What the stove looks like. How to choose an electric stove for the kitchen

  • 02.06.2019

OSB is a compressed three-layer material made from elongated chips of coniferous trees - the so-called wood wool, the length of chips is 60-90 millimeters.

The main feature of the material, as a rule, is aspen and pine, as a rule, the material for the manufacture of slabs is the different orientation of the chips in its layers.

In the middle, they are located at right angles to the covering layers, and in the lower and top layer- along the length of the entire slab.

The excellent mechanical strength of the material, and it significantly exceeds the strength of DPS and plywood, is due precisely to this multidirectional fiber.

It should be noted that the flexibility of the slab remains the same.

Three layers of the board are pressed under high temperature and pressure, impregnated with waterproof resins and waxes. Phenolic and formaldehyde resins are used as binder.

Application modern equipment and advanced manufacturing technologies ensure the uniformity of the slab in all directions - there are no chips, cracks or voids in it.

An important difference between the plates is the ability to withstand heavy loads, not because of the use of a binder, but because long shavings do an excellent job with the load, forming a structure without unnecessary overvoltage.

It has an optimal combination of high mechanical strength and elasticity.

  • OSB-1 - used at low humidity;
  • OSB-2 - used in dry rooms in the production of load-bearing structures;
  • OSB-3 - to create load-bearing structures at high humidity;
  • OSB-4 - are used if the structure is exposed to significant mechanical stress and is operated at high humidity.

Comparative characteristics and properties of plates

The boards are classified according to the European standard EN-300. The different binding elements of the slabs determine the scope of their application.

Moisture resistance

To determine in the environment with which properties each of the types of slabs can be used, use the parameter for swelling in thickness.

For this, the plate, after measuring the initial thickness, is placed in a liquid for a day, and then the amount of its swelling is measured.

According to the standards, there are extreme permissible values ​​for the swelling of the boards.

The following table illustrates this:

Thus, OSB-4 and OSB-3 boards have the same strength characteristics, however, if we take into account moisture resistance, then the third type is more preferable.

Compared to OSB-4, OSB-3 does not look so convincing, but it should be borne in mind that the characteristics of OSB-3 boards are quite enough for construction. And the cost of such a plate is much lower.

The size

Modern technologies can ensure the production of any slabs, but there are certain sizes of OSB slabs:

  • 1220 × 2440 mm.
  • 1220 × 3660 mm.
  • 1250 × 6000 mm.
  • 1250 × 2500 mm.
  • 1250 × 3700 mm.

Weight

Thanks to its light weight, OSB boards are widely used in construction.

Environmental friendliness of the OSB board material

OSB boards are made exclusively from high quality shavings. Spruce is predominantly used, but sometimes pine is also used.

Is the OSB stove harmful?

OSB boards use polyurethane resin based binders without formaldehyde. Thus, the content harmful substances in the stove does not exceed the permissible level.

OSB has excellent fire, physical, chemical and biological safety.

QSB plates

Separately, it is worth highlighting the QSB slabs. They have several advantages over OSB:

  • excellent adhesion of the layers is achieved due to the small chip size. This allows the QSB board to be used on a par with OSB;
  • the smallest swelling coefficient among OSB boards - about 12%;
  • intercom ratio increased by 30% compared to OSB-3;
  • boards have a high resistance against pulling screws, and also have good stability of nails at the edges;
  • QSB edges are perfectly smooth;
  • plates have strength, uniformity and rigidity;
  • simplified installation due to the small number of connections;
  • since the board has a high density - it can be processed different ways(sawing, drilling, milling) and not being afraid that it will be damaged;
  • the use of QSB plates allows for many types of structural connections;
  • boards are suitable for use in a humid environment of the second class.

QSB boards are used as load-bearing structural elements of the interior, as well as the main material for roofing.

Used in the production of packaging and containers, for interior decoration.

Application of OSB boards

Due to the extremely increased demand for OBS boards, there are currently many product options on the market that differ in the previously described parameters and technical characteristics.

OSB boards for flooring

What should you pay attention to when choosing OSB boards for laying on the floor?

  1. Pay attention to North American and European products - usually they are of higher quality.

The products are manufactured in full consideration of all world standards and technologies, including the E1 standard, which determines the environmental safety of the product;

  1. The floor can be laid on wooden logs or a concrete screed, depending on the room.

In the case of a screed, slabs no more than a centimeter thick are needed, and if you lay on wooden logs, then more massive slabs are needed - up to two centimeters;

  1. OSB-3 boards are the leader in flooring.

They are the most popular on the market, provide structural reliability, are waterproof and high-density;

  1. To calculate the required number of plates, it is necessary to determine at which location they will have the least amount of waste.

