Which gas hob to choose: types and modifications
Unlike stoves, hobs are designed to be built into the countertop in any convenient place in the kitchen. Let's look at how to choose a built-in gas hob from the options available on the market today.
The panels differ in their operating principle. They can be:
- dependent - come complete with ovens, the control panel is common, located on the hob or on the oven;
- independent - can be used independently or combined with any ovens.
The type of controls may also be different:
- rotary - traditional mechanical method;
- recessed - when turned on, the handle can be recessed deep into the panel;
- touch - control is carried out by pressing the sensor;
- touch-rotary - combines sensors and handles, usually used for dependent structures.
Well, and, in fact, the materials themselves from which the panel is made:
- stainless steel is a practical and durable material that is not susceptible to chips and scratches;
- enameled steel is an affordable option, easy to clean, and comes in a variety of designs and colors;
- cast iron is the most resistant material that can withstand high loads; Tempered glass is an elegant, modern material that is scratch-resistant;
- glass ceramics is the most expensive and durable material, but is intolerant to abrasive effects.
When determining which gas hob to choose, you should listen to the advice of professionals and give preference to trusted companies that provide a guarantee and have a good reputation.
Recommendations for choosing a hob
It is very difficult to navigate the range of hobs offered on the market without prior preparation. Before choosing a gas hob, you should decide on the following parameters:
- dimensions of the device;
- number and type of burners;
- surface material;
- installation method (dependent, independent);
- control type.
In addition to the material of the hob, you should also pay attention to the material from which the grates are made. It can be enameled steel and cast iron. By choosing a model with steel grilles, you can save a little. But during operation they deform quite quickly. Cast iron is a very strong material. Grates made from it not only look more stylish, but can also outlive the stove itself, provided you don’t drop them. They are heavy, so they are more stable and do not slip even on glass.
Choosing a gas hob - expert advice
To choose the right reliable and high-quality gas hob, you should pay attention to a number of parameters :
- burners - their number and composition, which can vary from 1 to 7, including additional electric or induction, grill and turbo burners;
- size - from 29 to 90 cm in width and 50-55 cm in depth, depending on the number of burners on the surface;
- type of gratings - steel, lighter and thinner, and cast iron - durable and powerful;
- safety - the presence of a thermocouple and gas control, which turns off the gas supply when the burner goes out;
- the presence of electric ignition - allows you to light the burner without the use of matches and lighters;
- the presence of a timer - a convenient device that does not allow you to forget the burner is on; it can be audible for notification and self-switching off;
- blocking - relevant for families with children, blocks the control panel;
- control panel configuration - the arrangement of elements can be transverse, lateral or central.
How to choose a hob, gas or combined, how many burners and what power depends on the needs of the family and the volume of cooking.
The best gas hobs
There are many panels from different brands, but to get acquainted, it’s worth looking at the most popular ones on the household appliances market.
Indesit THP 641 W/IX
A panel from a reputable and popular company for four burners with a stainless steel surface. Installed
regardless of the oven.
Electric ignition and gas control functions are included. Cast iron grates included. Mechanical control using rotary switches.
Characteristics:
- type of device - gas;
- working surface - stainless steel;
- number of burners - four;
- installation - independent;
- control - mechanics;
- electric ignition - yes;
- gas control - yes;
- dimensions - 59*51 cm;
- grates - cast iron;
- color - silver;
- price - 12347 rubles.
pros
- stylish design;
- electric ignition function;
- cast iron grates;
- double circuit nozzle;
- convenient gas adjustment;
- inexpensive;
- easy to clean;
- standard burners.
Minuses
- the surface quickly loses its good appearance;
- small in depth;
- one of the gratings is not horizontal;
- has uneven corners.
LG HVW6442AG
High-quality equipment from LG has an unusual switch arrangement and grille design. Stainless steel has
Nice shade, easy to clean. Equipped with the basic functions of gas control and electric ignition. It has standard sizes and is easy to integrate into almost any countertop.
Characteristics:
- appliance type - gas panel;
- work surface material - stainless steel;
- installation - independent;
- control - rotary switches;
- dimensions - 58*51 cm;
- automatic ignition - yes;
- gas control - yes;
- number of burners - four;
- express burner - one;
- panel color - silver;
- price - 14,400 rubles.
pros
- gas supply control;
- automatic ignition;
- acceptable price;
- the presence of an express burner;
- does not leave streaks or stains;
- The handles are removed for cleaning.
