The hob has become the norm for a comfortable and functional kitchen. It is quite simply built into the countertop, does not take up much space and has characteristics that will satisfy the most demanding housewife. But in order for the panel to live up to expectations and served without complaints, it is necessary to make the right choice. Important characteristics are: operating principle, base material, panel dimensions and burner dimensions. Advantages of modern stoves are enough, but it is worth considering their disadvantages.
Manufacturer's choice
Which hob is better is a rhetorical question. There are enough decent models in the lines of any well-known manufacturer. However, this complicates the selection problem. However, as practice shows, within one price category, all plates have similar characteristics, but quality can suffer. Therefore, it is recommended to pay attention to products of only trusted manufacturers and make a purchase in specialized stores.
Worthy and having many positive reviews, hobs and ovens are produced by the following companies, which are probably familiar to most buyers:
- Hansa;
- Bosch;
- Hotpoint-Ariston;
- Gorenje;
- Electrolux;
- Piramida.
However, before choosing the brand of the panel, it is worthwhile to understand the differences in the principle of operation and consider the main selection criteria.
The principle of arranging the panel
The hob cuts directly into the countertop and becomes its logical continuation. As a result, the product seems compact and does not take up much space. However, it is worth considering that under the panel itself is the main building, where all the structural elements are located.
In the free access for the hostess are rotary switches or touch buttons. You can also find advanced models on sale, where according to a given program, the stove itself regulates the entire cooking process.
Features of work
Each panel differs in the principle of work. The following options are distinguished:
- Gas. They work from a stationary gas pipeline, but can, if there are appropriate nozzles, be connected to the cylinder.
- Electric. The work is based on a high resistance electric heating element. Burners heat up after applying voltage to them and transfer their heat to the dishes.
- Induction. Technologically new working principle based on magnetic radiation. For the manufacture of the panel, glass is used, under which there is a magnetic coil, which, reacting with the iron bottom of the dishes, heats it, while remaining cold.
Which panel to choose depends on many factors. Below we consider the advantages and disadvantages of each of them.
Gas hobs
A gas panel almost always costs more than an electric panel. However, if the house has a central gas supply, then such a purchase will be the best solution. The cost of gas is much lower than electricity, under the same conditions for using the stove.
Gas hob reviews has almost everything positive. It is noted that a similar model:
- Heats contents in dishes faster.
- Allows you to use any dishes.
- It makes it possible to smoothly adjust the power of the burner.
- It does not need preheating.
- Significantly cheaper to operate.
However, there are opinions that such panels are fire hazardous. But if you choose a model that provides gas control, then there will be no such problem. Some do not like the fact that gas leaves soot on the dishes. To prevent this from happening, you should adjust the gas supply level under the bottom of the dishes. Also, modern standards in the construction of houses prohibit the use of gas if the building is above 10 floors. Therefore, the hostesses will have to choose another option.
Electric hob
If the house does not have a stationary gas pipeline, then an electric hob is required. Modern options are no longer similar to their predecessors - stoves with open heating elements or large cast-iron pancakes. Any models are in perfect harmony with any kitchen design, for which they are loved by many housewives.
The burners in this case are electric, but the principle of their heating may differ. The surface material is most often glass ceramic or tempered glass.
An electric hob, according to user reviews, has the following advantages:
- Safe compared to the gas version.
- Easy to operate and maintain.
- It has an attractive appearance.
- It makes it possible to lay down many evaporation functions, up to controlling the cooking process and cooking strictly according to the recipe.
- Built-in protection against electric shock.
- Possibility of use without hood.
Of course, electric panels are not without drawbacks. The main one is significant energy consumption. In addition, a separate three-phase line is required for installation. In order for the stove to function normally, it must always be kept clean. At the same time, not all dishes can fit. It is advisable to use utensils with a flat bottom, otherwise the cooking process may be delayed.
Combined Options
A suitable alternative for houses where gas supply interruptions often occur or there are problems with electricity, and you have to use a gas bottle. Such models can work from different sources, because they are equipped with gas burners and electric heating elements.
Such a hob has a number of advantages that users distinguish:
- The ability to cook on an electric burner in case of gas interruptions and vice versa.
- Economical if you use gas.
- With the choice of dishes there are no problems.
