How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen

We offer a variety of styles, sizes and features that will fit in with any kitchen.

It is generally easy to use and durable solid plate hobs feature sealed metal plates that heat your cookware. These are good for flat-based products and can be economical to run.

Origins

Ovens are commonly used in kitchens all over the world to bake and roast food items. They are generally powered by electricity or gas. The models with gas bottles are available in some markets. However, ovens can also be powered by other fuels such as charcoal or wood. In many homes the oven is located with a hob where food can be cooked. A hob is a burner that can be turned on and off. An oven is a closed space that heats food in the middle.

The first ovens were large brick and mud structures that had a fire for heating food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat and other dishes as they were relatively good at keeping the heat at an even temperature and could easily be shared amongst family members. However, these open pits and furnaces had three major disadvantages - they were risky because of the open flame and smoke and they used a lot of fuel (wood), and it was difficult to control the heat and cooking process.

The solution was found in ovens that resembled fireplaces, with a chimney that closed off the fire to decrease the amount of smoke and intensity, and make it easier to manage. They were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, and were typically found in household that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen area with a chimney, as well as having more than one fireplace and oven.

By the mid-19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in home kitchens. This was largely due to the fact that the oven was essential. It was more secure and efficient for people to cook their food over an open flame or in the cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of the oven coincided with the evolution of cooking techniques and recipes, which led to a greater emphasis on casseroles and meat.

In certain recipes, like those made by Nigella she might suggest leaving a pan "on the hob". However, this can be misleading because a hob used in British English is an oven. The North American equivalent is a range or cooktop, so it can be confusing if you are not familiar with the British terminology.

Functions

Oven functions, also known as cooking modes, are pre-programmed choices that control the way in which the oven's heating elements and fan operate depending on your recipe. They are designed to help you cook food more efficiently and effectively while preserving the taste and texture.

Most ovens come with a conventional mode that heats from the top and bottom to bake or roast food items. There is also a fan-assisted option that makes use of an integrated fan to circulate air around the oven, allowing for an even and faster heating. There are a variety of oven and hob functions to pick from, and it's important to be aware of the different features to find out which ones are right for your needs.

A fan-assisted oven function is perfect for cooking a variety of foods. It can heat the oven more evenly than a conventional oven, and is perfect for grilling, baking and roasting. It's particularly helpful for dishes that need an immediate, crisp finish, such as pizza or pies. The Fan-Assisted setting comes with a zigzag on top and a line on the bottom. It can cut down up to 40 percent of cooking time.

Certain ovens have grilling functions that combine the heat from the bottom of the oven with the top, giving your meals a delicious charcoal. This is a great option for kebabs of meat and vegetables and can be identified by straight lines and zigzag lines, like Fan-Assisted. This type of oven is typically placed on the lower shelf of the oven. Be sure to verify the temperature settings of your oven to prevent overcooking.

Other oven functions include slow cooking, proofing bread and pastries and many more. These best ovens are usually programmed to create a warm and controlled environment that will facilitate the rising of dough and allow your food develop amazing flavours.

There are ovens that have Steam functions that are ideal for making healthy, nutritious meals. Steam adds a delicate and rich flavor to baked goods, poultry, vegetables and custards. This feature is activated by pouring water in the reservoir of your oven, and turning it on. Certain models can alter the amount of steam automatically depending on the temperature selected.

Types

There are a variety of ovens and hobs that are available that range from traditional gas to modern electric models. Selecting one that is suitable for your requirements and preferences can make a huge difference in how easy it is to cook at home. Consider features like self-cleaning capabilities or smart functions.

Gas ovens are a common option and are suitable for most kitchens. They typically come with burners with rings and an grate that the pans sit on which emits heat, making them simple to use. Gas hobs also tend to be energy efficient and offer precise temperature control, which means they could reduce your utility bills. They may take longer to heat up than electric hobs and may be more difficult to clean, due to residue.

Electric hobs come in many different designs that include ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are a little more expensive to purchase, but they are considered to be energy efficient because the hob only produces heat when you place a pan on it. They are also safe for children and are able to heat fairly quickly. However, they don't always cook evenly and may take a while to cool down.

Plate hobs, which are also an essential kitchen appliance, have a variety of cooking zones that are all electric on a flat surface. They sit beneath your kitchen cabinets. They provide a stylish modern design that will look elegant and fit in with the majority of kitchens. They are difficult to clean since they contain multiple zones of uneven heating. If they are not properly cleaned, they can leave burn marks.

The most common model is the built-in single best oven uk. They can be placed under a hob or at eye-level in a built-in cabinet. When selecting an oven, take into consideration the size of your family. They can be big enough to accommodate a huge meal and come in different sizes. They can also be found with additional options, such as the grill or steam function.

Installation

It could be worthwhile to hire an electrician to install the new oven for you, or replace an old one. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly set up and that your new appliance is safe to use. A licensed electrician will be able to follow local regulations and ensure that your installation is in line with all applicable safety codes.

You'll require all the tools and supplies you need before you begin the installation of your brand new electric hob and oven. These include wire nuts, an electric tape, screwdriver as well as an electrical circuit tester and conduit. Make sure you check the electrical supply at your home to make sure it is able to handle an electric hob or oven.

To install a new oven and hob first, you must take them out of the old ones. To do this, find the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance and remove them with care. After the appliance has been removed, the area in which the new one will be installed must be free of any obstructions. Next a junction box must be installed and connected to the electrical supply via conduit. This must be done in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer and any applicable local regulations.

Once the electrical connections are established after which the oven or hob is then lowered into the desired position. The fitter will utilize the clips that came along with the hob in order to secure it and ensure it's flush with your work surface. The fitter will then test the hob to ensure it is functioning properly.

If you're installing a gas hob and oven, it's a good idea to engage a professional to do the job. Gas installation is not as simple as plugging in an electric oven. A CORGI certified engineer must connect the pipework. Installing a cooker hood is also an option to consider if you do not already have one. This will allow air to circulate in your kitchen and is required under Part F of the Building Regulations.