Hob Troubleshooting: Simple Steps to Get Your Cooktop Working Again

Got a hob that’s acting up? Whether it’s a cracked glass surface, spots that won’t heat, or a whole‑board that’s dead, you don’t need to panic. Most problems are easy to spot and can often be fixed with a few tools you already have. In this guide we’ll walk through the most common issues, show you how to diagnose them, and tell you when it’s time to call a professional.

Spot the Symptom – What’s Wrong with Your Hob?

First thing’s first: identify what’s not working. Is the whole hob silent, or are only certain zones cold? Does the surface have visible cracks or chips? Do you hear a buzzing sound when you turn a zone on? Write down exactly what you see – that’ll save you time when you search for a fix.

Typical signs include:

• One or more heating zones stay cool.
• Flickering lights or error codes on the control panel.
• Cracks, chips or shattered glass on a ceramic top.
• Odd smells, like burnt plastic, when you try to cook.

Each clue points to a different cause, so keep them in mind as you move through the steps.

DIY Fixes – When You Can Repair It Yourself

1. Reset the hob. Some electric hobs have a built‑in reset button hidden behind the control panel. Turn the power off at the mains, wait a minute, then switch it back on. This can clear a minor electronic glitch.

2. Check the power supply. Make sure the plug is firmly seated and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If you have a separate fuse for the kitchen, give it a quick check.

3. Clean the surface. A build‑up of spilled food or grease can cause hot‑spot failures. Let the hob cool, then wipe it with a soft cloth and a non‑abrasive cleaner. Avoid steel wool – it can scratch the glass and create new hotspots.

4. Replace a broken glass panel. If you see a crack, you’ll need a replacement glass top. Measure the hob’s dimensions, order the correct part, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It usually involves unscrewing the old panel, disconnecting the heating elements, and fitting the new glass. If you’re not comfortable with wiring, stop here and call a pro.

5. Test individual heating elements. Use a multimeter to check continuity on the element’s terminals. No continuity means the element is dead and must be swapped out. This is a common fix for a single zone that won’t heat.

Remember safety first: always switch the hob off at the mains before opening any panels. If you ever feel unsure, it’s better to let a qualified technician handle the work.

These DIY steps cover about 70 % of everyday hob problems. By the time you’ve gone through them, you’ll either have a working cooktop or a clear idea of what needs professional attention.

If the issue persists – especially with persistent error codes, frequent trips of the breaker, or a completely dead unit – call a certified repair service. They have the tools to test internal circuitry and replace sealed components safely.

Fixing a hob doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a little observation, a few basic tools, and the right safety precautions, you can often solve the problem yourself and keep your kitchen running smoothly.