- Often equipped with additional heating elements, making it possible to cook, for example, barbecue. A grill is provided for this.
However, before deciding to purchase such an option, you should consider the disadvantages. Such panels are more expensive than standard. They require more stringent installation rules and at the same time combine the disadvantages of a gas sample and an electric one.
Choose a panel shape
A classic of the genre is the rectangular shape of the hob. This model is easiest to install on the countertop because a standard cutout is required. Basically, all samples are 60 cm long. But their width varies significantly and can range from 25 to 90 cm. The difference is in the arrangement and number of burners.
The integrated hob may also have a different shape. The most common are:
- "Honeycombs."
- Round.
- Triangular.
Such products are suitable for owners of large spaces in the kitchen, when there is no need to fight for every centimeter. To choose the optimal size of the hob, it is recommended to draw up a kitchen plan, decide on the placement of household appliances and perform all measurements.
Recommendations for calculating the optimal panel size
When installing the panel and distributing all the components of the kitchen set, the following conditions must be met:
- To make the hob convenient for use, it is necessary to leave at least 30 cm gap between it and the side wall. It will be convenient to put pans here.
- At least 60 cm should be left between the sink and stove. This is enough to freely equip everything you need and not get burns. However, a gap of more than a meter is also not worth doing. This will lead to unnecessary movements and fatigue of the hostess.
- When installing the sink, they also deviate from the wall at least 40 cm, to avoid splashing.
When calculating the maximum allowable width of the hob, these dimensions and the dimensions of the sink are taken into account. They are subtracted from the total length of the wall.
Panel Dimensions
The built-in hob differs in the shape and number of burners. Manufacturers offer the following options:
- Single burner stoves or Domino panels where two burners are present. Suitable for use in small kitchens, single people or in the conditions of the cottage. The width of such options does not exceed 30 cm.
- Three burner models. Non-standard option, increasingly gaining popularity. It makes it possible to cook many dishes at once, while the extra burners do not stand idle. Their width ranges from 45 to 73 cm.
- Four burners. They are considered classics and are often purchased by families where at least 3-4 people live. Most often they have one powerful burner, two standard and the other for use for the Turks. They have standard dimensions - 60 cm. However, electrical samples can be much wider - up to 100 cm. Such models are recommended to be installed in large kitchens, where they often cook a lot.
- Five six-burner models. Non-standard option. The panels have a width of at least 75 cm and are only suitable for spacious rooms. In this case, usually the 5th and 6th burners are large and high power. Used to quickly heat food. Often an additional burner has a non-standard shape, for example, an oval. This approach allows you to set the dishes with a non-standard bottom, such as goose bowls.
Overview of models from the best manufacturers
Having decided on the type of hob and its dimensions, you should consider other parameters. All manufacturers offer various options, which is better, help to find out user reviews and technical nuances.
- Surface material. Enamel is a classic option, has many colors and a budget price. However, he is afraid of sharp blows. Stainless steel is resistant to wear, but very easily soiled. Fingerprints are even visible. Tempered glass is shockproof, easy to maintain, but models are expensive.
- Automatic electric ignition. A necessary function that eliminates the need to use matches.
- Timer. It helps not to forget to turn off the stove in time.
Gas hob Hotpoint-Ariston 7HPC
The best choice for homes with a gas pipeline would be a gas panel. It is economical and allows you to quickly cook food. Hotpoint-Ariston 7HPC (hob) has extremely positive reviews. Equipped with four burners of different capacities. One of them has a “triple crown” and a double flame divider. Thanks to this, you can cook the dish as quickly as possible.
The surface of the panel is made of brushed stainless steel. Rotary switches are designed for two operating modes and are located in front. Among the advantages, users distinguish:
- The presence of automatic ignition.
- Easy care.
- Simple operation.
- Affordable price.
However, there are also negative reviews. Not all housewives fit this arrangement of burners. Also, the switches are designed for only two power modes, which is sometimes inconvenient.
Electric variant of Hansa BHEI 60130010
Hansa hob has a classic appearance and a metal surface. Equipped with cast-iron pancakes of different diameters and power. Hostess reviews highlight the presence of a residual heating sensor. It allows you to not burn yourself accidentally unheated burner. The model also maintains heat for a long time without a power source and has protection against overheating.