Cut the slab if necessary circular saw will not be difficult.

You should not use a jigsaw when cutting slabs, because when using this tool it is difficult to ensure a flat side surface.

OSB slab on concrete screed

OPS slabs are an excellent base for finishing coatings (tiles, parquet boards, laminate, linoleum) when replacing floors in rooms with concrete surfaces.

Height differences and various defects are not uncommon for concrete floor... OSB laying is able to make the surface perfectly flat, suitable for installing any type of coating.

The slab is made of multi-layer and dense, which provides good.

The natural OSB base retains heat well. Usually the slabs are laid on wooden blocks and using concrete screed smooth the surface.

If you want maximum deformation resistance and rigidity, use two layers of boards.

Lay them with an offset, fasten the edges together with special glue, ring and spiral nails. A similar masonry in two layers is used for.

Maintaining small gaps between the boards will compensate for expansion as a result of absorbing moisture from the environment.

Rough and finish OSB floor

In rooms that stand on a columnar or flooded foundation, the floors are usually laid on multi-layer boards or wooden logs from a bar. In this case, OSB floors can be used as a finishing or sub-floor.

The subfloor of the finished floor is laid in a maximum of two layers:

  • The first of them is mounted with a joint on the joists. Fastening to the lags is made with self-tapping screws with a step that is about thirty centimeters.
  • With the help of spiral nails, the layers are connected, and if necessary, glue is used to provide a more reliable fastening.

The sub-floor is installed on the underside of the log:

  • The surface that faces the ground is treated with a special coating, for example, bituminous mastic.
  • In the space between the logs, on the rough floor, insulation is laid and closed on top with a layer of material (glassine is suitable) for protection.

Some features of the processing of plates for different types of coatings

The unique properties of OSB boards make it possible to use them not only as independent material for covering, but also for work on the preparation of the base different types coatings.

  • Installation of OSB boards under the laminate. There are no special requirements here, except for ensuring the evenness of the surface at the joints, there are no.
  • Laying under carpet or linoleum. To ensure the most smooth transition at the joints of the material, it is necessary to use the thinnest plates treated with sealants. Provided that a single seam is formed during installation, expansion gaps are made from the side of the wall.
  • Fine finishing. Tile wear protection is required. This can be achieved by applying several layers of varnish, having previously cleaned the board.
  • Laying tiles on the OSB board. to install ceramic tiles, the OSB base must be fixed. To do this, you need to carefully fix the plates on the logs, and install the logs themselves more often.

OSB board prices

Price OSB slabs depend on several factors. First of all, this is the country of origin.

Plates made in America and Western Europe, more expensive than their domestic counterparts. Also, the price is influenced by the brand of the slab, the thickness of the slab and, in general, its main characteristics.

In the table you can see the dependence of the price of the slab on the country of manufacture and the geometry of the product.

For a successful purchase OSB boards you must carefully study the characteristics of each of them and choose the material, first of all, on the basis of this.

As a rule, OBS-3 boards, due to their characteristics, are the most popular on the market. Although, maybe simpler models will be enough for you.

You don't have to shell out extra money for material properties that you won't need at all afterwards. Do not rush - be prepared that it will take some time to find the best option.

In the world of modern kitchen interiors, there is a strong trend towards space saving. Preference is increasingly given to built-in appliances, although traditional, free-standing devices are also in no hurry to fade into the past.

Faced with the choice of an electric stove, buyers are forced to carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option - a culinary unit costs a lot of money and, presumably, will take its place for many years. So what type of stove really deserves to live in your home?

Advantages and disadvantages of a separate plate

Free-standing hobs are as easy to use as possible and are more familiar to the current layman. If the need for repair or a change in the situation matures, the device can be easily rearranged from place to place. Enameled electric stoves are famous for their good impact resistance and relatively low cost, however, it is rather inconvenient to wash the protruding burners. Glass-ceramic models are somewhat more expensive, but they look solid and stylish. In terms of practicality, there are no particular complaints - the coating is highly durable, and since it is absolutely smooth, it is not difficult to keep the panel tidy.