Minuses
- due to non-standard sizes it is inconvenient to clean;
- Electric ignition needs to be kept on for a long time.
Weissgauff HGG 641 BGH
Stylish four-burner hob with tempered glass coating. Includes separate cast iron grates
. Availability of gas control function and automatic ignition.
The model is suitable for a modern interior. You can cook WOK cookware on one burner. The distance between the burners allows you to comfortably place the necessary utensils.
Characteristics:
- product type - gas panel;
- number of burners - four;
- surface - tempered glass;
- installation - independent;
- gas control - on;
- electric ignition - yes;
- control - mechanical;
- grates - cast iron;
- dimensions - 58*40.1 cm;
- triple burner - one;
- black color;
- price - 11990 rubles;
pros
- easy to clean;
- Handles and burners are conveniently located;
- presence of gas control;
- presence of a wok burner;
- I don’t move the grates, it’s easy to clean;
- heats up quickly;
- acceptable cost.
Minuses
- some note incorrect operation of the gas control;
- It takes a long time to get used to the handles.
Hotpoint-Ariston PCN 641 T IX
A four-burner panel with an unusual style and design. Some may find the location of the burners not
very convenient.
Equipped with gas control function and electric ignition. Cast iron grates are included. Mechanical controls are easy to learn. Externally it looks quite attractive.
Characteristics:
- panel type - gas;
- working surface - stainless steel;
- number of burners - four;
- electric ignition - yes;
- gas control - yes;
- grates - cast iron;
- control - mechanical;
- installation - independent;
- dimensions - 59*51 cm;
- express burner - one;
- triple circuit - one;
- color - silver;
- price - 11881 rubles.
pros
- high-quality assembly;
- good materials;
- stylish design;
- The cast iron grate is easy to clean;
- heats up quickly;
- not easily soiled;
- easy to clean.
Minuses
- the surface may be scratched;
- It takes a long time to select a detergent.
Fornelli PGA 45 Fiero
Independent gas model with three burners with a tempered glass surface. Built-in gas control and electric ignition.
Suitable for a family of three and a small kitchen countertop. Fits into any modern interior. The cast iron grates are separate, making the panel easier to clean.
Characteristics:
- appliance type - gas panel;
- installation - independent;
- number of burners - three;
- automatic ignition - yes;
- gas supply regulation - yes;
- dimensions - 45*51 cm;
- control - mechanical;
- surface - tempered glass;
- grates - cast iron;
- service life - 7 years;
- adapter for wok dishes;
- black color;
- price - 9490 rubles.
pros
- suitable for a small kitchen;
- fast heating;
- neat design;
- easy to clean;
- convenient burners;
- presence of wok-burner;
- high-quality assembly;
- affordable.
Minuses
- handles are not strong enough;
- the middle burner is located inconveniently;
- When built in, the panel does not adhere to the table.
Teka WISH Maestro CGW LUX 60
- Material: glass ceramics
- Burners – 4
- Control - touch buttons
- Safety - gas control, heat indicator
Among the advantages of the model noted by users are the presence of a sound timer for the operation of the burners and a control lock function. It has everything you need: electric ignition when starting, durable cast iron grates and an express burner. The surface of the panel is equipped with a thermal indicator that prevents accidental contact with hot elements.
Built-in gas hob - installation
When installing the stove, you will have to take into account the fact that the kitchen is already installed and, perhaps, was not originally designed to accommodate it. Drops of grease and water will fall on the wall if you do not install a protective apron or cover the tiles with a special film. Connecting a built-in gas panel should consist of several steps:
- Illumination of the work area. Spotlights are placed above the future stove.
- Changing the configuration of utilities. A gas hose is connected to the connection point, and the device is inserted into the panel prepared for it. The tube is connected to it using a winding.
- Connecting a gas cylinder. If the type of hose or gas pipeline design makes it impossible to connect gas, a tube with a balloon nozzle is used.
- System testing. After the winding is fixed, a soap solution must be applied to it. If bubbles appear on it after turning on the device, there is a gas leak and it must be eliminated.
Korting HG 965 CTX
- Material: stainless steel
- Burners – 5
- Controls - rotary knobs
- Safety - gas control
Wide and spacious independent gas hob, designed for large volumes of cooking. The width is 90 cm, which allows you to place even large dishes. Equipped with 5 burners, including an express burner and a triple turbo burner. The mechanical control panel is located at the leading edge of the surface. The gratings are made of cast iron and have additional crossbars for increased stability. Ignition occurs automatically when the switch handle is turned.