The reviews are mostly positive. Consumers are attracted by simple operation, easy maintenance and affordable price. The assembly is solid, pancakes are non-standard. However, there is a minus for this model. The manufacturer does not complete the cord with a plug. Also, many note the inertia of the panel when heated.
Electric hob Gorenie
The model has a stylish design, thoughtful functionality and practicality. The surface is made of smooth and durable glass ceramics. The form in the form of "Dominoes" allows you to set the surface anywhere and complete with other household appliances. It can be used in a small kitchen. Also, the stove will become one of the links in the necessary simulated cooking surface.
From the positive reviews we can distinguish:
- Convenient touch control.
- One burner is adjustable along the heating circuit, so you can use dishes of different diameters.
- To save the set mode, they are blocked.
- Parents are attracted by child protection and a residual temperature sensor from accidental burns.
Among the shortcomings, users identified only the lack of a timer. For some, the price seems high, because, in fact, the consumer receives only two burners.
Built-in sample Electrolux EHF 6232 IOK
The Electrolux hob is a practical and reliable standard size model (60 cm wide). Equipped with 4 electric burners of different capacities.
Mistresses emit black glass ceramics that look elegant and stand out on any countertop. It is convenient to care for, but fingerprints are always noticeable.
The reviews mention the touch mode and as many as 9 burner heating modes. The panel is safe to use. For this, an emergency shutdown function and a residual heat sensor are provided.
The surface has three burners of different diameters. Mistresses especially like the presence of a three-circuit heating zone on the third burner. You can rationally use dishes from 27 cm in diameter to 14.5 cm.
The panel is easy to clean. It is enough to wipe it regularly with a cloth and to prevent ingress of burnt food debris. To remove heavy dirt, you can use a glass ceramic scraper.
Among the minuses is the lack of a timer.
Bosch Induction Panel PIB673F17E
Bosch induction hob is popular with housewives. She has 4 rings of an oval shape, which is quite unusual at first glance. But, as practice shows, this approach is ideal for stewing foods, stewing and instant cooking.
The hob reviews collected mainly recommendatory. There is an option for quick boiling. There is a timer for each of the 4 burners. Mistresses note that in case of accidental spills of liquid, the panel automatically turns off. Also convenient is the function of blocking from unauthorized pressing, which is important if there are children in the house.
Service center specialists note flawless assembly and smooth operation. Also stands out electronic filling, which does its job flawlessly. Induction hob does not require complicated maintenance. As practice shows, it is enough to wipe it regularly with a cloth and occasionally use special detergents.
Induction model Gorenje IT 310 KR
Induction hob Gorenie is compact and practical. Despite the fact that the panel has two burners, it is quite popular. This is ensured by an interesting design, the presence of a timer, convenient location of the touch control panel and low noise.
In its price category, the hob deserves the first lines. Housewives are attracted by the presence of the function of rapid heating and boiling. There is protection against accidental clicking. The hob is small, but with great functionality.
Dependent Models
There are models where the stove with a hob are compact and cannot function separately. In this case, the control panel surface and the stove is located in one place. The advantage of such sets in the low price and full compliance with each other in terms of characteristics and appearance.
Which hob is better, can not be said unequivocally. Independents do not require selection, are installed anywhere and have a different control panel. The dependent version looks pretty neat even in a small kitchen. You can use the hotplates and oven at any time. At the same time, the panel itself does not heat up when using the stove.
Model with dependent installation Bosch NKN651G17
Affordable option, just mounted on a countertop. Housewives are attracted by the minimalistic design. The glass-ceramic surface does not have anything superfluous. However, consumers complain that there are problems due to the ribbing of the panel.
For the panel to work, it needs a pair - the Bosch HEA23B260 oven. As a result, the consumer receives a four-burner stove with touch switches, an indicator of remaining heat, child protection and an oven that is fully compatible with the panel.
Finally
The choice of the hob is based on the possibility of connecting to the gas pipeline, cooking preferences, kitchen space and the number of people in the family. If you plan to cook a lot and often, then the Domino model will be insufficient. At the same time, if the hostess rarely spends time cooking, then there is no need to purchase five-burner options.
Gas panels are optimal in homes with a main pipeline. The electrical option will be appropriate in homes lacking this advantage. If you liked the induction panel, then you need to review all the dishes in the house and buy the appropriate one.