pliidid

Pliidid are domestic cooking appliances used for heating and preparing food. In Estonian, the term refers to stoves or cookers, and in practice it covers both freestanding units that combine a cooktop and an oven and built‑in appliances designed to be integrated into kitchen cabinetry. A typical pliit includes a cooking surface (hob) and one or more oven compartments, sometimes with additional warming drawers or grills.

There are several common configurations. Gas pliidid use burners that provide immediate heat and fast temperature control but require a gas supply and adequate ventilation. Electric pliidid use radiant coils or smooth ceramic or glass-ceramic tops; they are easy to clean and work well with wide cookware sets. Induction pliidid heat cookware through electromagnetic fields and are typically the most energy‑efficient option, requiring compatible pots and pans. Dual‑fuel models pair a gas hob with an electric oven, combining fast, responsive cooking with precise baking. In some contexts, traditional wood‑ or coal‑fired stoves persist for heating or rural use, though they are less common in modern homes.

Materials and design vary, with hob surfaces in glass‑ceramic or metal and oven cavities lined with enamel or heat‑resistant coatings. Standard widths for built‑in models are commonly 60 cm, with larger 90 cm options for professional or family kitchens. Safety and efficiency features include flame‑failure devices for gas models, automatic shut‑off, child locks, and temperature sensors. Proper installation, ventilation, and regular maintenance are important for safe operation and longevity.