Why Choosing the Right Hob Matters
Your hob is the heart of your kitchen. It's the appliance you interact with every single day, and the wrong choice can mean frustration for years. Whether you're renovating, replacing a tired old cooktop, or fitting out a brand-new kitchen, this guide walks you through every key consideration before you buy.
Step 1: Know Your Fuel Options
The first decision is the energy source. There are four main types of hob:
- Gas: Open flame, instant heat control, works with any cookware. Requires a gas supply.
- Induction: Magnetic heating, ultra-fast, highly energy-efficient. Requires compatible (magnetic-base) cookware.
- Ceramic (radiant electric): Smooth glass surface, heats via radiant elements beneath. Works with most cookware.
- Solid plate electric: Budget-friendly, but slow to heat and cool. Often found in older kitchens.
If you don't have a gas supply and don't want to install one, you're choosing between induction and ceramic. If you cook professionally or love precise flame control, gas may be worth the installation cost.
Step 2: Measure Your Space
Hobs come in standard widths — most commonly 60cm and 90cm. Before shopping, measure your existing cut-out or worktop space carefully. Also check the depth required, as this varies by brand and model. A 60cm hob typically has four burners/zones, while a 90cm model may offer five or six.
Step 3: Consider Your Cooking Style
Think honestly about how you cook:
- Do you use a wok frequently? Gas or a dedicated wok burner is ideal.
- Do you prefer precise, low simmering? Induction excels here.
- Do you cook for a large family? A 90cm hob with multiple zones gives you flexibility.
- Do you bake a lot but use the hob only occasionally? A simple ceramic may be perfectly adequate.
Step 4: Set a Realistic Budget
Hob prices vary enormously. As a rough guide:
| Type | Entry Level | Mid Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | £80–£150 | £150–£300 | £300+ |
| Gas | £100–£180 | £180–£400 | £400+ |
| Induction | £150–£250 | £250–£500 | £500+ |
Don't forget to factor in installation costs. Gas and induction hobs often require professional installation, which can add £100–£250 to your total outlay.
Step 5: Check Safety Features
Modern hobs come with a range of safety additions worth looking for:
- Flame failure device (FFD): Automatically cuts gas if the flame goes out — essential for gas hobs.
- Child lock: Prevents accidental activation of controls.
- Residual heat indicators: Ceramic and induction hobs should clearly display when a zone is still hot.
- Auto shut-off: Turns the hob off if left on too long without a pan detected (common on induction).
Step 6: Think About Cleaning and Maintenance
Induction and ceramic hobs have flat glass surfaces that wipe down easily. Gas hobs have grates, burner caps, and crevices that trap grease — they require more effort to keep clean but are easier to repair. If low-maintenance cleaning is a priority, a smooth-top hob wins.
Final Checklist Before You Buy
- Confirm your fuel supply (gas vs electric).
- Measure your cut-out and worktop depth.
- Check whether your cookware is induction-compatible if considering induction.
- Compare safety features, especially if you have children.
- Factor in total cost including installation.
- Read independent reviews for specific models you're considering.
Taking these steps before you buy will save you time, money, and the headache of an ill-fitting or unsuitable appliance.