Chinese built in hob

Types of Chinese built-in hobs

Chinese built-in hobs come in different types designed to cater to various cooking needs and preferences.

• Gas hobs: Different gas burners can be found on built-in Chinese hobs, varying from one to five burners. In most cases, they operate using natural gas or propane. Chinese gas hobs have powerful burners that provide high heat required for Chinese cooking techniques such as stir-frying. Moreover, users can easily regulate the heat levels, making the cooking process more efficient.
• Induction hobs: The induction hobs have gained popularity in Chinese cooking because they are energy efficient, easy to clean, and provide precise heat control. These hobs use electromagnetic energy to heat up the cookware directly, thus making the cooking process faster. For induction hobs to work efficiently, the cookware has to be made of magnetic materials such as cast iron or stainless steel. Unlike gas hobs, induction hobs provide safer cooking environment since the cooking surface doesn't get hot. Also, they automatically detect the presence of cookware.
• Built-in hobs with both gas and induction options are available. Cookers who prefer using both methods can benefit from this type of hob. While the gas burners provide high heat during cooking, the induction burners offer precise temperature control.
• Stainless steel hobs: Most built-in hobs are made of stainless steel since the material is durable and can withstand extreme temperatures. Additionally, stainless steel hobs are less prone to corrosion, and rust can last for a long time with minimal maintenance. Hobs made with stainless steel are easy to clean, and they have a polished appearance that gives the kitchen an elegant look.
• Tempered glass hob: Another type of Chinese built-in hob is the tempered glass one. The hobs are made of heat resistant tempered glass, so they do not crack or shatter easily in case of impact. Like stainless steel hobs, the glass hobs come in different colors and designs to suit various tastes. Also, they have smooth surface, making them easy to clean.

Function and Features of Chinese Built-in Hobs

• Various Burner Configurations

  Built-in hobs usually come with different burner arrangements to suit users' cooking needs. Choosing one that matches the quantity of burners needed and their arrangement is easy. Some Chinese hobs have a single burner; others have up to six burners. The common arrangements are linear and rectangular configurations.

• Simmer and High-Efficiency Burners

  Some hobs have special simmer burners designed for low, steady heating. These burners are great for delicate cooking processes like sauce making. At the same time, some hobs have high-efficiency burners. These gas burners produce a concentrated flame for fast cooking. They have larger burner head designs and can reduce cooking time.

• Precise Flame Control

  Built-in gas hobs with precise flame control give users accurate gas adjustment. This feature allows users to fine-tune the flame intensity for different cooking tasks.

• Safety Lock Protection

  The safety lock protection feature on built-in Chinese hobs prevents accidental ignition. It enhances the users' safety and peace of mind while using hobs. The hobs have control knobs that can be locked to prevent children from tampering with the burners.

• Electronic Ignition System

  Most recently made built-in hobs have an easy electronic ignition system. Using this system is easy; it usually requires turning the control knob to the ignition setting. The ignition system provides a flame that lights up the burner. This ignition system is safer than the manual piezo ignition system.

• Knob Control and Touch Control

  Users who prefer traditional control methods will choose hobs with knob control. The hobs have control buttons on the front or side for adjusting heat levels. Also, built-in hobs with touch control provide a modern cooking experience. These hobs have a control panel with heat adjustment buttons.

• Timer Function

  Chinese hobs with a timer function enable users to schedule cooking tasks. Users can set the timer for up to one hour or even more. When the timer runs out, the built-in hob beeps to alert the user.

• Child Lock Function

  Child safety is a top priority when designing Chinese hobs. Many built-in hobs have a child lock function to enhance safety. The control panel is locked to prevent kids from accidentally turning on the burner.

Scenarios of Chinese built-in hobs

The built-in hobs made in China have various uses, which range from homes to educational institutions. Here are some instances of where they are used:

• In residences: Numerous Chinese-made built-in hobs are widely used in residential homes. Homeowners choose various hobs according to their preferred fuel type and cooking preferences. For instance, electric hobs are generally preferred when preparing Asian cuisines, while gas hobs are usually favored by Italian food enthusiasts.
• In restaurants: built-in hobs are commonly found in most restaurants. They are ideal for chefs as they can prepare food in large quantities within a short period. The chefs can also choose the type of hob depending on the cuisine they are preparing. For example, Chinese or Asian cuisine is mostly prepared using electric hobs, while Italian chefs prefer gas burners.
• In catering facilities: Catering facilities often use built-in hobs to prepare food for various events, parties, and business functions.
• In educational institutions: Built-in hobs are used in culinary schools and colleges found in several institutions. Also, various hospitality management schools have practical kitchen facilities equipped with built-in hobs to train aspiring chefs. Trainees learn different cooking techniques on various hobs.
• In hospitals and prisons: Built-in hobs are used in hospital kitchens to prepare food for patients. Generally, prison kitchens have specific hobs that are installed and used to prepare food for inmates. These hobs are manufactured in China.
• In residential complexes: Various complexes like condos, apartments, and townhouses have kitchenettes with built-in hobs. The hobs are ideal for kitchenette-style kitchens that are compact. The hobs are also used in residential complexes because they are energy efficient and low maintenance.

How to choose the built-in hob

When selecting a built-in hob, it is essential to consider certain factors to ensure it meets specific needs and requirements. With various options available on the market, such as electric and gas models, it is crucial to evaluate each (built-in) bhob's type features thoroughly before making a purchasing decision. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when selecting a built-in hob;

• Kitchen space: It is essential to measure the available space in the kitchen before exploring different types of built-in hobs. Built-in hobs come in different sizes, so knowing the specific size can help narrow down choices that fit perfectly in the given area. Keep in mind that other kitchen accessories and appliances contribute toward working space, so ensuring the built-in hob doesn't overcrowd the kitchen is essential. Additionally, when measuring the kitchen space, make sure to get the right measurements; this will prevent mistakes and errors when purchasing the item.
• Fuel type: As noted earlier, built-in hobs come in different types, including gas and electric models. Consumers should determine the availability of gas lines in their kitchen or the feasibility of using propane or natural gas in their area. Evaluate cooking preferences, as many chefs prefer gas hobs due to the control and immediate heat. On the other hand, consider the power supply for electric hobs, as they require a compatible voltage and amperage.
• Usage: When searching for a built-in hob, it is essential to evaluate cooking requirements and habits. Different hobs have different numbers of burners hence evaluating the number of burners needed is essential. For individuals who enjoy cooking several dishes simultaneously, a hob with more burners would suit their needs better. Conversely, a two-burner hob is ideal for simple tasks or individuals with limited cooking space.
• Compatibility: It is essential to consider whether the built-in hob is compatible with the existing kitchen setup and other appliances. Built-in hobs come in different types and models, so make sure to select one that works with the current kitchen style. Additionally, ensure that the built-in hob selected meets the specific requirements of installed kitchen units. Furthermore, built-in hobs are equipped with various features, such as compatibility with cookware and the current units in the kitchen.
• Budget: Cost is another crucial factor to consider. Built-in hobs are available at various prices, depending on features, brand, and model. When setting a budget, it is essential to determine built-in hob costs for gas and electric options. Also, consider installation costs for professional services.

FAQs

Q1: What fuel is used for Chinese built-in hobs?

A1: Most built-in hobs use either electricity or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), but some can work on natural gas. Check with the supplier for specifications to learn what type of fuel the hob uses.

Q2: How should built-in hobs be cleaned?

A2: Wipe the surface after each use with a damp cloth. Ensure the cooking surface has cooled down. Avoid using abrasive sponges or steel wool. These can scratch the surface of the hob. For tough stains, use a glass cooktop cleaner and microfiber cloth. Many hobs have removable burners. These can be soaked in soapy water to make cleaning easier.

Q3: What is the difference between a Chinese cooker hob and a stovetop?

A3: A hob and stovetop are the same things. Hobs are often referred to as kitchen stoves or stovetops. Hobs come in various designs, including gas burners and induction hobs.

Q4: Is professional installation needed for built-in hobs?

A4: It is best to get built-in hobs installed by a professional. The installation process may vary depending on the type of hob and fuel used. The manufacturer’s instructions will provide a detailed installation guide. Properly installing the hob ensures safe and efficient operation.

Q5: How many watts is a Chinese-built-in hob?

A5: The power wattage will depend on the number of cooking zones and the type of hob. For example, induction hobs can range from 1,000 to 3,700 watts per cooking zone. Built-in gas hobs have power ratings measured in kilowatts (KW). One KW is equal to about 1.3 watts. A 1.5 KW burner can give out around 10,500 BTUs.