How to choose a hob: induction, ceramic or gas
This category includes built-in hobs from Electrolux, Bosch, Berk, Bauer, Candy, Gorenje and Whirlpool: induction, ceramic, gas and combined models from 30 to 90 cm wide, as well as hobs with an integrated extractor. Some models are in our warehouse in Riga and available right away. The cards show the price with VAT and availability, and the list can be sorted by price. Below we sum up what to check so the hob fits your worktop, your pans and your electrical connection.
Types of hobs
Induction hobs
They heat the pan itself with an electromagnetic field: fast to heat up, precise to control, and the surface around the pan gets less hot. You need pans with a magnetic base.
Hobs with an integrated extractor
The extractor is built into the hob, so you need no separate cooker hood above it. Also suitable for a kitchen island.
Ceramic hobs
A heating element under the glass heats up, so any pan with a flat base works. Usually cheaper than induction, but slower to heat up and cool down.
Gas and combined hobs
They need a gas connection made by a certified specialist. A combined hob has both gas burners and an electric zone.
Speed, electricity, cookware and safety based on independent tests: our guide Induction or ceramic hob.
By brand: Electrolux, Bosch, Berk, Bauer and Candy.
Size and installation
- Width. The standard width is 60 cm. There are also 30 cm two-zone hobs for a small kitchen and wide 80-90 cm hobs with room for large pans.
- Cut-out. What matters most is the cut-out size in the worktop, not the outer size of the hob. The manufacturer gives the cut-out and the allowed worktop thickness in the installation instructions.
- Above an oven. If an oven goes under the hob, check in the instructions that the manufacturer allows it and what ventilation gap is needed.
- Hob with an extractor. The cabinet below needs room for the duct or filter, so the drawers may be shallower.
How many zones you need
Two zones on a 30 cm hob are enough for one or two people or as an extra hob. Four zones on a 60 cm hob are the standard for a family. Wider hobs have five zones or free Flex areas where a pan can go anywhere. Also look at the diameter and power of the largest zone: it decides how fast a big pot boils.
Electrical connection
Induction and ceramic hobs are powerful, so they are usually connected to a separate circuit with a suitable circuit breaker, not to a socket. The manufacturer gives the total power and whether the hob can be connected to one, two or three phases in the specifications and installation instructions. Leave the connection to an electrician.
Useful features
- Boost. Briefly increases a zone's power, for example to boil water faster.
- Bridge or Flex zones. Join two zones into one for a large pan, such as a griddle.
- Hob2Hood. An Electrolux hob switches on and controls a compatible cooker hood by itself.
- Safety. Child lock, timer and residual heat indicator.
Delivery and warranty
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if my pans work on induction?
Hold a magnet to the base of the pan: if it sticks firmly, the pan works. Induction-ready cookware is usually marked with a coil symbol on the packaging or base.
Induction or ceramic?
Induction heats up faster, is more precise to control, and the surface around the pan gets less hot. Ceramic is cheaper and works with any pan that has a flat base.
Does an induction hob need a three-phase connection?
Not always. Many models can be connected to one or two phases. The manufacturer explains how in the installation instructions, and an electrician assesses it against your electrical supply.
Can a hob be installed above an oven?
Usually yes, if both manufacturers allow it and the ventilation gaps are kept. The requirements are in the installation instructions.
How do I clean a glass hob?
With a soft cloth and a cleaner for ceramic glass hobs, removing burnt-on residue with a special scraper. Abrasive sponges and powders leave scratches.
