Interestingly, both gas stoves and hobs are cooktops, however, they differ from each other when it comes to design and functionality.
Most people would opt for gas stoves or gas cookers as a simpler choice for cooking. However, modern hobs come with several advantages. In fact, they are getting more popular among homemakers today.
Unique Differences Between Gas Stoves and Hobs
Conventional gas cookers have a freestanding physical look while hobs, on the other hand, spot a built-in design.
Also, regular gas stoves are limited in terms of basic functions such as an on and off switch for example. But in modern hobs, you’ll find a parade of features all installed to make the cooking process simple. Below are some of the unique differences between gas stoves and gas hobs:
- Design and structure
- Installation
- Heat control and functions
- Maintenance and cleaning
- Pricing
- Safety
Design and structure
Gas stoves come with a projecting design and are easy to use and maintain. They usually come with raised legs that are commonly non-slip with a stable platform base.
In addition, it is easier to monitor your cooking while cleaning at the same time when using a gas stove. Furthermore, it isn’t fixed to the counter and as such, is easier to move around.
Gas hobs, on the other hand, are bigger and might appear bulkier. The shape of the gas hob is smooth and with zero edges or borders.
Also, its design is usually slim and will no doubt give you lots of space while making your kitchen look neat.
Gas hobs are usually installed in a kitchen making them difficult to move around from place to place. This also means they are harder to replace.
Installation of gas stoves and gas hobs
With a gas stove, you have to install it on a platform while its pipeline has to be linked to your LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) cylinder. The process is simple and requires very little effort.
Additionally, because they are portable, moving them from place to place is not an issue. Thus, the gas cooker’s position can be altered when needed. The cooking appliance is also simple to replace.
As for gas hobs, as a result of the built-in imbibed design, it comes with, you may have to make significant changes to the entire structure of your kitchen.
Any slight errors during its installation or when trying to relocate the appliance may severely harm your kitchen cabinets or design.
Heat control and functions
Generally, built-in hobs have a lot more advanced features than conventional gas stoves. Their knobs and controls are incredibly smooth and they often come in both electric and gas models.
Other features you’d find in a gas hob include alarms and sensors which go off to warn you against overcooking and food burning.
You can also find several heat control options on a gas hob that will enhance your cooking preferences along with many other exciting features.
Meanwhile, gas stoves are simple to use, however, lack that resplendence of features. Basically, it consists of the regular cooking and heating methods whereby a knob is turned to adjust the flames.
You’ll have to ensure that the meal is preserved for the right amount of time to prevent it from overcooking or burning.
Gas cookers are severely limited in terms of heat control options. Thus, you shouldn’t expect any alarms or sensors. This means you are consigned to manually keep track of your cooking.
Maintenance and cleaning
Maintaining a gas stove is also relatively simple since it is entirely exposed atop the cabinet. Its attachments and other components can easily be reached for cleaning. Moreover, when something spills on the gas cooker, it can be cleaned simply by lifting or moving it.
Generally, gas hobs are a bit tricky compared to gas stoves when it comes to cleaning. As a matter of fact, due to their setup, you may have to call in a professional to clean it for you.
Because the ceramic surface of gas hobs are easily prone to marks and scratches, they have to be wiped very carefully. Gas hobs are fastened tightly to the kitchen counter and, as such, are more difficult to clean than gas stoves.
Pricing of gas stoves and gas hobs
Unsurprisingly, gas stoves are cheaper when compared to gas hobs. When you take into consideration the entire features along with a sleek and contemporary appearance, you’d understand why it is costlier.
There’s also the extra cost you have to take into account when it comes to installing the gas hob. However, the good thing about gas hobs is that they can help you save money on gas thanks to the various flame and heat controls.
Safety
When it comes to safety, gas stoves take the trophy due to their elevated design which ensures the legs are raised and set back from the platform.
Typically, gas stoves also have a knob that experiences a wee bit of friction when turned and isn’t as sleek and smooth as the controls you’d find on a hob.
Because of this setup, you’re much less likely to risk slippage or damage which could lead to a fire hazard.
Furthermore, gas stoves hardly contact the platform which means potentially dangerous or combustible objects are prevented from touching it directly.
On the other hand, gas hobs get to touch the platform directly. Also, if the switches or knobs are damaged, the hob can erupt into huge flames. This can potentially burn or destroy the entire kitchen.
That’s why it is very important to take extra care when handling the gas hob. If you have kids at home, you’ll have to be on high alert to prevent them from going near the hob as its flat, smooth surface can be tempting to them.
Final Words
Both gas stoves and gas hobs do a great job of cooking our meals. However, you’ll have to decide to choose which would best suit you and your household.
Gas hobs come with a lot of features but can be quite expensive to acquire and set up. You’ll also have to consider its safety concerns.
Unlike the hob, gas stoves are more affordable and straightforward. They are simple to use, maintain, and generally safer.
