How to Choose the Right Oven and hob uk for Your Kitchen

If you're looking for a new oven or hob we've got a range of sizes and styles, features and designs to suit your kitchen.

Solid plate hobs are simple to use and are durable. They have metal plates with sealed surfaces that heat your cookware. These are good for flat-based products and can be economical to run.

Origins

Ovens are kitchen appliances used to bake and roast food in homes across the world. They are typically powered by electricity or gas, with bottle gas models that are available in certain markets however ovens can also make use of other fuels, like charcoal or wood. In many homes the oven is located by a stove which is where food can be cooked. The distinction between a hob and an oven is that a hob comes with burners that are able to be turned on and off and off, while an oven has an enclosure where food is heated in the center.

The first ovens were huge brick and mud structures which contained a fire to cook food. They were used to bake bread, cook meat and other dishes as they were relatively good at containing the heat to maintain an even temperature, and could easily be shared among family members. However, these open pits and furnaces had three major drawbacks - they were dangerous due to the open flame and smoke as well as the consumption of fuel (wood) and was difficult to control the heat and cooking process.

A solution was found using ovens that resembled fireplaces with a chimney that shut off the fire to decrease the intensity and amount of smoke and make it easier to manage. These were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, and were typically found in household that were wealthy enough to have a separate kitchen with a chimney, as well as having more than one fireplace and oven.

In the late 19th century, European ovens had evolved to become a common feature in home kitchens. This was largely due to the fact that the oven was an essential requirement. It was more secure and efficient for people to cook on an open flame or in a cauldron. It is also believed that the invention and use of the oven coincided with changes in cooking styles and recipes, which led to a greater emphasis on meat and casseroles.

In certain recipes, like those by Nigella she might suggest leaving a pan "on the hob". However, this can be misleading, because a hob in British English refers to an oven. The North American equivalent is a range or cooktop, so it could be confusing if not familiar with the British terminology.

Functions

The oven functions, also referred to as cooking modes, are preprogrammed settings that control the oven's heating element and fan according to your recipe. They are designed to make cooking food easier and more efficient, while preserving flavour and texture.

Ovens are equipped with a traditional design that heats food from the top to the bottom. They also come with a fan-assisted option which uses a built-in fan to circulate air around the oven for more even and faster heating. There are a variety of options for oven and hob functions. It is essential to know the differences to decide the best one for you.k at home. Think about features like self-cleaning or smart capabilities.

Gas ovens are a great fit in many kitchens and are a common option. They are simple to use because they have rings around the burners and a grate where pans rest which emits heat. Gas hobs are also energy efficient and offer precise temperature control. This could help you reduce your utility bill. However, they can take longer to heat up than electric hobs and are difficult to clean if left with residues.

Electric hobs are available in a range of designs including ceramic and induction. Induction hobs can be a little more expensive, but they are more energy efficient as the hob only is heated when you put the pot on it. They are also safe for children and heat up fairly quickly. They are also slow to cool down and do not warm up evenly.

Plate hobs, which are also an essential kitchen appliance, have a variety of cooking zones that are all electric and on flat surfaces. They sit on top of your kitchen cabinets. They sport a sleek, modern look that will complement the majority of kitchens. They are difficult to clean since they have multiple zones of uneven heating. If they are not properly cleaned they may leave burn marks.

Single ovens that are built-in are the most common kind of oven, and can be placed either under a stove or above the eye level in a built-in unit. When selecting an oven, think about the size of your family. They can be large enough to accommodate a large meal and are available in various sizes. You can also find them with extra features such as a steam or grill function.

Installation

If you're planning to install a new oven or replacing an existing one it's worth hiring an electrician to manage the installation for you. This will ensure that the electrical circuit is correctly installed and the new oven is safe to use. A qualified electrician will be able to adhere to local regulations and ensure that the installation is in compliance with all relevant safety codes.

You'll need all the tools and equipment you need before you begin the installation of your new electric hob and oven. Wire nuts, a screwdriver and electrical tape are among the tools you'll need. Make sure you check the electrical supply in your home to make sure it is able to handle an electric hob or oven.

The first step of installing a new cooktop and oven is to take out any old appliances. Locate the bolts or screws holding the old appliance, and then remove them carefully. After the appliance has been removed, the area in which the new one will be 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 directions of the manufacturer and any local regulations.

After electrical connections have been made and the oven or hob is connected, it can then be lowered in place. The fitter will use the clips that came along with the hob in order to fix it and ensure that it's level with the worktop. Finally, the fitter will test the hob and ensure that it's operating correctly.

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