Why Oven And Hob Is Right For You

How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen

Whether you're looking for a new oven or hob we've got the sizes and features to match your kitchen.

It is generally easy to use and durable solid plate hobs are sealed metal plates that heat your cookware. They are suitable for flat-based products and can be cost-effective to run.

Origins

Ovens are commonly used in kitchens across the globe to bake and roast foods. They are generally powered by gas or electricity. Bottle gas models are available in some markets. However ovens can also be powered by other fuels like wood or charcoal. In many homes, the oven is enclosed by a hob that food items can be cooked. Hobs are essentially a stove that can be turned on or off. An oven is a sealed enclosure that heats food in the middle.

The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures, which contained the ability to burn in order to cook food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat, and other dishes as they were capable of containing the heat to maintain an even temperature, and could be easily shared amongst family members. However, open pits and furnaces came with three major drawbacks - they were dangerous due to the open flame and smoke, they consumed a lot of fuel (wood) and was difficult to regulate the cooking process and heat.

The solution was found in ovens that resembled fireplaces with a chimney that closed off the fire to reduce the amount of smoke and intensity, and make it easier to manage. These were common during the 16th and early 17th century. They were found in homes of the wealthy that had a separate kitchen with a chimney, and more than one oven and fireplace.

By the middle of the 19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common element in kitchens of homes. This was partly due to the fact that the oven was an essential feature, as it was safer and more efficient to cook food in an oven than over an open flame or using a cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of ovens coincided with changes in cooking methods and recipes, leading to a greater emphasis on casseroles and meat.

It is important to note that in certain recipes, like those from Nigella, she will recommend placing the pot "on the hob", but this can be misleading as a hob is actually an actual British word for a stove top. The North American equivalent is a range or cooktop, so it could be confusing if you are unfamiliar with the British terminology.

Functions

The oven functions, also referred to as cooking modes, are preprogrammed options that control the oven's heating element and fan depending on your recipe. They are designed to help you cook food more efficiently and effectively while also preserving the flavor 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 mode which makes use of an integrated fan to circulate air around the oven, allowing more uniform and faster heating. There are a variety of ovens and hobs to choose from, and it's important to know the various options to figure out which ones are right for your needs.

A fan-assisted oven function is ideal for cooking a variety food items. It heats the oven more evenly than a traditional oven, and is ideal for grilling, baking, and roasting. It is particularly useful for cooking dishes such as pizza and pie that require a quick crisp, crisp finish. The Fan-Assisted setting is identified by a zigzag at top and an straight line at the bottom of a square and it can save you up to 40% in cooking time.

Some ovens have grilling features that combine heat from the top and bottom of the oven to give your food an amazing charcoal. It's perfect for kebabs made of meat or vegetables and can be identified by zigzags and straight lines like Fan-Assisted. This type of oven is typically found on the bottom shelf of the oven. Be sure to be aware of the temperature settings in your oven to ensure that you don't overcook.

Other oven functions include slow cooking baking, proofing bread and pastries and many other things. These are often pre-programmed to create a warm and controlled atmosphere to aid in the rising of dough and help your food to develop great flavor.

Some ovens have steam functions that are ideal for creating healthy and nutritious food. It adds a small amount of moisture to your food, which helps preserve the tenderness of the food and imparts a delicate, rich taste to vegetables, poultry baked goods as well as custards. It's just as simple as pouring the water into the reservoir inside your oven, then turning it on, with some models automatically changing the amount of steam depending on the selected temperature.

Types

There are many ovens and hobs on the market. These are available in a variety of styles, from traditional gas models to contemporary electric ones. Picking the one that best suits your requirements and preferences can make a huge difference to how easy it is to cook at home. Consider features like self-cleaning capabilities or smart functions.

Gas ovens are suitable for many kitchens and are a popular option. They usually come with burners with rings as well as a grate that pans rest on. They emit heat, making them easy to use. Gas hobs are also energy-efficient and provide precise temperature control. This can help lower your energy bills. However, they can take longer to heat up than electric and can be difficult to clean if left with residues.

Electric hobs come in a variety of different designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs can be a little more expensive, but they are energy efficient because the hob only heats up when you place the pot on it. They are also safe for children and heat up fairly quickly. They are also slow to cool down and don't warm up evenly.

Plate hobs, which are also a kitchen staple, feature a variety of cooking zones that are all electrically powered on flat surfaces. They are positioned under your kitchen cabinets. They have a sleek modern design that looks sleek and match the majority of kitchens. They can be difficult to keep clean, as they have multiple cooking zones that have uneven heating and can leave burn marks on the surface if not cleaned properly.

The most common model is the built-in single oven. These can be installed either beneath a hob, or in cabinets with built-in ovens. They are often big enough to accommodate a large dinner and are available in various sizes, so make sure to consider your family size when you choose an oven. They are also available with additional options, such as a grill or a steam function.

Installation

It could be worthwhile to hire an electrician to set up an oven that is new for you or replace an old one. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is correctly set up and that your new appliance is safe to use. An electrician who is certified will be able to adhere to local regulations and ensure that your installation is in accordance with all relevant safety regulations.

You'll require all the tools and materials that you require before beginning the installation of your new electric hob and oven. Wire nuts, a screwdriver, and electrical tape are among the tools you'll require. Examine the electrical supply at your home to make sure it can handle a new electric hob and oven.

To install an oven or hob that is new, you must first remove the old ones. Locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance and remove them carefully. After the appliance has been removed, the space where the new one is installed should be clean and free of obstructions. Then a junction box will need to be installed and connected to the electrical supply using conduit. It is essential to follow the instructions of the manufacturer as well as any local regulations.

Once the electrical connections are made, the oven or hob can be moved into place. The fitter will then utilize the clips that came with the hob to fix it in place and ensure that it's in line with the worktop. The fitter will test the hob and ensure that it's functioning properly.

If you're installing a gas hob and oven, it's a good idea to hire a professional for the job. Gas installation is not as easy as plugging in an electric oven. A CORGI registered engineer must connect the pipework. It's also a good idea to get an oven hood fitted in case you don't have one, as it will help to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.