If you enjoy eastern cuisine, you can buy a speciality hob with a wok burner. Similarly if you are a BBQ fan, choose a BBQ grill. If you are left handed, go for front rather than right hand side controls as this eliminates the risk of reaching across the heat. If you cook for a large family, more than four rings may be useful, and if you have young children it may be worth considering paying a little extra for a hob guard or in the case of gas, choosing an automatic re-ignition or cut off device should the flame blow out.

Modern appliances reach higher temperatures quicker - and often hold heat longer. To avoid worktop damage, follow both the appliance manufacturers instructions and these rules:

• Always use the correct size of pan for the burner, placed centrally. An overhanging pan can scorch surrounding surfaces. Don't use two burners as one (e.g. for a large griddle) - it has the same effect.
• To reduce heat, turn the burner down instead of pulling the utensil partially off the heat source.