Choosing your perfect kitchen hob…

Choosing your perfect hob is an important decision…

After all, it will probably be one of your most frequently used kitchen appliances. From the appearance to the functionality, the hob you choose will certainly make a big impact. But, fear not! We’re here to help, and in this short blog we will explain the various options and talk you through the best solutions to suit your cooking style as well as your home. When it comes to hobs, there are typically four common variations; gas, ceramic, domino and induction. We will talk you through each of these in detail.

Ceramic Hobs

Ceramic hobs use heating elements underneath the ceramic glass. They offer fast heat up times and have a smooth, easy clean surface, making them a great alternative to gas. Many models have electronic touch controls with a heat level indicator for each individual zone, which can be increased and decreased at the touch of a button. They also have a residual heat indicator which is not only easy to use, but also incredibly safe.

Gas Hobs

Gas has always been an incredibly popular choice for hob cooking as they provide precise, controllable heat. Whether you are frying or boiling, you can rely on gas for rapid heat in seconds. There are plenty of options in terms of size. From smaller hobs for compact kitchens to larger models to suit busy households, there are many options to choose from in gas. Normally the most popular finish is stainless steel but black glass models are a popular alternative.

Domino Hobs

Domino hobs or otherwise known as modular hobs, offer ultimate flexibility for the user. For example you might want two gas burners, a continuum induction zone, a teppanyaki plate and a gas wok burner. With a domino hob, you can combine all the hobs you want to suit your needs, creating a bespoke cooking area. There are many configurations available in stainless steel and black glass finishes.

Induction Hobs

Induction hobs are more efficient, faster and safer than other hob options. They are fast becoming one of the most desirable hob choices for a new kitchen. Using magnets to heat the pan directly, no electricity is wasted as the surface of the pan is heated rather than the glass surface around it. An induction hob requires specially designed induction pans, the magnets from the pan create a current which in turn heats up the magnets in the hob. This is how the heat is directed into the pan area only. This also means you can wipe the surface almost instantly after use, making it incredibly safe, especially if you have children.

Air Venting Induction Hobs

Air venting induction hobs are a combined induction hob with a downdraft extractor. The integrated extractor gets rid of all the lingering cooking aromas and vapours directly from the pan whilst you are cooking. The induction element works exactly the same as a normal induction hob, using the magnets to conduct heat directly into the pan. These two in one appliances are a fantastic choice for any kitchen and especially if a separate cooker hood isn’t your style.

Air Venting Gas Hobs

Similarly to air venting induction hobs, an air venting gas hob combines an extractor and hob in one innovative appliance. You can extract steam and strong cooking smells whilst you’re cooking. Air venting gas hobs are a fairly recent option in hob cooking. They have proven popular amongst customers due to their powerful extraction rate alongside precise, controlled gas cooking.

Whether you require something modern in style, seamless in design, easy clean or something a little more traditional, there is a hob style for you and your kitchen. With hundreds of models to choose from, take the time to consider which hob type you require, how you want it to work for you, essentially what you will use it for and how often you will use it. This should help to take the pressure off, and enable you to choose the perfect model for you.

If you require any more information or need some specific model advice, give a member of our sales team a call on  0115 965 1937. They are on hand to help you find your perfect kitchen appliances.