How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen

We have a wide range of styles, sizes and features to suit any kitchen.

The majority of them are simple to use and hard-wearing solid plate hobs are sealed metal plates that cook your cookware. They're good for flat-based items and are economical to run.

Origins

Ovens are utilized in kitchens around the world to roast and bake foods. They are typically 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 usually surrounded with a hob where food can be cooked. The difference between a hob and an oven is that a stove has burners that can be turned off and on and off, while an oven has an enclosure where food is heated in the center.

The first ovens were massive brick and mud structures that had fire in order to heat food. These ovens were used for baking bread, cooking meat, and for cooking other foods since they were able to hold heat and maintained a constant temperature. They could also be easily shared among family members. However, these open pits and furnaces came with three major disadvantages: they were dangerous due to the open flame and smoke, they consumed a lot of fuel (wood), and it was difficult to regulate the heat and cooking process.

A solution was found using ovens that resembled fireplaces with a chimney that closed off the fire to decrease the intensity and amount of smoke and make it easier to control. These were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, and were often found in households 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 were a common fixture in kitchens. This was partly because the oven became essential, since it was much more secure and efficient to cook with an oven than over an open flame or with a cauldron. However, it is believed that the invention of the oven coincided with changes in cooking methods and recipes, which resulted in an increased concentration on meat and casseroles.

In certain recipes, like those by Nigella she might suggest placing the pan "on the hob". However it could be confusing, because a hob in British English is an oven. The North American equivalent is a range or cooktop, so it can be confusing if you're unfamiliar with the British terminology.

Functions

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

Ovens come with a traditional mode that cooks food from the top to the bottom. They also have a fan-assisted option that uses a built-in fan to circulate air throughout the oven for better even and faster heating. There are many options availan electric models. Choosing one that meets your needs and style can make a huge difference to how it is easy to cook at home. It is worth considering features such as self-cleaning and smart capabilities too.

Gas ovens are suitable for many kitchens and are a very popular choice. They are easy to use since they have rings around the burners as well as the grate that pans sit on which emits heat. Gas hobs are also energy efficient and offer precise temperature control. This can help reduce your utility bill. They may take longer to heat up than electric hobs and may be more difficult to clean up with dirt.

Electric hobs come in a range of designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs oven are a bit more expensive but they are more energy efficient as the hob only heats up when you place an item on it. They are also safe for Hob and Oven children and can heat up fairly quickly. However, they may not always heat evenly and can be slow to cool down.

Plate hobs, which are also a kitchen staple, feature an array of cooking zones that are all electric on flat surfaces. They are positioned under the cabinets in your kitchen. They are sleek and have a modern design that can be a perfect match for the majority of kitchens. They can be difficult to keep clean, as they contain multiple cooking zones, which can cause uneven heating, and may leave burn marks on the surface if not cleaned in a timely manner.

Single ovens with built-in ovens are the most commonly used type of oven, and these can be fitted either underneath a hob or at eye level in an integrated unit. They are typically large enough to hold a large meal and come in a variety of sizes, so make sure to consider your family size when you choose an oven. They are also available with additional options such as an oven with a grill or a 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 correctly installed and the new cooker is safe for use. A licensed electrician can adhere to local regulations to ensure your installation is compliant with all safety codes.

You'll require all the tools and equipment that you require before beginning the installation process 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.

The first step in the process of installing a new hob and oven is to get rid of any old appliances. Find the screws or bolts holding the old appliance, and then remove them with care. After the old appliance has been removed from the area, it should be cleared of any obstructions. The junction box must be installed, with the conduit connected to the electrical supply. It is important to follow the instructions of the manufacturer as well as any local regulations.

Once the electrical connections are made then the oven and the hob can be moved into position. The fitter will use the clips that came with the hob in order to secure it and ensure it is flush with your work surface. The fitter will then test the hob to make sure it is operating properly.

If you're planning to install a gas hob and oven, it's best oven to engage a professional to do the job. Gas installation isn't quite as easy as plugging in a brand new electric oven and requires the assistance of a CORGI certified engineer to connect the pipework. Installing cooker hoods is an option to consider for those who don't have one. This will allow air to circulate in your kitchen, and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.