The advantage in matters of cleanliness here, however, is very conditional. In the course of everyday use, any single stove “sins” by the accumulation of debris and dirt not so much on the working surface as around itself: over time, spilled crumbs, together with settling fat particles, create a very unaesthetic frame.

Here's what you get if you summarize all the shortcomings of free-standing slabs:

  • The kitchen interior does not look very harmonious - many appliances do not want to fit into a single design concept;
  • housewives often complain about the too low location of the oven, to which every now and then you have to bend down;
  • debris regularly accumulates behind and on the sides of the stove.

Be that as it may, traditional electric cookers are not at all devoid of strengths :

  • They are easy to install and move from place to place;
  • most full-size units have an affordable cost;
  • for the installation of individual plates, you do not need to order a kitchen set according to an individual plan (and this is not only additional troubles, but also significant expenses);
  • classic appliances are easier and cheaper to repair.

H2> Advantages and disadvantages of a built-in hob

The built-in models combine ergonomic design with exemplary quality of service - at least that's how manufacturers position them. In terms of their ultra-modern look, these slabs really surpass ordinary ones, but the most important trump card of "built-in", undoubtedly, is compactness. New-fashioned units are designed in such a way that the oven is insulated, and hob could fit into a worktop. Many customers find the “stand alone” oven very convenient - it can be set at a convenient level so that you don't have to bend over to the door every time.

The dimensions of the built-in slabs, as it were, are standard (60 cm in width, 50-55 in depth and 55-60 in height): manufacturers make sure that the equipment fits any kitchen set... Unlike them, separately standing models demonstrate a wide variation in size, so that if the selection is unsuccessful, they can greatly clutter up the kitchen space.

So, to summarize the advantages of embedded models:

  • Create a single working space, without cracks and gaps, where all kinds of dirt constantly gets stuck;
  • “Unload” the kitchen, which is especially important for owners of small-sized housing;
  • separate elements - hob and independent oven - can be fixed at any height;
  • easy to care for: Smooth surface free of convex cooking zones, cleaning is easy and effortless.

Now let's analyze the cons:

  • Built-in slabs, as a rule, are installed "for centuries": moving such equipment is quite problematic;
  • the position of the device must be thought out in detail: it must be coordinated in advance with the position of the hood;
  • if the hob breaks down, the new panel will have to be selected with great care so that the size completely coincides with the previous format;
  • buying and connecting "built-in" is very expensive - an ordinary electric stove is much cheaper.

Let's summarize

The principle of placing the stove in no way affects the quality of its operation, therefore, both conventional and built-in models have an equal right to be approved.

Buying a "built-in" will be especially beneficial for those whose kitchen cannot boast of a large area, but in this case, you will have to be prepared not only for big expenses, but also for additional troubles: a scrupulous layout of the headset, professional installation, and in the case of a move, even very tedious dismantling.

On the other hand, the situation is not at all as sad as it might seem - financial investments will pay off with the ease of use, as well as the stylish and compact design of the electric assistant. The solid worktop will prevent dirt and debris from accumulating, and when correct location oven hostess will never again have to "bow" to the low door.

No one will argue with the fact that the stove in the kitchen is the main assistant of the hostess. If you want to eat scrambled eggs in the morning, soup for lunch or aromatic cutlets for dinner, then you cannot do without this technique. Nowadays, the varieties are limited to a large number, but today we will try to make out in more detail the seven main types of what kind of stoves are on the market kitchen appliances... It should be said right away that there are two types at the head, into which absolutely all tiles are divided: gas and electric. It is with an acquaintance with gas that we will begin.

Gas stoves

The most familiar for the vast majority of our compatriots is a gas stove for the kitchen. The principle of operation of this type of stove is clear to everyone: gas is supplied directly to each burner and must be ignited with a charge of an electric lighter or a match by hand. V modern tiles on the gas, you can see the electric ignition, which makes it easier to ignite the fire. Also, many all types of gas stoves for the kitchen are equipped with a gas leakage system, but you still need to be careful.

Security measures

Although in the newer models you can find special detectors for extinguished fires for each burner, as well as a thermoelectric gas control system, be careful with the gas supply. Never leave the cooker turned on for a long time without attention, do not open windows when the fire is on, and try to light the fire as soon as possible when turning on the gas supply to the burner, and in case of unpleasant circumstances ventilate the kitchen.

