For many, getting their kitchen furnished is a magical experience, finally being able to check off their list of leisurely preparing meals for their loved ones with a slew of appliances in tow helping them out.
Right at the heart of cooking is the stove (or hob) and we share all you need to know about getting the right hob in for your kitchen.
FITTINGS AND MEASUREMENTS
Before anything else, it is always important to know the fittings and measurements you are looking at. This helps you in your shopping process by sieving through the variety of models available down to models that is applicable to your sizing requirements.
Measurements are especially important if you are just doing a replacement of your stove with no adjustments made to your counter space. In such scenarios, you will require your stove’s cut-out size to determine what new hobs you can choose.
NUMBER AND CONFIGURATION OF BURNERS
Knowing the number of burners you want also helps you in your shopping process. It can range from 2 to 4, or even more than 4 (though most brands offer up to 3 in the current market). Consider your cooking habits when making this decision, like whether you cook frequently, if you need to prepare several dishes simultaneously or if you have space to accommodate a hob with more burners.
Burner configuration is also something to look out for – whether you prefer the burners evenly spread out or with a space in the middle.
TYPES OF HOBS
But what types of hobs can you choose from? In Singapore, we have these three most common types available with their own characteristics that would fit the lifestyle you’re looking for.
1. GAS HOBS
Hilde HB-22883GL (Available in TG or LPG)
What are they:
These hobs run on gas – even government gas supplied by PUB or your cylinder gas tanks (LPG). Make sure you know what type of gas you will be using so you can make the right request when shopping.
Who they are good for:
They are perfect for those who cook often as their burners usually come in different sizes to accommodate the varied sizes of pots and pans. Furthermore, they are also good aids in cooking as heat control is simpler with gas hobs. As you are able to see the flames, you will be better able to gauge the heat level and get through your cooking with ease.
2. INDUCTION HOBS
What are they:
Induction hobs run on electricity and use electromagnetism to turn cooking pans into cookers. Heat settings are usually powered on levels, and usually come equipped with timers and a child-lock. With induction hobs, the type of pots and pans you use must have a flat base and made of magnetic materials, otherwise it will not be able to heat up.
Who they are good for:
These hobs are great for families with young children. While surfaces may be hot to touch after cooking, there are no exposed flames which might pose as hazards to children. They are also a good add to modern looking or open-concept kitchens with their sleek appearance and flat surface.
3. CERAMIC HOBS
What are they:
Ceramic (or vitroceramic) hobs also run on electricity but generates heat through a heating element present underneath the glass surface of the hob. They are compatible with any cookware as long as they have a flat base.
Within Singapore’s market, ceramic hobs are usually found paired with induction hobs as a hybrid model offering one induction zone and one vitroceramic zone.
Who they are good for:
Ceramic hobs are great for those looking for a sleek and smooth design that is easy to clean with the flexibility to use any cookware.
Unleash your cooking potential with your next stove! Feel free to pop down to our showrooms for a look at our varied hobs.
