Gas Hobs

Gas Hobs

Width is the first and least negotiable decision, because it has to match the cut-out in the worktop. A 60cm hob is the standard domestic size and takes four burners, which suits most kitchens and most pan sets. Stepping up to 75cm or 90cm buys either a fifth burner or more space between them, and that spacing is the real gain: four burners on a 60cm hob will not take four large pans at once, whereas a 75cm will. A wide burner model concentrates higher output on one ring for a wok or a stockpot. Surface material then decides both look and upkeep. Stainless steel is the hard wearing option and hides less than people expect. Black glass, sold as gas on glass, wipes clean in one pass because the surface is flat around the burners rather than pressed, which is the main practical advantage over enamel. Enamel and white finishes suit traditional kitchens. Two things to check before ordering: gas hobs must be installed by a registered gas installer, and the gas type available at the property, since a hob supplied for natural gas needs a conversion kit for LPG. Measure the existing cut-out rather than the old hob, as they are not always the same.

Bosch dominates the range, spanning Series 2 60cm hobs in white, stainless steel and black enamel, a Series 4 60cm with black glass, Series 4 75cm hobs in stainless steel, Series 6 75cm in black and black glass including a wide burner model, and a Series 6 90cm gas on glass. Candy supplies 60cm four ring hobs in stainless steel and gas on glass in black, and Zanussi 60cm four burner and slim line hobs in stainless steel. Neff makes an N70 75cm in stainless steel, Samsung a 60cm in black glass, and Electrolux, Hoover and Cata four ring 60cm models, with Leisure adding a Classic 60cm freestanding gas cooker. For electric and induction see Hobs, and for freestanding models Cookers.