Gas hob - characteristics
In addition to technical aspects, there are other indicators that allow you to distinguish one slab from another and make the right choice, focusing on your capabilities and desires. Any built-in appliance (gas hob too) has unique features - dimensions, weight, brand or installation method. For a slab these characteristics are:
- number of burners;
- hob dimensions;
- integrity of the manufacturer of the built-in stove;
- model - classic or corner.
Built-in gas hob - burners
A burner powered by natural gas does not place any special demands on the cookware, which an electric stove cannot boast of. Almost any built-in gas hob has an even number of burners - two or four. You can also find stoves with three or five burners on sale, but their range is usually small. It would be nice if they were equipped with fire spreaders, which would be useful for boiling milk or preparing stews.
Built-in gas hob dimensions
The choice of a specific model also depends on the size of the slab surface. Its depth ranges from 51-55 mm, and its width depends only on the number of burners. To understand which built-in gas hob can be built into a ready-made set, you need to know all the existing size options:
- 2-burner models – 306 by 546 mm.
- 3-burner models – 450 by 510 mm.
- 4-burner models – 560 by 490 mm.
- Models with 5 burners – 950 by 520 mm.
Rating of built-in gas hobs
Every year, lists of the most reliable models of any household appliance are compiled based on customer ratings, reviews and technical features. The best built-in gas hobs are produced in Slovenia, Russia, China, Germany and Japan. The following brands deserve special trust:
- Hansa. German manufacturers say that the main advantage of their stoves is comfort and practicality. Optionally, the control controls can be located not only in the front, but also on the side, so the panel can be placed in a corner kitchen.
- Siemens. Gas stoves from this brand promise to turn home cooking into a professional process thanks to FlameTronic stable fire technology and high safety standards.
- Gorenje. The cost of these high-quality slabs has recently begun to fall, because in addition to being produced in Slovenia, Belarusians began to collect them. The brand has a lot of black matte panels with a special protective coating.
- Eyelid. The brand is a champion among inexpensive kitchen gadgets and built-in panels.
- Bosch. The company promises automatic ignition and different degrees of heating of the dishes.
Kuppersbusch GMS 9651.0 E
- Material: enameled steel
- Burners – 5
- Control - front
- Security - no data
Independent gas surface. The control panel is located at the front. The menu allows you to smoothly adjust the degree of heating of the burners, adjusting the temperature to the desired level while cooking. There is also an express burner and a triple crown burner. Ignition is automatic.
Control Panel
In most devices, the control unit is represented by mechanical rotary switches, familiar from the times of old Soviet stoves. However, their implementation has become much prettier and more modern.
Mechanical regulators are reliable and allow you to smoothly regulate the degree of heating. They can be recessed. This means that they can be pushed deep into the body so that the handles do not get dirty.
Touch control is installed in the latest generation models. These products are equipped with many built-in functions, and therefore cost a lot of money. The disadvantage is that the system often breaks down, but it is not easy to repair it.
In addition to the type of adjustment, you should look at the location of the tuning unit.
- In front is the most comfortable option, but you need to make sure that the elements do not become hot during operation. To do this, they are installed near the lowest-power heater. There are devices where the panel is raised above the tabletop, and the adjustment block is located on the beveled edge.
- From the side – this increases the width of the unit. And during the cooking process, it can be inconvenient to reach for distant switches. But it’s safer, because it will be difficult for small children to reach the hands.
Hotpoint-Ariston PCN 640 T (AN) R
- Material: enameled steel
- Burners – 4
- Controls - rotary knobs
- Safety - gas control
A laconic black hob with 4 burners arranged crosswise - this arrangement allows you to simultaneously put several large containers on the fire that will not interfere with each other. The burner set includes an express burner and a triple turbo burner. Ignition is automatic when the burner is turned on. The grille is made of enameled stainless steel and is gracefully curved.
Gas hob - technical specifications
These devices are highly economical because natural gas provides fast and uniform heating of the dishes in which food is cooked. A built-in gas hob has advantages over an independent one: it weighs less and can be built in and connected in a place convenient for the housewife in the kitchen unit. When purchasing, you should pay attention to such characteristics as:
- Number of rows of flame. In classic stoves, the fire burns in one or two rows, but in the most modern examples with WOK technology, another row of flame is added for cooking in large-diameter pots and pans.
