Types of Ovens


The hob is at the heart of every kitchen, no matter if you are boiling a kettle or roasted chicken. There are many different sizes and styles available along with a variety of hob types such as electric, ceramic domino, and electric.

Electric hobs are easy to clean and feature smooth surfaces. However, they take a long time to heat up or cool off. They are also only compatible with flat-bottomed pots and include heat indicators.

Ceramic Hobs

Ceramic hobs have revolutionised the cooking process, providing an elegant and fashionable look whilst remaining easy to use. They work with heating elements that are placed under the tempered glass surface to distribute heat quickly and evenly across your cookware. Ceramic hobs are available in a variety of designs, ranging from traditional gas burners and electric zones to more contemporary designs. They are generally equipped with an opaque black surface that is durable and resistant to chips and scratches.

These hobs have flat, smooth surfaces that are easy to clean. You can use any standard kitchen cleaner. These hobs do not have open flames, which means they are safe for families with elderly relatives or children. Typically, they feature the option of a touch or rotary control for added safety and an indicator for residual heat that warns you when the area is still hot after the pan has been removed from the hob.

They cost more than a basic electric hob but cheaper than an induction model and can be a good option for those who do not have gas at their property. Similar to induction models, they can be more efficient if you use cookware with flat bottoms that increase the surface area of contact with elements. Pans and pots that aren't exactly the identical size of your appliance will not be recognised by the heating system so will not function properly.

It is essential to have a qualified electrician install your ceramic hob, since working with electricity can be potentially dangerous if it's not done correctly. Additionally, failing to have your ceramic cooktop professionally installed may invalidate the warranty and could cause potential fire dangers in the future. It's worth it to have peace of mind knowing that your new cooktop is safe to use.

Gas Hobs

Gas cooktops or gas hobs are powered by liquefied petroleum gaz (LPG). They are typically built into kitchen units or countertops. It is comprised of a variety of burners which can be lit manually using a match or lighter and are controlled by a series of knobs that let you manage the heat level while cooking. Gas hobs are more efficient than electric models and can be used to cook in any manner.

Gas hobs have the disadvantage of needing a gas supply and ventilation system to work. This makes them more expensive to set up and could not be as efficient as induction hobs. They also pose a safety risk since they are powered by flammable gases and require regular maintenance to identify gas leaks.

Induction hobs are another popular option. They make use of electromagnetic technology to directly heat your pans. This lets them boil water faster than gas models and also provide precise temperature control. Induction hobs are only compatible with pots that are compatible with induction and cost more than other types of hobs.

Another alternative is a ceramic-glass stove. It has a sleek look and is easy to clean. This kind of hob is available in both electric and induction models. It's a great choice for those looking to create a sleek and modern kitchen. It's important to note that this model can become very hot and take longer to cool and heat than electric or gas models.

Freestanding gas stoves or gas hobs are a more traditional option that is perfect for kitchens with large spaces and open-plan layouts where they can serve as an eye-catching feature. It needs a dedicated area and is installed by professionals. Gas connections can be risky if not handled properly.

Induction Hobs

Induction hobs are an ideal choice for those who prefer an elegant, efficient method to cook. They utilize electromagnetic induction to heat pans. Under the glass surface are coils that, when a compatible pot is placed on them, create a magnetic field which creates an electric current to run through its base. This creates heat that quickly warms the food inside the pan, while the cooktop remains cool.

Induction hobs are also known for being more energy efficient than traditional electric or gas models. They only heat the space where the pan is located, which reduces energy consumption and waste. Induction hobs are often equipped with a safety feature which will shut off the appliance if no pan is detected or if the pan is removed, further minimizing the amount of waste.

Induction models, including gas hobs, have various control options including dial, slide and touchscreen controls. The slider control is like a standard knob on a cooker and lets you alter the power level in one simple movement. Dial controls are like a standard knob, and feature a large dial that is able to be rotated to select the desired setting. Hobs with touchscreens, which are typically found on higher-end induction models that have advanced features, are an alternative option. These hobs have a digital display that is easy to read and adjust.

Induction hobs are available with extractors integrated which work with the hood to clear smoke and steam from the kitchen and prevent condensation and mould. They can be operated in a way that is distinct from the rest and are usually activated through the use of a sensor or a button. They can also be programmed to automatically switch on once an oven is placed over a cooking zone.

The major drawback of induction hobs is they require a specific type of cookware to operate. It is required for the bottom of the pan to have a magnetic base in order to create the electromagnetic process. However it is not guaranteed to work on all models. Cast iron, stainless steel with magnetized bases, and certain nonstick pans can be used with induction stoves. However, it is recommended to always consult with the manufacturer to ensure that your pan is compatible before buying a model.

Domino Hobs

Domino hobs are perfect for those with a smaller kitchen, but need the freedom to experiment with various cooking styles. With two zones of gas, ceramic and induction domino hobs, and even a griddle option from Siemens You can mix and mix to create a modular cooking space that is suited to your needs.

The most basic of hob types Solid plate hobs utilize electrical elements heated by sealed plates, which then heat your cookware. They are affordable, simple to use, and durable. However, they can take a while to warm up and cool down, and are more expensive to run than other hob types.

The Halogen model is a well-known alternative to solid-plate hobs. It uses a row halogen bulbs that are placed on the glass ceramic surface to generate heat. ovens uk of hob is quick and responsive because the bulbs are bright and transfer heat directly into the pan. However, halogen hobs may be prone to damage from scraping against the hard-wearing surface, as well as being less energy efficient than other types of hob.

Induction hobs, which is a new type of hob growing in popularity, utilize electromagnetic technology to heat cooking zones, instead of the surface. Induction hobs are more environmentally green and economical than other types of hobs, however they can be more expensive and require induction compatible cookware.

Ceramic hobs are another stylish and modern option with their flat design seamlessly blending into the worktops to add fluidity to your cooking space. They are also easy to clean, with the ability to wipe clean surfaces that require no special cleaning products. Some models come with a stylish frameless design, and also the option of having dials or touch controls based on your preference.

When buying a new stove, make sure you look for features like overheat protection. This turns off the heating element when it reaches an unsafe temperature. Also, you should look for residual heat indicators that will inform you when your hob is too hot to point of contact and can cause burns. A pause function may temporarily deactivate the cooking zones that are active. This is helpful if you need to leave the kitchen.