14 Creative Ways To Spend Left-Over Best Hobs Budget
The Best Hobs
Hobs are available in a variety of sizes and materials. The most effective hobs are sturdy, stylish and easy to clean.
Our experts favour gas hobs for their precise flame control and flexibility. Electric models are more efficient and are easier to clean. Look for features such as a timer and power boost which allow you to increase the heat quickly to increase the speed of cooking.
1. Induction Hobs
Induction hobs offer a modern efficient alternative to traditional ceramic or gas models. Instead of heating the entire cooking area as gas hobs do they employ magnetic technology to heat the copper coils that are below the pans. This means that the cooktop remains cool to the point of contact and is more secure to use and easier to clean. They also boil water quicker than traditional kettles and consume less energy. The AEG premium model is a favourite in the HelloFresh test kitchen. It has four cooking zones each with its specific functions and an hour minder. It is smooth and can be cleaned easily and is simple to operate by using the touch-sensitive control panels, but one minor issue (which is common for all induction hobs) is that the distribution of heat may be uneven; however, it is only evident when you are trying to stir fry.
The AEG induction cooker comes with a five-year guarantee and impressive eco credentials. It comes with an A+ energy rating with a low power consumption of 750w for each cooking zone. The "Flux Zone" feature lets the pans to be moved between the four zones, and adjust the power levels in accordance with your pots or saucepans. Meanwhile, the 'Power boost" function increases the output of the hob by 50% to speed up boiling. Other useful features include an auto-shut off function and an 'fryingSensor' to prevent the pan from overheating, so you don't have to worry about burnt food items.
This is a affordable induction cooker that can be easily wired and fitted to a new or existing worktop. The independently controlled cooking zones are clearly marked with the use of a cross or ring to show where the center of the coil is it, and there's also an easy-to-use touch-control panel. It has a wide 'Flux zone', which can accommodate larger pots and pans with ease and is pre-programmed to have power levels set in the front and back zones. This is a great choice when cooking with a variety of pans of different dimensions and shapes that require to be heated up, simmered at the same time, and kept warm.
2. Gas Hobs
Gas hobs (or gas cooktops, if American) are still the most efficient option to cook in your kitchen. They're the ideal choice for boiling water boiling soups and sauces, simmering them cooking eggs, pan-frying eggs, and frying meats. Their popularity stems from their ability to produce high heat levels quickly and precisely, making them ideal for boiling and searing.
The flame indicator's visual display makes it easy to determine the status of each burner at a glance. This is very useful for safety. It's a lot harder to forget about leaving the burner on, or to switch it on by accident, than it is with an electric hob.
Most models have a flat surface, which makes them less difficult to maintain than their ceramic counterparts. There is no material that can protect the Neff T27DS59N0 from splashes or spills. You'll need to be vigilant in cleaning to prevent the Neff T27DS59N0 from becoming stained over time.
Gas hobs are also more energy efficient than their counterparts induction, since they heat up faster and evenly, saving on electricity costs. This is particularly true with vented hobs that combine two appliances into one and remove the need for a hood. This will save space in your kitchen and give it a sleeker look that will be a perfect fit with any style of interior.
Due to their efficiency and ease of use, many home owners prefer to go for gas hobs that are freestanding instead of built-in models. They are simpler to install and provide more flexibility in the event that you want to create a minimalist kitchen designs.
A freestanding model can be connected to a bottle containing liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to provide a different source of energy. This is a great option for those who you want to go green. You'll have to find an LPG stove and boiler that you like before you can think about this alternative. Moreover, these models will require a gas supply and ventilation and regular maintenance to ensure there are no leaks.
3. Sealed Plate Hobs
Induction hobs are a great option if you want a sleek, energy-efficient appliance. They use electromagnetic fields to heat your pans and pots directly while the ceramic surface of the hob keeps it cool. This makes induction hobs more secure (no accidental burns!) and more efficient, as they consume less electricity than gas or electric counterparts. Induction hobs are expensive and you'll have to buy cooking equipment that is compatible with induction.
Ceramic hobs are an excellent option for those who do not need to invest in Induction technology. These sleek and stylish hobs have a smooth, glass-ceramic surface with heating elements hidden underneath, which makes them more appealing to the eye than solid plate hobs and easier to clean as there's no need for a difficult scouring. They heat up faster and are more responsive than solid-plate hobs. However, they do lag behind induction hobs when regards energy efficiency, so if you're conscious of your energy use this might not be the best option for you.
Solid plate hobs, a low-cost option with their basic and reliable design, are ideal for cooking at home. They're quick to get hot and ideal for those who don't require a powerful cooktop, however they're slow to cool down, which is why they're not the best choice for chefs who are able to do multiple tasks. Solid plate hobs also release a lot of residual heat, so they're not as efficient like the other options on this list.
We recommend that you look for reviews on websites of retailers when you're considering a solid-plate hob. This will not only give you an honest insight into the performance of the appliance however, it will assist you in locating the perfect model for your home. For hobs and ovens from Currys has been praised by customers and is finished in durable stainless steel. The black controls blend with other appliances in the kitchen with a sleek and modern look.
4. Electric Hobs
While gas hobs are a popular option for cooks due to their quick heat and simple control, electric hobs offer the benefit of being more energy efficient. Also, with modern electric ceramic and induction hobs offering advanced cooking functions, including power boost settings and precise temperature control, they're a fantastic option for busy households.
When choosing an electric hob choose one that has a sleek design with touch controls and without buttons or dials sticking out. They are easier to clean when they have a smooth surface, which won't scratch or chip. Choose a model that has child locks, hot indicator lights, and residual heat shutoffs to prevent accidents. If you have a smart connected home, you may want to choose a digital display which allows you to manage your hob from afar and receive notifications on your smartphone.
Think about a dual-fuel hob that has both induction and gas burners to give you the ultimate flexibility. The FH-IC7020 hybrid stove includes both, with easy touchscreen controls for the induction zones as well as hard-wearing cast iron pan supports for traditional gas cooking. It also has a timer feature, which allows you to set cooking times for dishes so they're ready when you need them and reduces the risk of overcooking and making food less tasty.
For added convenience, you might want a model that permits you to merge two cooking zones into a single zone for pans of varying sizes and shapes. This can help save space and can be beneficial when cooking with large rectangular vessels like roasting pans. Some hobs also have the option of adding Teppanyaki grills or induction plates to provide additional cooking options.
You'll find cheap own-brand gas hobs for sale starting at PS100 and pricier high-end models that can cost as high as PS1,000. A basic four-zone ceramic or induction hob from a big brand should still cost you not more than PS200. If you'd prefer a glass model there are a variety of excellent alternatives from manufacturers of own brand. But, keep in mind that both ceramic and induction hobs require a particular supply configured with the right cables and breakers to work so you'll need it installed by a certified electrician.