause the cookware to break or shatter, posing a fire risk. The majority of hobs have safety features that monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. These systems also employ power modulation to ensure the heat output is consistent and doesn't exceed the safe limits. These features protect the hob, its components, and surrounding surfaces from fire hazards.
While some people are concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by induction hobs but the technology is safe to use. These EMFs aren't as powerful and effective as those produced by mobile phones and their radiation is not ionizing.
Induction hobs can only be used with specific cookware types, so it's important to check whether your pots and pans are induction-ready prior to using them. Holding a magnet close to the base of the pan is a quick way to test. If it is stuck, the pan is compatible with induction hobs. A cookware Best place to buy oven and hob that is not designed for your needs can damage your hob or cause a fire.
Keep children and others away from the hob when it is being used. The surface may get extremely hot. Likewise, you should use oven gloves when touching handles on metal pans because they can be very hot. Also, it is crucial to turn your oven off immediately after use since they may remain hot for a long time. If you notice a fire, follow the fire service advice - to call 999 and leave your home as fast as you can.