Ceramic Hobs

Ceramic Hobs

An electric ceramic hob heats a coiled element under a smooth glass surface, so unlike induction it works with any pan you already own, which is why it remains the straightforward replacement for an older solid plate hob. The glass wipes clean flat and there is nothing to lift out. It holds heat longer than induction, which helps for simmering and hinders when you need to stop a pan boiling over, and the surface stays hot after switching off. Width runs 57cm, 58cm, 59cm and 60cm for a standard unit, up to 77cm and 80cm for a wider run with more space between pans. The other real choice is the control type. Touch control sits flush in the glass and cleans in one wipe. Knob control, either side-mounted or front, gives you something physical to grip and is easier to judge without looking, which suits anyone who dislikes touch panels or has wet hands. Zone counts run four or five, and dual zone models expand one ring for a larger pan.

Belling covers 60cm and 77cm hobs in both touch control and knob versions and a 77cm dual zone. Electrolux supplies 59cm and 60cm built-in models in touch and knob control, Zanussi 60cm four zone in touch and knob, and Beko 58cm four zone and 80cm models. Bosch brings the Serie 2 at 59cm and 60cm, Neff the N50 at 59cm and N70 at 80cm, with Haier, Hoover, Candy, Samsung and Blomberg completing the 57cm to 60cm range. See also Induction Hobs and more in Hobs.