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Care

The bottom of the gas stove is always very hot, so it is better to upholster the plastic legs of the stove, if any, with heat-resistant rubber in advance. In addition, the hob can be made of different materials, each of which needs its own care. The most inexpensive is enameled metal, which is afraid of strong blows due to the possibility of chipping. In addition, he loves to collect fat on himself, although it is easy to clean.

Stainless steel is much more practical and reliable than other materials, moreover, it creates some charm for the appearance of the kitchen. The same can be said about the aluminum alloy, which, however, is less easy to clean. Glass ceramics and heat-resistant glass stand apart here, which, although they are not afraid of fire, are very dangerous in operation due to the fact that they can be broken. But they are very beautiful.

Types of gas stoves by location

Having dealt with gas stoves in general, it is worth considering separately the types of gas-fed stoves, which are divided by their location in the kitchen interior into three different types:

Built-in

As you might guess from the name, this view is built directly into the headset, adjacent to the countertop. These hobs always consist of the top and the oven bottom. Usually, both parts have one control system on a common panel, but other options are considered more convenient, because in such cases the oven can be built in another place of the headset.



Outdoor

These tiles are similar to the previous ones, but they are not tied to the kitchen unit. New modern models floor gas stoves are presented in the most different sizes and dimensions, allowing you to choose the model that fits perfectly. Their price depends on the number of burners, design, hob materials and, of course, a set of additional functions. Such a plate can stand anywhere.

Tabletop

Many, using this article, are trying to understand how to choose a stove, but sometimes options are also needed for giving. Perhaps it is this type of gas stove that is ideal for the countryside.

These stoves differ in that they can be installed on any surface convenient for you, do not have an oven and are very mobile in transportation.

Pros and cons

Before moving on to the next type stoves, it is worth looking at the advantages and disadvantages that each type of gas stove offers us. This will help you compare all the options and choose the right stove for the kitchen.

Separate version with corner tiles

  • The most affordable price for an average family.
  • It can be installed in any corner of the kitchen without ordering suitable furniture.
  • Installed between the pedestals will cause debris, grease and food pieces to collect in crevices.
  • It is unlikely to fit into the overall interior of the kitchen if it is designed in the same style and the work surface is heterogeneous.

Built into a headset

  • Saves space and creates a more comfortable and compact work surface for small kitchens.
  • Makes the interior more beautiful and holistic.
  • Kitchen maintenance becomes easier.
  • The price of built-in slabs is too high.
  • In addition to the tiles, you will have to buy the entire headset, which is extremely expensive.
  • Special workers will also have to pay a lot for mounting the headset and tiles separately, since it is extremely dangerous to do it yourself.

Desktop dacha

  • Frees up space for cabinets dishwasher or a separately purchased oven.
  • Can be placed on top anywhere on the countertop.
  • Can be easily transported to any location.
  • It is the cheapest due to the absence of an oven.
  • The lack of an oven can be problematic, because you have to buy it separately.
  • An improperly selected stove position can cause problems with dirt or material deterioration.

Electric cookers

Modern electric stoves for the kitchen are beloved by housewives due to their extreme ease of use and more safety than gas counterparts. Some houses do not have a gas pipeline, while for others it is an unbearable pleasure to rally gas in an apartment, and then you simply cannot do without an electric stove. Modern electric stoves act in different ways, and from this they are divided into different types.

Security measures

For electric stoves, it is imperative that powerful wiring runs throughout your home. By themselves, electric stoves are quite safe, and for greater safety they are equipped with various useful functions: electronic displays can show the temperature of a particular burner, operating time and heating mode, and the grill function allows you to cook in the infrared field, preserving useful substances during cooking.

Care

It is not so difficult to take care of such tiles, although the care depends on the type of electric stove. Basically, you just need to wait for the hotplates to cool down, then wipe the surface with a damp cloth without using any cleaning agents.

We help you choose an electric hotplate

Unlike gas stoves, the types of electric stoves depend on the type of burners. Some of them create a magnetic field, others have spiral heating tapes, and still others heat up and cool down extremely quickly. To choose the right electric stove for your home, you need to learn more about each.

Classic

The very first type of electric stove is well-known, working on spirals from heating belts. Those, in turn, work by analogy with electric heaters or curling irons, heating up from electricity. Usually, such stoves cook food even longer than gas stoves, because heating the burners is an extremely slow process. The hob can be made of different materials, the most popular is stainless steel.

Induction

The most popular cooking stoves in Europe. They operate on a high-frequency magnetic field, creating currents that heat the dishes. The advantage of this method is that the energy flows only work in the place where the dishes are located, which means that the heat will not evaporate. This leads to the fact that induction models heat up and cool down many times faster than others.

