Ten Hobs Myths You Shouldn't Post On Twitter

What is a Hob?

A hob is an essential component of any kitchen. Modern hobs are constructed of glass that is heatproof and shatterproof. They also feature flat cooking zones and 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 magnetic fields.

Origin

Hob is masculine English name that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is related to the Old English word "hol" and refers to a hole, pit or a ding. The name has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon word "hod" which means a crag or hill.

In folklore, hobs are faery spirits who help with household chores. They are usually benevolent but can become a nuisance if offended. One of these hobs was the Hobthrush in Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire. It was able to treat whooping cough.

A type of cooking appliance is a different type of cooking device that is used extensively. Hobs are a type of metal plate used to heat liquids and cook foods. The top surface of a hob is usually flat and has a variety of cooking elements, including rings. In some instances the hob could be replaced by an elongated stone that allows it to be used as a target for quoits.

The earliest documented instances of the term hob date back to the early 16th century. It was probably taken over as the female form, hobgoblin. This is derived from medieval diminutives of Robert or Robin Goodfellow who were celebrated fairies and domestic spirits.

Despite their innocent nature hobs are known to play pranks on people. They can be destructive if they are provoked. For instance one hob in Lincolnshire was able to carry a cart on its roof, which was an enormous inconvenience for the farmer. They can also be difficult to work with due to their speed and strength.

Hobs are mainly used in the UK but they can also be used in other countries, too. They are available in a variety of types, like gas and electric hobs. They can be controlled by just a single button, and are compatible with other kitchen appliances. Additionally, some hobs can connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which makes them easier to use. These types of features are enticed consumers to purchase these devices. Additionally, some models feature advanced security features, like the child lock.

Functions

Induction hobs are famous for their speedy heating energy efficiency, as well as precise temperature control. The glass-ceramic surfaces are cool to the touch and they heat up only when they are in contact with compatible cookware which reduces the risk of burning. Furthermore the power is shut off immediately when the cookware is removed from the cooking area. These safety features are particularly useful in the home where children and guests are likely to be in the kitchen.

Induction hobs use less gas than traditional stovetops. This helps reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions. This makes them ideal for environmentally-conscious households.

Some models have a 'Stop and Go" function that instantly reduces the cooking areas to their lowest settings when you need to leave the kitchen. Certain models come with a bridge feature that joins two induction zones to create one large zone that is controlled by one control. This allows for greater flexibility. The possibility of connecting multiple cooking zones means you can cook with larger or smaller pans and pots.

The power settings on a stove can be adjusted with simple easy-to-use controls that are simple to read and use. Hobs can also be equipped with timers, presets to handle common cooking tasks, automatic switch-offs, a Booster function which only uses the maximum power for the specified duration, and a gentle "bottom heat" to cut down on simmer time and save energy.

The smooth, glass-ceramic-like surface on an electric hob makes it simple to clean. It also does not have the nooks or crannies that could collect dirt over time, as with traditional gas burners. Fotile electric hobs were designed to add elegance and class to modern kitchens. They are sleek and have modern lines that blend well with other appliances and décor.

Sensors are employed in hobs with automatic shut-off features. They scan the surface of the hob for indications of abnormal heat, or explosive substances. The gas supply is then automatically cut off to prevent injury and fire. This feature is particularly important for gas hobs since 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, which can prevent electrical shocks.

Types

There are many different types of hobs to choose from. It is important to select the one that is suitable for your kitchen. The most common features are heat control and energy efficiency, cookware compatibility and safety. The type of hob you select will affect your budget - both the initial cost as well as the ongoing costs.

Gas hobs generate an open flame using natural gas. This heats pans and pots. They are a preferred choice for home cooks because they offer instant heat and can be adjusted to offer precise temperature control. They are also not affected by power failures and can be used with a large range of cooking vessels. Gas hobs are more expensive to operate and require regular maintenance like cleaning the grates. In addition, they can be more susceptible to flare-ups that happen accidentally, so you need to be mindful of the flame's openness and ensure that the stove is adequately protected by grills that are protected.

Plate hobs are a traditional kitchen appliance that utilizes electric elements that are placed beneath glass or ceramic surfaces to heat your cookware.  ovens  provide excellent heat distribution and are economical for flat-based items. They take longer to heat and cool than other types of hobs and aren't easy for cleaning.

Halogen hobs resemble electric plate hobs but feature a filament bulb that 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, with some featuring touch-based controls while others have physical knobs that you can turn.

Induction hobs utilize electromagnetic induction to heat cookware. This technology is more efficient, which results in faster heating as well as a more uniform distribution of heat. Additionally, induction hobs are easier to clean than other kinds of hobs since they have no grates or burners exposed. They are not as good in the process of simmering, and might not be suitable for use with heavy-bottomed pots.

Safety

Hobs can be a risky part of your kitchen if you fail to make the necessary precautions. Unattended pans and improper cleaning could cause fires that could damage your kitchen or cause harm to you or others. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service warns that hobs could be an important cause of kitchen fires.

Overheating can damage or even break cookware, which could cause fire hazards. The majority of hobs have safety features that keep track of operating temperatures to avoid overheating. These systems use power modulation as well to ensure that heat output is constant and does not exceed safe limits. These features shield 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 like those generated by mobile phones, and their radiation is non-ionising.

Induction hobs only work with specific types of cookware, so it's important to check whether your pots and pans are ready for induction prior to using them. A simple method to test this is to hold a magnet near the base of the pan. If it sticks the pan is compatible with induction hobs. The wrong cookware can damage your hob or cause fire.

It is also important to keep children and other persons away from the hob while it is being used, as the surface may become extremely hot. It is recommended to wear oven gloves when touching metal pan handles because they can be extremely hot. Also, it is crucial to turn your oven off immediately after use because they can remain hot for a while. Follow the instructions of the fire department and call 999 as fast as you can in the event that there is an emergency fire.