How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen

If you're in the market for a new oven or hob we've got the dimensions and features to suit your kitchen.

Generally simple to use and durable, solid plate hobs have sealed metal plates that cook your cookware. They're ideal for flat-based products and are economical to run.

Origins

Ovens are utilized in kitchens all over the world to bake and roast food items. They are typically powered by electricity or gas with bottle gas models available in some markets however ovens can additionally use other fuels like charcoal or wood. In many homes the oven is usually surrounded by a kitchen hob, which is where food can be cooked. The difference between a stove and an oven is that a hob has burners that can be switched off and on, whereas an oven has an enclosure in which food is heated in the center.

The first ovens were massive 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 controlling the heat to keep an even temperature and could easily be shared among family members. However, these open pits and furnaces had three major drawbacks - they were risky because of the smoke and flames that could be seen, they consumed a lot of fuel (wood) and was difficult to control the cooking process and heat.

The solution was found in ovens that resembled fireplaces, with a chimney that shut off the fire to lessen its intensity and smoke and make it easier to manage. They were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, and were often found in households 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 kitchens at home. This was partly because the oven was essential, since it was safer and more efficient to cook food in an oven than over an open flame or in a cauldron. However, it is believed that the advent of the oven coincided with the changes in cooking techniques and recipes, which led to a greater concentration on meat and casseroles.

In certain recipes, like those of Nigella she may suggest cooking a pan "on the hob". However this could be confusing since a hob in British English is an oven. The North American equivalent is a range or cooktop, and it could be confusing if not familiar with British terminology.

Functions

Oven functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed options which control the way that oven's heating elements and the fan function based on the recipe you're making. They are designed to allow you to cook food more efficiently and effectively, while preserving the taste and texture.

Ovens are equipped with a traditional design that heats food from the top to the bottom. They also have a fan-assisted option that makes use of a built-in fan to circulate air around the oven for better even and faster heating. There are a variety of options for oven and hob functions. It is essential to know the differences to determine which one is right for you.

A fan-powered oven is perfect to cook a variety of food items. It can heat the oven more evenly than a conventional oven, and is great for grilling, baking and roasting. It is especially useful for cooking dishes such as pizza and pie that require a quick, clean finish. The Fan-Assisted setting comes with a zigzag at the top and a line on the bottom. It can help save up to 40% of cooking time.

Some ovens come with grilling features that combine heat from the top and bottom of the oven, giving your food the perfect char. This mode is perfect for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and can be identified by straight lines and zigzag lines, such as Fan-Assisted. This type of oven is usually utilized on the bottom rack of the oven, so be careful to observe the temperature settings of your oven to prevent overcooking.

Other oven functions include slow cooking Efficiency making bread and pastries, proofing them, and other things. They are typically preprogrammed to provide a controlled warm atmosphere to help rise dough and develop flavors.

Certain ovens have a steam function that is perfect for making healthy and nutritious meals. It provides a low level of moisture to your food, which preserves tenderness and adds a delicate, rich taste to poultry, vegetables baked products and even custards. Utilizing this feature is as easy as pouring water into the reservoir inside your oven and turning it on, with certain models even automatically altering the amount of steam to depend on the temperature you select.

Types

There are a myriad of ovens and hobs that are available on the market. These vary from traditional gas models to contemporary electric models. Choosing one that meets your requirements and preferences can make a big difference in how it is easy to cook in your home. It is worthwhile to think about features like self-cleaning and smart functions too.

Gas ovens are a common choice and can be found in all kitchens. They are easy to use because they come with rings on the burners as well as an grate on which pans rest which emits heat. Gas best hobs Uk are also known to be energy efficient and offer precise temperature control, meaning they could reduce your utility costs. However, they may take longer to heat up than electric hobs and are difficult to clean if covered in a layer of residue.

Electric hobs are available in a variety of different styles that include ceramic and induction. Induction hobs may be slightly more expensive to purchase but are considered to be energy efficient since the hob only produces heat when you place a pan over it. They are also safe for children and are able to heat fairly quickly. However, they do not always cook uniformly and can take a long time to cool down.

Plate hobs, also an essential in the kitchen, come with an array of cooking zones that are all electrically powered on a flat surface. They are positioned under the cabinets in your kitchen. They have a sleek, modern design that is perfect for the majority of kitchens. They are difficult to clean because they contain multiple zones of uneven heating. If they are not properly cleaned, they can leave burn marks.

The most popular type is the built-in single-oven. These can be installed either beneath a hob, or on the floor in an built-in cabinet. They are often big enough to hold a large meal and can come in different sizes, so be certain to consider your family's size when selecting an oven. There are also ovens with additional features, such as grill or steam features.

Installation

If you're planning to install a new oven or replacing one you have, it may be worth getting an electrician to manage the installation for you. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly installed and your new appliance is safe to use. An experienced electrician will be able to follow local regulations to ensure that your installation is in line with all safety regulations.

You'll need all the tools and materials you require prior to beginning the installation process of your new electric oven and stove. This includes wire nuts, electrical tape, a screwdriver as well as an electrical circuit tester and conduit. Make sure you check the electrical supply at your home to make sure it can handle an electric hob or oven.

To install an oven or hob that is new, you must first take them out of the old ones. Find the bolts or screws holding the old appliance, and then remove them with care. After the appliance has been removed, the area where the new one will be installed should be free of obstructions. The junction box must be installed, with the conduit connected to the electrical supply. This must be done in accordance with instructions of the manufacturer and any applicable local regulations.

Once the electrical connections have been completed after which the oven and hob can be lifted into position. The fitter will then utilize the clips that came with the hob to secure it to the wall and ensure that it's in line with the worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to ensure it is operating properly.

It's best oven to hire a professional to install a gas stove and oven. Gas installation is not as simple as plugging in an electric best oven uk. A CORGI registered engineer is required to connect the pipes. It's also an excellent idea to get a cooker hood installed in the event that you don't have one, as this will allow you to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.