Halogen

And yet, the fastest type of burner in terms of cooking is halogen. Because electricity causes the halogen vapors in the heating tapes to emit infrared waves, the hotplate heats up instantly and cools down just as quickly. Modern electric halogen ovens for the kitchen save not only cooking time, but also energy.

Glass ceramics

Probably the most popular among electric stoves are glass-ceramic electric stoves for the kitchen, the characteristics of which ideally combine the advantages of other types. They are almost always performed with built-in touch controls, and the strength of the ceranium material has been proven by many experiments with pots dropping. They work with the help of heating elements, the heat of which is enhanced by the glass-ceramic surface itself. At the same time, the properties of the material make it possible to heat only the place in which the dishes are located.

Pros Cons

Having considered what kind of electric cookers there are for the kitchen, we can compare each type, considering their advantages and disadvantages. This will help you better understand which of the electric stoves will ideally fit into the interior of your kitchen and your family's life. It should be said right away that a common advantage all electric stoves, except for the classic ones, have a flat work surface that allows you to put any utensils on the burners.

Halogen

  • Begins to cook food instantly.
  • Cools instantly.
  • Allows you to adjust the temperature.
  • It is extremely expensive.
  • There is a risk of surface damage.
  • Heating elements should be replaced every 7-8 years.

Classic

  • Safer than all other analogues.
  • Does not form soot and carbon deposits.
  • Works with any utensil.
  • Cheaper than other electric stoves.
  • Needs powerful wiring.
  • Cooking food for a long time.

Induction

  • Durable and long-lasting.
  • Saves energy.
  • Saves cooking time.
  • Safe from the point of view of operation and from the point of view of accidental contact with the hob.
  • Does not require specialized maintenance, does not collect dust and food pieces.
  • Only non-porcelain, brass, glass, copper or ceramic dishes can be used in cooking.
  • Cannot be installed next to refrigerators.

Glass ceramics

  • Uniform heat supply.
  • Energy saving.
  • Heats up quickly and cools down quickly.
  • In some models, there is a function that changes the shape and size of the hotplates of the electric stove.
  • You can only use pans with a flat bottom with a dark or matte finish without any damage.
  • There are no sides as such, so the floor may become dirty.
  • A pinpoint strike with a fork or the like will most likely cause a crack, causing the hob to fail.
  • Needs special care.

The best gas

Now, having looked at all types of stoves - kitchen assistants to the hostess, you can decide for yourself which of the tiles suits you best. Well, we will try to help by telling you about the best representatives of one type or another in different price segments. We'll start with gas stoves.

Inexpensive options

GEFEST 3200-08 is a floor slab featuring a durable enamel finish. The oven temperature is set manually, which is very convenient for the hostess. There is also a small hotplate on the grill that allows you to put a small mug on top of you.

GEFEST 3100-08 K19 - a model from the same series, distinguished by delicious chocolate design... This budget model will fit perfectly Beautiful design modern apartment. The gas oven, as in the previous version, allows you to independently set the temperature.

De Luxe 5040.38g is a four-burner floor model with a large gas oven. When it comes to price-to-quality comparisons, this model is second to none.

Choice of the wealthy class

Hansa FCMW58221 - fullsize floor tiles with a 65 liter oven is easy to operate. The enamel coating makes it easy to clean the stove from dirt from the outside, while the inner surface of the door has tips for cooking. The set includes two baking trays and a wire rack.

Gorenje K 55203 AW is a model with an electric oven, which has a depth of 50 cm. The outer surface is covered with a special enamel against dirt, and for greater convenience, the stove is cleaned with AquaClean steam.

GEFEST 5102-03 0023 - another one combined model with an electric oven. Differs in a lower price, unlike previous options, but with the same excellent filling. in all, the reliability and strength of the assembly appears.

Middle segment

GEFEST 3500 is one of the best gas-fired glass ceramic cookers. Its main functions are complemented by a sound timer, specially made of tempered glass so that no burning spots form on it.

GEFEST 6100-02 0009 - in terms of price-quality ratio, this board has no equal in its segment. The stove has a very spacious oven with a drawer, and the work surface is so large that it will not create any restrictions on use. Among other things, the oven has an electric ignition.

Gorenje GI 52339 RW - an extremely spacious oven complemented by glass baking trays and a grill included. In addition to the sound timer, this gas stove also has a built-in clock. The model is interesting for its electronic control.