- Gas control. If water gets on the surface of the burner or the flame goes out for any other reason, the sensor is triggered and the gas supply is turned off.
- Auto-ignition . This function allows you to light the burner with one turn of the knob.
- Burners with different power levels. This way you can simultaneously boil water, simmer meat over low heat and cook caramel for the cake.
Maunfeld EGHG 64.1CB/G
- Material: tempered glass
- Burners – 4
- Controls - rotary knobs
- Safety - gas control
The elegant black panel made of durable glass is equipped with 4 burners with individual stable cast-iron grates for each, which simplifies the quick removal of carbon deposits after cooking and avoids surface deformation under uneven load. The control knobs are compactly located on the right along the front edge of the panel.
What material is best for a gas hob?
To choose a high-quality hob that performs all functions, you should start by weighing the pros and cons of the materials used to make it. There are only four types of built-in gas hobs:
- Strained glass. It's a cheap coating that's resistant to pinpoint impacts and scratches, but its edges are susceptible to chipping.
- Glass ceramics. If you choose from different types of glass, then only this one guarantees resistance to dents and other damage.
- Stainless steel. This is not to say that stainless steel is not the surface material for a gas hob that it would be better not to choose. These are reliable stoves for any kitchen design.
- Enameled steel. The most inexpensive and easy-to-care material of all the above.
Built-in stainless steel gas hob
Stainless steel can withstand heavy pressure, severe mechanical damage and shock. Its only drawback is that dirt quickly penetrates the metal and leaves dark spots on it, so if food gets on it, you need to quickly clean the stove. There are several recommendations for choosing such a built-in panel:
- Preference for glossy finishes. There are also matte ones, but every scratch will be visible on them, so the first option is more practical.
- The presence of a cast iron grate. Since this gas hob material heats up quickly, the presence of a grate prevents you from getting burned or accidentally turning over a pan standing on the burner.
- Purchasing special oil for stainless steel. It should be applied after each cleaning, and then polish the surface with a microfiber cloth.
Built-in gas hob - glass
Tempered glass is used only in conjunction with the gas heating method, because the maximum temperature of the electric one is much higher, which is why such a built-in stove would crack during the first cooking. The glass tolerates temperature changes in gas well and does not form a network of cracks. The built-in gas hob has several advantages:
- Modal heating zones. Only the area under the pan is turned on, so you can choose a burner for a container of any diameter and not be afraid that the dish will cook too slowly. The panels of the latest models are equipped with autofocus, which itself adjusts to the size of the pan.
- Dependence of quality on price. The high cost cannot be considered an advantage, but it guarantees the reliability of glass or glass ceramics and the long service life of such a stove.
- Flexibility. Thanks to the plasticity of glass, a built-in gas hob can compensate for incorrect angles of kitchen floors or errors when installing a set.
Gefest PVG 1212
- Material: enameled steel
- Burners – 4
- Controls - rotary knobs
- Safety - gas control
This budget model has won the status of "Customer's Choice" due to its simplicity, affordability and reliability. Among its advantages are the presence of gas control functions, automatic electric ignition of burners, as well as grates made of cast iron. The front part of the panel, where the control elements are located, is slightly raised, which protects the handles from accidental flooding and contamination by splashing grease.
Gas built-in corner hob
A small kitchen space is not a reason to refuse to equip it with the latest technology. If you are looking for an answer to the question of which built-in gas hob is best to purchase, then you should choose among the corner models. There are only two ways to place a purchase in a ready-made interior:
- Make it. This means that on one side you will have to place a sink, and on the other, a surface for cutting and processing food.
- Place the hob in the corner of the room. It will be closely adjacent to one of the work areas: you will have to build a hood above it, installed like a wall cabinet.
Ricci RGN-KA2002IX
- Material: stainless steel
- Burners – 2
- Controls - rotary knobs
- Safety - gas control
Convenient and compact 2-burner model, made in the “Domino” design with switches located along the front edge. Its width is only 29 cm, which allows the device to be installed even in the smallest kitchens. Despite the low cost, the list of functions includes all modern devices, including gas control and auto-ignition. The diamond-shaped grille is made of cast iron, which increases the strength and stability of the panel.
Best 4 Burner Gas Hobs
Gas built-in panels with 4 burners are the most common and popular option. They allow you to simultaneously cook several dishes for the whole family and are sized to fit almost any standard tables and cabinets.
Smeg PVL664CN - ultra-modern panel
This gas hob combines stylish, modern design and high efficiency. It is equipped with unique flat Blade burners.
