How to Choose the Right Oven and Hob for Your Kitchen

If you're looking for a new oven or hob we have a variety of sizes and styles, features and designs to fit your kitchen.

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

Origins

Ovens are commonly used in kitchens all over the world to roast and bake foods. They are typically powered by electricity or gas, with bottle gas models that are available in certain markets, although ovens may additionally use other fuels such as wood or charcoal. In a lot of homes, the oven is enclosed by a hob that food can be cooked. The difference between a stove and an oven is that a stove has burners that can be turned on and off while an oven comes with an enclosure in which food is heated in the middle.

The first ovens were massive brick and mud constructions that had a fire for heating food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat, and for cooking other foods since they were able to hold heat and maintained a consistent temperature. They could also be shared among family members. However, open pits and furnaces had three major disadvantages: they were dangerous due to the smoke and flames that could be seen, they consumed a lot of fuel (wood) and was difficult to control the heat and cooking process.

A solution was found with ovens that resembled fireplaces, with a chimney that shut off the fire to reduce the amount of smoke and intensity, and make it easier to control. They were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, and were commonly used in homes that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen area with a chimney, as well as having more than one oven and fireplace.

In the middle of the 19th century, European ovens hobs were a popular feature in kitchens. This was due to the fact that the oven was an essential feature, as it was much safer and more efficient to cook in an oven rather than on an open flame or with a cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of the oven coincided with changes in cooking methods and recipes, which led to a greater emphasis on casseroles and meat.

It is important to note that in some recipes, like those of Nigella she may suggest cooking the pot "on the hob" however this could be misleading as hob is actually an actual British term for a stove top. The North American equivalent is a cooktop or range, so it could be confusing if you're not familiar with British terminology.

Functions

Oven functions, also known as cooking modes, are pre-programmed options which control how the oven's heating elements as well as the fan function based on the recipe you're making. They are designed to make cooking food more efficiently and effectively, while preserving the flavor and texture.

The majority of ovens have a traditional mode that heats from the top and bottom to bake or roast food. They also offer a fan-assisted mode that makes use of a built-in fan to circulate air throughout the oven for more even and faster heating. There are many options available for oven and hob functions. It is essential to know the distinctions to decide which one is best for you.

The fan-powered feature of the oven is ideal to cook a range of food items. It heats up the oven more evenly than standard ovens and is ideal for baking, grilling and roasting. It's especially useful for meals that require quick, crisp and fast-drying, such as pizza or pies. The Fan-Assisted setting features an angled top and a line at the bottom. It can help save up to 40 percent of cooking time.

Certain ovens come with grilling options that combine heat from the top and bottom of the oven, giving your food the perfect charcoal. It's great for kebabs of meat or vegetables and can be identified with the zigzag and straight lines, like Fan-Assisted. This type of oven is typically found on the lower shelf of the oven. Be sure to be aware of the temperature settings of your oven to prevent overcooking.

There are additional oven functions like bread and pastry proofing slow cooking, proofing, and more. These ovens are usually programmed to create a warm and controlled environment that will facilitate the rising of dough and allow your food to develop great flavors.

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 maintains tenderness and adds an exquisite, rich flavor to poultry, vegetables, baked items and even custards. This feature is activated by placing water into the reservoir of your oven, and turning it on. Certain models can alter the amount of steam according to the temperature you select.

Types

There are many types of ovens and hobs available on the market that range from traditional gas models to modern electric models. Choosing one that meets your preferences and style can make a big difference to how easy it is to cook at home. It is worth considering features such as self-cleaning and smart capabilities too.

Gas ovens are a common choice and can be found in all kitchens. They usually come with burners with rings and a grate on which pans rest on, which releases heat, so they are easy to use. Gas hobs are also energy efficient and have precise temperature control. This could help you cut your utility bills. However, they may take longer to preheat than electric and can be difficult to clean if they are left with residues.

Electric hobs come in many different designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs are a bit more expensive but they are more energy efficient as the hob only gets hot when you put the pot on it. They are also cool to the touch, making them safer for children. They are quick to warm up. They can also be slow to cool down and do not warm up evenly.

Plate hobs are a classic of the kitchen, offering an array of electric cooking zones that are placed on flat surfaces that are placed under your kitchen units. They sport a sleek, modern design that can be a perfect match for all kitchens. They are difficult to clean as they have a variety of zones with uneven heating. If not cleaned properly they may leave burn marks.

Single ovens that are built-in are the most commonly used kind of oven, and can be placed either under a stove or above the eye level in an integrated unit. They are typically large enough to accommodate a large meal and can come in different sizes, so be certain to consider your family's size when choosing an oven. They can also be found with additional options such as a grill or a steam function.

Installation

It might be worthwhile hiring an electrician to install an oven that is new for you or to replace an old one. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly installed and your new cooker is safe to use. A qualified electrician will be able to adhere to local regulations and ensure that your installation is in compliance 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 as well as a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll need. Examine the electrical supply at home to make sure it is able to handle the new electric hob and oven.

To install an oven or hob that is new first, you need to remove the old ones. To accomplish this, locate the bolts or screws that hold the old appliance in place and remove them with care. After the old appliance is removed from the space, it should be cleaned and free of obstructions. The junction box should be erected, as well as the conduit connected to the electrical supply. This must be done according to the manufacturer's instructions and any relevant local regulations.

Once the electrical connections are established, the oven or hob is then lowered into the desired position. The fitter will use the clips that came along with the hob to fix it and ensure that it is flush with your work surface. The fitter will then test the hob to make sure it is working correctly.

If you're planning to install a gas hob and oven, it's best hobs uk to employ a professional for the task. Gas installation isn't as easy as plugging in an electric oven. A CORGI registered engineer must connect the pipework. Installing an oven hood is a good 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.