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How to Choose the Right Oven and hob and oven for Your Kitchen
We offer a variety of sizes, styles and features to suit any kitchen.
Solid plate hobs are easy to use and durable. They feature metal plates with a sealed surface that heats your cookware. They are ideal for flat-based products and may be cost-effective to operate.
Origins
Ovens are utilized in kitchens around the world to bake and roast food items. Generally they are fueled by electricity or gas with bottle gas models that are available in certain markets however ovens can also make use of other fuels, such as wood or charcoal. In a lot of homes the oven is surrounded by a stove where food can be cooked. Hobs are essentially a stove that can be turned on and off. An oven is a closed enclosure that heats food in the middle.
The first ovens were large brick and mud constructions that contained fire to heat food. These ovens were used to bake bread, cook meat, and other dishes because they contained heat well and maintained a consistent temperature. They could also be easily shared among family members. However, these open pits and furnaces had three major drawbacks - they were dangerous because of the smoke and flames that could be seen, they consumed a lot of fuel (wood), and it was difficult to regulate the cooking process and heat.
The solution was to use ovens that looked like fireplaces. They had a chimney that secluded off the fire, thus reducing the intensity and amount of smoke. This made it easier to manage. They were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. They were found in wealthy homes with separate kitchens with a chimney, and more than one fireplace and oven.
In the late 19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in home kitchens. It was partly due to the fact that the oven was essential. It was more secure and efficient to cook over an open fire or in the cauldron. It is thought that the development of the oven was correlated with the evolution of cooking methods and recipes that led to an increased concentration on meat and casseroles.
It is important to note that in some recipes, such as those from Nigella she may suggest placing a pot "on the hob" but this can be misleading as a hob is actually a British word for a stove top. The North American equivalent is a range or cooktop, and it could be confusing if not familiar with the British terminology.
Functions
The oven functions, also referred to as cooking modes, are preprogrammed options that control the oven's heating element as well as fan depending on your recipe. They are designed to make cooking food more efficiently and effectively while also 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. There is also a fan-assisted option which makes use of an integrated fan to circulate air around the oven, which allows for a more even and quicker heating. There are many different types of oven and hob functions to pick from, and it's important to know the various features to find out which one is best suited to your needs.
A fan-powered oven is ideal for cooking a variety of foods. It is able to heat the oven more evenly than a conventional oven, and is perfect for grilling, baking and roasting. It's especially useful for dishes that need an immediate, crisp finish like pizzas or pies. The Fan-Assisted setting is marked by a zigzag at top and straight lines at the bottom of a square and can help you save up to 40% of cooking time.
Some ovens have a grilling function that combines the heat from the bottom of the oven uk with the top, giving your meals a delicious charcoal. It's ideal for kebabs of meat or vegetables and can be identified with the zigzag and straight lines similar to Fan-Assisted. This is typically utilized on the lower rack of the oven, so make careful to observe your oven's temperature settings to prevent overcooking.
There are other oven functions like proofing pastry and bread slow cooking, baking, and more. These are usually preprogrammed and create a controlled, warm environment that helps rise dough and create flavours.
There are ovens with steam functions, which are ideal for creating healthy, nutritious meals. It adds a delicate and rich flavour to baked goods, poultry, vegetables and custards. It's just as simple as pouring the water into the reservoir in your oven and turning it on, with some models automatically altering the amount of steam to depend on the temperature that is selected.
Types
There are many kinds of oven and hob on the market with a range of styles, from traditional gas models to modern electric models. It is crucial to select an oven and hob that suits your needs. It is worth considering features like self-cleaning and intelligent capabilities too.
Gas ovens are a popular option and are suitable for most kitchens. They are simple to use since they have rings around the burners as well as a grate where pans rest which emits heat. Gas hobs are also energy-efficient and offer precise temperature control. This could help you lower your energy bills. They can take longer to warm up than electric hobs and can be more difficult to clean, due to residue.
Electric hobs are available in a variety of 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 safe for children and heat up fairly quickly. They can also be slow to cool down and do not get hot enough evenly.
Plate hobs, also a kitchen staple, feature a variety of cooking zones that are all electric and on an even surface. They sit beneath the cabinets in your kitchen. They have a sleek, modern look that will complement all kitchens. They are difficult to clean as they contain multiple zones of uneven heating. If they are not properly cleaned they may leave burn marks.
The most popular model is the built-in single oven. These can be installed on top of a stove, or in a built-in cabinet. They are usually large enough to accommodate a large dinner and are available in various sizes, so make certain to consider your family's size when selecting an oven. They can also be found with additional options such as a grill or a steam function.
Installation
It could be worthwhile to hire an electrician to set up a new oven for you or to replace an old one. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is properly set up and that the new oven 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.
Before beginning the installation process of your new electric oven and hob you'll need all the required equipment and tools in your kitchen. Wire nuts as well as a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll need. It is also essential to examine the electrical supply in your home and ensure it can withstand the demands of a new electric oven and hob.
To install a new oven and hob (look at here), you must first take them out of the old ones. To do this, locate the screws or bolts that hold the old appliance and then remove them carefully. Once the appliance has been removed, the space where the new one is installed must be clear of obstructions. The junction box needs to be erected, as well as the conduit connected to the electrical supply. It is crucial to follow the instructions of the manufacturer as well as any local regulations.
Once the electrical connections are established and the oven or hob is connected, it can be moved into the desired position. The fitter will then use the clips that came with the hob to hold it to the wall and ensure that it is flush with the worktop. The fitter will then test the hob to make sure it is operating properly.
If you're installing a gas oven and hob it's best to hire a professional for the job. Gas installation isn't as simple as plugging in a new electric oven, and requires the services of a CORGI certified engineer to connect the pipework. It's also an excellent idea to get an oven hood fitted in the event that you don't have one as it will allow you to ventilate your kitchen and is required by Part F of the Building Regulations.