Make your kitchen a culinary gem by choosing the perfect hob

Types

Gas hobs are versatile and, as technology has improved, ceramic hobs have become more responsive. Ceramic glass hobs are very durable. Most have dual-ring zones to accommodate large or small pans. Induction hobs work by creating magnetism between hob and ferrous metal pan, which is efficient, and after you remove the pan the hob is cool to the touch.

Styles and sizes

The standard hob is 50 or 60cm square, but new shapes and sizes have increased flexibility. Wider hobs can fit extra burners, while 30cm domino hobs suit small spaces. A layout of four burners side by- side is ideal for island units. Oval or curved hobs sit comfortably in corners. Right: The TeppanYaki slim line flat hob has sensor controls and electronic timer. It costs £1,299 from Aeg Electrolux.

Features

Safety features like child locks and automatic spark re-ignition make cooking more family friendly. On ceramic hobs a residual heat indicator lets you know how hot it is. On gas hobs, choose a grid pan support system that lets you move pans easily. Right: This gas hob features a clever, continuous grate design, using the entire surface, making it more energy efficient.It costs £1899 from Viking.

Cleaning

Flush-fit hobs make cleaning easier, as does a glass-on-gas or ceramic hob surface. For gas hobs, use pan stands that are dishwasher safe. Right: The Continuum Linear Induction Hob features touch sensitive controls with 15 power levels and three direct access levels. It costs £800 from De Dietrich.

Eco-issues

The eco choice has to be induction cooking. Boiling a pint of water takes 1.5 minutes with induction as opposed to 4.5 with ceramic, and as soon as you lift the pan off it stops heating.