This design provides a continuous circle of flame directed straight upward, which speeds up the heating of the cookware and its contents by 20%. The glass-ceramic panel itself cools quickly, is easy to clean and has protection against overheating.
The model is made in a modern Hi-Tech design; steel grilles are coated with titanium coating, capable of withstanding temperatures up to 1100°C. For an additional fee, you can purchase a set of decorative grilles in the shape of birds, fruits, leaves or butterflies.
Advantages:
- Unique shape of burners;
- 20% faster heating;
- Titanium coating of grilles;
- Glass ceramic surface;
- Possibility of installing decorative stops;
- Overheat protection.
See also: Review of the 10 best brands of winter boots for men
Flaw:
- High price.
The Smeg PVL664CN panel will be appreciated by those who love versatility, reliability and at the same time are looking for truly original kitchen appliances. This stove will become a real decoration for a kitchen decorated in a modern style.
Hotpoint-Ariston TQG 641 – ergonomic hob
The original diamond-shaped arrangement of the burners in this model allows you to place dishes on the stove as conveniently as possible. The surface of the panel itself is made of tempered glass, which has increased shock resistance.
Caring for such a surface is quite simple: dirt can be easily removed with a damp sponge, and stains can be easily removed with a special glass spray. The cast iron grate consists of three separate parts, making it easy to clean. And silicone pads prevent scratches on the glass.
Advantages:
- Good location of burners;
- Durable tempered glass surface;
- Easy cleaning;
- Lattice made of separate parts;
- Automatic electric ignition;
- Minimum fire option.
Flaws:
- There is no burner with a triple or even double crown.
The TQG 641 stove from Hotpoint-Ariston has an optimal price-quality ratio. It is convenient and suitable for most kitchens.
Electrolux GPE 363 MB – simple but tasteful
The gas hob has a universal design, suitable for kitchens in both modern and classic styles.
The black-painted enameled steel surface is easy to clean and does not require the use of special products.
The model is equipped with burners of different power levels for simultaneous cooking in dishes of any diameter. One of the burners has a triple crown, allowing you to cook in a large pot or wok. Regulators allow you to finely adjust the flame power.
Advantages:
- Triple crown burner;
- Universal design;
- Easy cleaning;
- Fine adjustment of the flame;
- Gas control and auto-ignition.
Flaws:
- The handles are a little tight at first.
Easy to use and affordable, the Electrolux GPE 363 MB panel is suitable for those who cook a lot and often.
Gefest SG CH1210 K5 - the best budget option
Discreet design and ease of operation are some of the main advantages of this panel, if you do not take into account its low cost.
Control levers located on the side are less likely to become dirty, unlike most other panels where they are located on top.
Gefest 1210 has stable cast iron grates on which even wet dishes do not slip. In addition, the kit includes an additional removable stop for the Turk (or any other utensil with a narrow bottom).
Advantages:
- Low price;
- Simple controls;
- Burners of different power;
- Stable cast iron grates;
- Classic design.
Flaws:
- No gas control.
Gas stove SG CH 1210 K5 from GEFEST is the best option for those who need an inexpensive but reliable hob without unnecessary bells and whistles.
Main types of gas hobs
The types of gas panels sold in stores are different, so you need to know the main features that distinguish them:
- number of built-in gas burners (1-5);
- the material from which the surface is made;
- the presence or absence of an oven (affects the cost and dimensions).
Additionally, you should pay attention to the functionality - what additional capabilities and devices the selected device model has.
General recommendations: choosing a gas hob
Knowing the main nuances, you can begin to choose a manufacturer, guided by reviews and your own impressions of the brands. The main parameter that you need to focus on is the kitchen area. Small spaces require compact devices (it is optimal to install the oven separately). Ventilation in the room should be good to reduce heating of the air.
When choosing a model, you need to take into account the size of the hob. It averages from 30 to 90 cm. The height of the main part of the appliance (without oven) can be from 3 cm to 10 cm, the depth is on average 54 cm.
There are narrow models on sale that can be fastened with special frames. Materials are selected in accordance with the chosen style and interior of the kitchen space, since equipment should complement the decor, make it deep and harmonious.
Thus, the answer to the question of how to choose a convenient and practical gas hob will be careful attention to the process of selecting models. Taking into account the listed nuances and features, you can buy equipment that will last a long time, help optimize the cooking process, reduce the time spent in the kitchen, increasing quality.