We have a range of styles, sizes and features that will fit in with any kitchen.
Solid plate hobs are simple to use and are durable. They have metal plates with a sealed surface that heats your cookware. They are suitable for flat-based products and can be cost-effective to operate.
Origins
Ovens are kitchen appliances that are used to roast and bake food in homes across the world. Generally they are fueled by electricity or gas, with gas bottles available in some markets, although ovens may additionally use other fuels such as wood or charcoal. In many homes, the oven is surrounded by a stove that food items can be cooked. A hob is a burner that can be turned on or off. An oven is a closed space which heats food in the middle.
The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures which contained a fire to cook food. These ovens were used for baking bread, cooking meat, and for cooking other foods because they contained heat well and maintained a consistent temperature. They could also be easily shared by family members. Open pits and ovens had three major disadvantages They were dangerous due to the smoke and flames that could be seen from them as well as the use of a lot of fuel (wood), they were difficult to control heat and the cooking process.
The solution was found in ovens that resembled fireplaces with a chimney that closed off the fire to decrease its intensity and smoke and make it easier to control. These were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries and were commonly used in homes that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen with a chimney, as well as having more than one oven and fireplace.
By the mid-19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in home kitchens. This was partly because the oven became essential, since it was much safer and more efficient to cook with an oven than over an open flame or with a cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of ovens coincided with changes in cooking styles and recipes, leading to a greater focus on meat and casseroles.
It is important to note that in certain recipes such as those from Nigella she suggests placing the pot "on the hob" but this can be misleading because a hob is actually a British word for a stove top. If you're not familiar with British terminology it is possible that the North American equivalent would be the term cooktop or range.
Functions
The oven's functions, or cooking modes, are pre-programmed options that control how the oven's heating elements and fan operate depending on your recipe. They are designed to allow you to cook food more efficiently and effectively, while preserving flavour and texture.
Ovens typically have a conventional mode that heats from the top and bottom to bake or roast food. There is also a fan-assisted option that uses an integrated fan to circulate the air around the oven, allowing for a more even and quicker heating. There are many different types of ovens and hobs to pick from, and it's essential to know the various features to determine which ones are right for your requirements.
A fan-powered oven is perfect for cooking a variety of food items. It warms up the oven more evenly than standard ovens and is ideal for grilling, baking and roasting. It is especially useful for dishes like pizza and pie that require a fast crisp, crisp finish. The setting for Fan-Assisted is marked with a zigzag at the top and straight lines at the bottom of the square, and it can cut down up to 40% in cooking time.
Some ovens have a grilling function that combines the heat from the bottom of the oven with that from the top to give your meals an amazing char. It's ideal for kebabs of meat or vegetables, and can be marked with the zigzag and straight lines similar to Fan-Assisted. This mode is usually used on the lower rack of the oven, so be certain to be aware of your oven's temperature settings to prevent overcooking.
There are also other oven functions that include proofing pastry and bread slow cooking, baking and much more. These ovens are usually programmed to create a warm, controlled atmosphere to aid in the rise of dough and help your food develop amazing flavor.
There are also some ovens that come with Steam functions that are ideal for making healthy, nutritious foods. It imparts a delicate, rich flavor to baked items such as poultry, vegetables, and custards. This function can be activated by placing water in the reservoir of your oven, and turning it on. Some models will even alter the amount of steam automatically in accordance with the temperature set.
Types
There are many types of ovens and hobs available that are available, ranging from traditional gas models to modern electric models. It is crucial to select an oven and hob that is suitable for your needs. Consider features like self-cleaning capabilities or smart functions.
Gas ovens are a very popular choice and can be found in the majority of kitchens. They usually come with burners with rings as well as an grate that the pans sit on. They emit heat, so they are simple to use. Gas hobs can also be energy efficient and have precise temperature control, meaning they can reduce your energy costs. However, they may take longer to heat up than electric ones and are difficult to clean if they are covered in a layer of residue.
Electric hobs come in a range of designs including induction and ceramic. Induction hobs can be 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 cool to the touch, which makes them safer for children, and are relatively quick to warm up. However, they don't always heat the pan uniformly and can take a long time to cool down.
Plate hobs, also an essential kitchen appliance, have a variety of cooking zones that are all electric on an even surface. They are placed on top of your kitchen cabinets. They offer a stylish modern design that look elegant and fit in with the majority of kitchens. They can be difficult to clean since they have multiple cooking zones that have uneven heating and can leave burn marks on the surface if not cleaned properly.
Built-in single ovens are the most common type of oven, and these can be fitted under a hob or at eye level in an integrated unit. When selecting an oven, take into consideration the size of your family. They are usually large enough to accommodate a huge meal and come in different sizes. There are also ovens with additional features, such as a steam or grill function.
Installation
It could be worthwhile to hire an electrician to install the new oven for you or to replace an old one. This will ensure the electrical circuit is correctly installed and the new oven is safe to use. A licensed electrician will be able to adhere to local regulations and ensure that the installation is in line with all applicable safety regulations.
Before you begin the process of installing your new electric oven or hob you'll need to have all the required supplies and tools available. Wire nuts, a screwdriver, and electrical tape are among the tools you'll require. It's also important to check the electrical supply in your home and make sure it can withstand the demands of a new electric oven and hob.
In order to install a new oven and hob first, you need to take them out of the old ones. Find the bolts or screws holding the old appliance, and then remove them carefully. After the appliance has been removed, the area where the new one is installed should be clean and free of obstructions. The junction box should be mounted, and the conduit connected to the electrical supply. This must be done in accordance with manufacturer's instructions as well as any relevant local regulations.
Once the electrical connections are established after which the oven or hob can then be lowered in the desired position. The fitter will utilize the clips that came along with the hob to secure it and ensure it's level with your worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to make sure it is functioning properly.
If you're installing a gas hob and oven, it's a good idea to hire a professional for the task. Gas installation isn't as simple as plugging in a new electric oven and requires the assistance of a CORGI registered engineer to connect the pipework. Installing an oven hood is an option in the event that you don't already have one. This will allow air to circulate in your kitchen, and is required by the Part F of the Building Regulations.