Best electrical

Having dealt with gas stoves move on to electric models... What is the best electric stove for the kitchen? Choose from the most worthy options for each price segment.

Low price

Lysva EP-411 WH is a very simple but easy-to-use electric stove with a decent design. The classic electric stove with cast iron burners costs less than its counterparts, because it requires care after every cooking. Otherwise, it is durable and reliable, and its operation is very intuitive.

DARINA S EM341 404 W - not too large, but inexpensive electric stove, which has a rather pleasant appearance... Operation is convenient because special indicators will tell you which burner is on. Has an electricity saving mode and high performance indicators.

Flama AE1406-W - very a budget option electric stove with a quick heat-up burner. The same function is present in the oven. Enamel work zone It does its job well, but the design is very good by the standards of such a cost. In addition, the set includes an oven light and a lid.

average cost

Hansa FCEW53001 is a very reliable classic electric stove, distinguished by its durability and small dimensions. A very modern appearance is achieved, among other things, due to the high-quality enameled surface, which does not cause significant problems with maintenance.

DARINA B EC331 606 W - with a residual heat panel, very fast heating of the burners and an oven with two layers of heat-resistant glass and holders. In addition, it is different interesting design and good build. Also, a drawer for dishes is built into the tile, which cannot but please the hostess.

AEG 47036IU-MN - you need it if you want a timer, quick heating of the burners, a really large 74-liter oven equipped with lighting and convection, a residual heat display function, as well as automatic detection of unsuitable dishes for not very big money for this. The best electric stove in its segment, it works silently, has a childproof mode and simply does its job well.

Expensive design

Hansa FCIW53800 is an induction electric cooker that fully justifies its cost. Decent energy efficiency is combined with comfortable equipment. A voluminous oven with a grill function and convection, residual heat indication and automatic switching off and on of the burners after removing and installing the dishes - what else can you dream of?

Hotpoint-Ariston H5VMC6A (X) - glass ceramic, sophisticated design and a large number of useful functions. This hotplate has a timer automatic switching on and shutdown, ten oven functions, grill mode and bright oven lighting. Interestingly, the oven comes with catalytic cleaning, several baking sheets and the main highlight - a set of skewers. The best decoration for your kitchen interior.

Bosch HCE644653 - completes our review of electric ovens for the kitchen with another high-quality stove that has collected all modern technical developments household appliances... In addition to the functions already known to us, such as a timer, a heat indicator, the ability to change the shape of the burners and a special protective enamel, this electric stove boasts a voluminous oven, almost lightning-fast heating of the burners and a really stylish appearance.

Video on the choice of gas stoves

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According to the sources of heating (burners) of cooking tables, electric stoves are rapid (High-Light, fast heating burners), halogen and induction. Yes, there are also cast iron "pancake" burners and glass-ceramic burners with metal spirals as heating elements, let's call them "traditional", although it is this tradition that spoiled the impression of electric stoves for many people: slow heating and unhurried cooling contribute to this.

According to the coating, electric stoves can be divided into glass-ceramic and steel enameled (enamel, as a rule, comes with "pancakes"); for control - on electronic, sensor, electro-mechanical.

Electric stove

Electric cookers with traditional burners

Metal spiral under cast iron pancake or under glass ceramics - the most outdated solution: the efficiency is low (most of the energy is spent on heating anything, but not "pancakes"), heating and cooling are slow, however, you can use the residual heat in order to save energy. If you really choose between "pancakes" or glass ceramics, then the latter heats up more evenly, cools down faster and makes it possible to make burners with two circuits for dishes of different diameters and different shapes... But the "pancake" is easy to replace if it breaks. Low cost: 8-15 thousand rubles is also an argument in favor of traditional electric stoves, but we must not forget that simplicity will most likely affect the oven as well: there will be fewer opportunities.

Traditional pancake burners

Freestanding induction cookers

Such plates are produced by only a few manufacturers: AEG, Smeg, Electrolux, Hansa, Gorenje, Beko. The minimum cost of such a stove is about 40 thousand rubles. The average price is 45-50 rubles, but you need to understand that induction cookers are economical: power induction hobs no less than usual, but the emitter heats the bottom of the dishes, and not the hotplate, the heat is spent strictly purposefully with the highest efficiency, in addition, heating occurs very quickly.

