We recently discussed how to choose an extractor hood. To make use of the latter, however, we will inevitably need a hob! To avoid headaches in this area, it is time for a brief on the different hobs available on the market.

Whereas most of us are familiar with the electric and gas hobs, there exist some novelties. For example, a few years ago so-called vitroceramic hob arrived on the market, and more recently, we saw the arrival of the induction hob.

THE GAS HOB

This is one of the simplest types of hobs. A single button is used to turn on the plate’s flame, after which the heat can be adjusted by turning the button left and right to increase or decrease the intensity of the flame. This type of hob is particularly well adapted to traditional cooking. However, it is increasingly being criticized for the fact that it uses gas as a power source.

THE ELECTRICAL HOB

On top of making a cheap purchase, this type of hob is very easy to use, with a single button serving to turn on, turn off, and change the temperature of the plates. In addition, installing the electric hob is a quick and simple procedure. The downside? A relatively poor responsiveness as the temperature is modified. 

THE VITROCERAMIC HOB

This type of hob is named after the vitroceramic glass it is composed of, which is known to be very resistant to high temperatures as well as external chocs. These plates supply power through resistors that, when heated, create a circular cooking area. This type of hob is known for its rapid heating and simple maintenance. A negative aspect, however, is the amount of energy it uses, which consequently makes it costlier.

THE INDUCTION HOB

The induction hob is also made from vitroceramic glass, which gives it the same resistance as the vitroceramic hob. The difference between the two is that the former does not automatically heat the surface, which makes it “burn-proof.” It is only in contact with, for example, a pan or saucepan that a magnetic field arises and creates heat. This hob is known for having a strong responsiveness to temperature change, which makes it very convenient for cooking. The downside, however, is that not all types of pans function with an induction hob: to create the magnetic field, the pans need to be compatible with the hob. An easy trick for testing compatibility is to place a magnet under the pan. If it sticks the pan is compatible, but if it does not, well, then you know you will need to renew your kitchen equipment!

THE MIXED HOB

Have you still not made up your mind about which hob is the right one for you? Well, we are happy to let you know that there also exist mixed hobs. These are the possible combinations:

• Gas and electric
• Gas and induction
• Gas and vitroceramic
• Induction and vitroceramic

For all kinds of hobs, there are of course also different sizes to choose from depending on how large your kitchen area is. You can find hobs in sizes from 60 to 100 cm, as well as compact “dominoes” for the very smallest spaces.

With all this choice available (which, hopefully, no longer gives you a headache) we are certain that you will find a solution that makes you happy!