Top 30 Gas Hob Brands in 2024

Gas Hobs Buying Guide If you are looking to upgrade your kitchen and want to opt for a more traditional and professional way of cooking, you might want to install a gas hob. Gas hobs are widely used in professional kitchens as they offer a instant, precise and controllable heat source. They are also often a favourite for many home cooks as they provide the same control and confidence in the kitchen. In this buying guide we will take a closer look at gas hobs and the different features available on the market today. Size and Number of Burners One of the key decisions to make when buying a gas hob is the size and number of burners. Depending on your cooking style and the number of people you cook for, you could opt for a two, three, four or even five burner hob. A two-burner hob could fit nicely in a small kitchen or serve as an additional hob to a larger one. A three to four burner model is the most common and would suit a household of four or five well. If you entertain often or have a larger family, a five burner model provides the space and output you need for creating more complex, multi-course meals. When choosing the size and number of burners, make sure you consider the size of your cookware as it needs to fit comfortably on the hob. It’s also important to measure the available space where the hob will go to ensure a good fit. Heat Output The heat output of a gas hob is measured in kilowatts (kW). The higher the output, the quicker the hob can heat up and maintain the heat level. A range of heat outputs is available on the market with the most common being between 1.5kW and 3kW. A higher output of 4kW or more is ideal for larger burners or for wok cooking where a lot of heat is necessary. When choosing the heat output of your gas hob, consider the type of cooking you do most often. If you are a keen stir-fry chef, for example, you might want to opt for a hob with a high output for a searing hot wok. If you are more likely to be simmering or boiling, a low to medium output would be sufficient. Burner Configuration Another factor to consider is the burner configuration. The layout of the burners can have a big impact on how you use the hob and how versatile it can be. The most common configuration is four burners in a square shape, often with the larger burners at the back and the smaller ones at the front. This layout provides flexibility for different sized pans and is convenient for accessing the controls. Other configurations are available, such as the diamond shape, which places the larger burner in the centre and smaller ones around the edges. This layout is ideal for larger pans, and it offers more space for cooking at the same time. The wok burner configuration, with a larger, central burner providing a focused and intense heat source, offers even more space and control over the heat needed for wok cooking. Flame Failure Device A Flame Failure Device (FFD) is a safety feature which automatically cuts off the gas supply to the burners if the flame is accidentally extinguished. This is a requirement in the UK for new gas hobs, meaning that all models sold in the country will have a FFD installed. If you are looking to buy a second hand hob or a model from another country, it’s important to check if it has a FFD or if one can be installed. If you are cooking with gas, always make sure the burners are lit and keep a close eye on them, especially if you are cooking with oils or other flammable ingredients. An FFD is a helpful safeguard for any kitchen, providing peace of mind and helping to prevent accidents. Ignition Type When turning on the gas to ignite the burners, you have three options to choose from: manual, spark or automatic ignition. The most common type is manual, where you need to use a lighter or matchstick to light the gas. This can be difficult for some people, especially if you have mobility issues or problems with dexterity. Spark ignition is where a small mechanism produces a spark to ignite the gas. It’s a popular choice for most modern gas hobs as it provides a quick and easy flame without having to light it manually. Automatic ignition is similar to spark ignition but is activated by a sensor, either a push-button or a sensor that recognises when you turn the knob. This gives an equal amount of gas every time you ignite the burner, which can be convenient for precise cooking. If you have difficulty with manual ignition, an automatic or spark ignition is a good choice. It’s worth noting that automatic ignition is often available only on more expensive models. Control Knobs and Placement The control knobs on a gas hob are essential to control the heat output and temperature of the burners. They are usually made of metal or heat-resistant plastic, and they feature markings or symbols to show which burner it corresponds to and the heat level. Modern gas hobs often have ergonomically designed knobs that provide an excellent grip and are easy to use. When it comes to the placement of the knobs, there are two options to choose from. The first option sees the knobs placed on the front of the hob, making them easily accessible without reaching over hot surfaces. They are also easier to see and adjust the heat settings while cooking. The second option sees the knobs placed on the side of the hob. This placement offers a sleeker and more minimalist look, but it can be inconvenient to reach over hot pans to adjust the heat. Materials The materials used on a gas hob are crucial for its durability and ease of cleaning. There are two common materials used on the cooking surface are stainless steel and tempered glass. Stainless steel is the most popular choice for gas hobs, and for good reason. It’s durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. Stainless steel hobs can also blend in with most kitchen styles. Tempered glass is another option, offering a sleek and modern finish. It’s also scratch-resistant but slightly more fragile than stainless steel. Glass surfaces hide dirt and spills poorly, which means it may require more cleaning than other materials. Maintenance A gas hob requires regular maintenance to ensure it works correctly and safely. Cleaning the burners and base frequently can prevent clogging and ensure an even and efficient flame. Regular checks of the gas supply connections and the tubing can ensure there are no leaks or blockages. It is a good idea to have an annual check of the hob by a gas engineer to ensure it works correctly and safely. Remember always turn off the gas and make sure the hobs are cool before attempting any maintenance. Conclusion A gas hob is an excellent choice if you want a powerful, precise and professional style of cooking in your kitchen. Whether you need a two-burner hob for a small kitchen or a five-burner hob for a larger family or entertainer, consider the heat output, burner layout, ignition type, control knobs and material when making your decision. The Flame Failure Device is a safety feature that is now mandatory in the UK and gives reassurance to cut-off the gas supply should the flame accidentally extinguish. With regular maintenance, a gas hob should provide excellent service for years to come.