V induction cookers ah, many useful functions can be implemented: timer, auto shut-off when boiling, "booster" function - a temporary transfer of power from one burner to another, protection from children. However, in built-in hobs, as a rule, there are more opportunities for "playing" with the shapes of the burners, there is a "tracking dishes" function (when pots and pans can be rearranged over the entire surface without switching the burners - they do it themselves). The control of induction free-standing cookers is usually electronic, with a display that shows the selected power levels and all modes, but there are also analog switches - so that the user is familiar and convenient.

Induction cooker

A significant plus of induction cookers is safety. If there is no cookware on the hotplate or it does not match the diameter of the hotplate, it will not turn on. They removed the dishes from the fire - there is no energy consumption and heating, and you cannot get burned: the surfaces next to the burners remain cold, and they themselves heat up from the dishes, but cool down slightly and instantly. In this regard, the maintenance of induction surfaces is not burdensome: after all, nothing burns to them, you just need to wipe them with a cloth.

The advantage of induction over other types of hotplates of electric stoves is the largest power range and the most accurate power setting on the hob.

Does induction have at least one disadvantage? Yes, we found: dishes of very small diameter (a small Turk, a saucepan for boiling eggs with a diameter of less than 10 cm) cannot be used: the stove will not "see" it. Well, and the fact that “all dishes must be changed for induction” is, of course, a myth: most pots and pans are “compatible” with induction conformals. And if we compare induction in stoves with induction in hobs, then, as a rule, the latter have more technical "chips" and the possibility of varying the size of the burners and heating zones.

Ranges with rapid (Hi-Light) and halogen burners

It always glass ceramic plates, the same ones, the burners of which, when heated, turn red. Rapid burners with tape heating elements heat up quickly - in 5-6 seconds, and halogen burners - literally in 1-2 seconds. But have last term less service: the filaments in them tend to burn out, they do not last more than seven to eight years. Then - an expensive replacement. Therefore, now they are almost ousted from the market, but there are stoves where these types of burners are combined. Ranges with halogen burners are necessarily marked with the letter "H" in the model name. Both halogen and rapid burners can be multi-circuit with several heating zones (expanding).

Hi-Light and halogen burners (bottom left)

It is convenient and safe if such burners have an indication of residual heat: you will not burn yourself, and you can see that some burner can be used to heat up the food.

Cooking table coverings: enamel and glass ceramics

Glass-ceramic is stronger, evenly distributes heat, can be cleaned special means or ferry. Enamel is less whimsical in cleaning products, but less durable, scratches, looks attractive only when it is perfectly clean. Currently, enameled hobs are found only in electric cookers with pancake burners.

Glass ceramics

Ovens in electric stoves

A gentleman's set of a good electric oven

One way or another, borscht will be cooked on any burner, but baking meat with high quality, not overdrying fish and vegetables, making good baked goods is not possible in any oven. The more possibilities the oven has, the more expensive the stove is, of course, but there is a "gentleman's set" without which an electric oven cannot be considered good:

  • smooth with a small "step" temperature adjustment and a thermometer (it is good if low-temperature modes are provided: 35 ° С for fermentation, to make yoghurts and stand the dough, 50-80 ° for simmering)
  • the presence of both upper and lower heating elements or ring heating elements
  • convection provided by the fan. If there is convection in the oven, then regardless of the level at which the dish is cooked, it will bake evenly.

Of course, many stoves are still produced and sold without a fan, and, accordingly, without convection, such ovens are called static. But in terms of their working qualities, they lose.

Convection oven: there is a fan on the back

Additional features of ovens

It is important that the modes can be combined: bottom heating + convection + temperature selection, two heating levels + convection, upper heating element without confection, etc.

A very useful function is a timer: it provides both safety (the device will turn off on time or you will hear a beep), and the ability to follow the recipe exactly. In some stoves, ovens are able to defrost food, but when this function is activated, a lot of electricity is spent.

A grill (electric or halogen in electric stoves, infrared is a rarity, although it is more economical), a spit (usually together with a grill), a temperature probe and other "excesses" in multifunctional electric ovens are all that increase the cost, but also expands culinary possibilities.

Ergonomics of ovens

It is worth paying attention not only to shelves, grates and trays - this is important, but not critical: you can buy something if necessary. Look at something else: the presence of telescopic rails that ensure smooth opening and closing, as well as the door - convenient if the inner glass can be pulled out of the frame and washed. The door can open (most often) or slide out like a drawer, along with shelves and oven racks: this is convenient, but the heat loss during cooking is very large, so this method is rare.

Safety

If there are kids in the house, then it is optimal if the oven door is locked (locked), as well as the control panel. Some cookers have the function of cooling the case by blowing a fan. It is not very efficient, the fan drives warm air, but still the case and the door blow off a little faster. It is better when the door has two or three glasses, then all the heat is absorbed by the inner "layers", and the outer one heats up insignificantly.

Cleaning the inside of the oven

Traditional manual cleaning and steam cleaning (called hydrolysis) involves removing dirt with a cloth or sponge and detergent. Steam cleaning is not an automated process: just pour water into a container, turn on the oven and “steam” it for a while, and when the oven cools down, it will be easier to remove dirt.

There are technological methods of cleaning: pyrolysis and catalysis, they are also called self-cleaning systems. With the pyrolytic method, dirt is burned out at a very high temperature (about 500 degrees), the user only has to wipe the oven to remove the soot. The disadvantage is smells. True, to combat them in the oven, there is a filter designed for the entire service life of the equipment, and nevertheless, it is recommended to use a hood. Pyrolysis is also always a "quality mark": it means that the stove is designed for such temperatures, the most durable and high-quality steel is used, there are several levels of protection: thick glass in the door, door lock, etc.

In stoves with a catalytic self-cleaning oven, it is covered from the inside with a special enamel, which accelerates the oxidation of fats and their splitting into water and carbon. Catalytic cleaning does not require such hellish heating: only 200–250 ° С.

Pyrolysis is an expensive pleasure, the stove with such cleaning consumes a huge amount of electricity (up to 7 kW), but this the only way that does not require user effort. Catalytic cleaning is carried out in parallel with cooking, but does not eliminate the use of a rag and detergents fully.

Stoves with two or more ovens

There are not very many such models, they are more expensive, and the question arises: why? Well, for example, to cook at the same time very different dishes: bake a cake in one chamber and bake fish or lamb in another - it will turn out twice as fast. Such models consume more electricity if you use both ovens at the same time, and less if you use one, because the power of the heating element in a small "half" chamber is lower than required for a full-size one.

Someone and two ovens are not enough

Power and connection of the electric stove

The maximum power consumption of electric stoves can be high - 7-10 kW. But it's hard to imagine what you turn on full power and all the burners, and the oven - usually we still don't do that. Therefore, when calculating the power of the wiring, you need to make an allowance for this: if the "automatic" in the switchboard is designed for 8 kW and the same is the power of the stove, you do not need to be intimidated. The main rule: the stove should only be connected by a professional - an electrician from a management organization or from an electronics store (such a service is found in them). He must give you a certificate of completion.

Cover photo - Kristofer2

Each kitchen is equipped with a stove used for cooking. There are several varieties of such plates today. These are gas, electric stoves, and induction hobs... Each person makes their own opinion about the advantages and disadvantages of these stoves. We will take a look and analyze how an induction hob works, the pros and cons of such a device, and the features of its operation in a regular kitchen.

To understand the difference in the functioning of a conventional electric stove and an induction hob, let's make a small comparison between them.

Majority modern apartments today they are equipped with electric cookers with glass-ceramic surfaces. Bulky metal pancakes are already considered anachronisms, as they consume a lot of electricity, although such plates are also still quite common.

The principle of operation of such a device is based on the effect of an electric current on the heating elements with which the hob is equipped. The electric current heats up the heating element, the heat from which is transferred to the dishes standing on the stove. This is how food is cooked or warmed up.

Metal spirals made of special metal or halogen heaters are used as heating elements. The electric stove is controlled by mechanical or touch switches.

The principle of operation of the induction hob

Despite the fact that the built-in induction hob also belongs to the category of electric stoves, it works on a completely different principle. It does not have heating elements, and instead of them, built-in electromagnetic coils are used. The coil is fed from the mains alternating current, and it generates a magnetic field around itself.

Tip: Alternatively, you can use magnetic supports (adapters) for ordinary dishes.

Also, only cookware with a perfectly flat bottom is suitable for panels. Even a curvature of 1 mm will make cooking impossible.

Noise level

The electric cookers work silently. In contrast, induction hobs produce the noise of a fan cooling the hob.

Price

In terms of cost, induction hobs are superior to electric stoves. However, the high price of an induction hob, given their more economical operation, will eventually be justified and it is considered more profitable to buy them.