If the surface of your electric hob looks blackened or smells burnt, you’ve probably had a nasty power surge, a faulty element, or a spill that melted the coating. It can be scary, but most problems are fixable without tearing the whole kitchen apart. Below we’ll walk through the common reasons, what you can try at home, and when it’s smarter to let a pro handle it.
First, figure out what caused the scorch. A blown fuse or tripped breaker can send a short burst of electricity through the heating element, turning the metal black. Over‑cooking a pan can also overheat the element and leave a dark mark. Leaking oil or sauce can seep into the gaps and, when the hob heats up, it chars the surrounding area. Finally, a cracked ceramic top can let the element directly touch the glass, causing a burn spot.
Before you call anyone, turn off the power at the consumer unit and unplug the hob if possible. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away any grease or food residue – never use abrasive cleaners, they can scratch the surface further.
Next, inspect the visible heating elements. If one looks visibly broken or the black marks are limited to a single zone, you might be able to replace just that element. Most electric hobs have replace‑able elements that snap into place. You’ll need a screwdriver, the correct replacement part (check the model number), and a little patience. Disconnect the wiring, remove the old element, plug in the new one, and tighten everything back.
If the whole surface is dark or the glass itself is cracked, the repair is more complex. You’ll need to order a new glass top and possibly a new control board. This isn’t a job for most DIYers because it involves handling heavy glass and precise alignment. In that case, skip the self‑repair and move on to the next section.
After any DIY work, restore power and test each zone with a kettle or small pot of water. If the hob heats evenly and there’s no lingering smell, you’ve saved money and time. If it still shows signs of burning, flickers, or the breaker trips, stop immediately – there’s an electrical fault that needs a qualified technician.
When to call a professional? If you notice any of these red flags: cracked glass, repeated breaker trips, strange buzzing noises, or if you’re uncomfortable working with electricity. A certified appliance repair service in South Shields can safely replace the whole glass top, check the internal wiring, and make sure the hob meets safety standards. They’ll also give you a clear cost estimate – typically £80‑£150 for a simple element swap and £250‑£400 for a full glass replacement.
Bottom line: a burnt electric hob isn’t always a death sentence. Simple cleaning and element swaps are doable for most homeowners. But once the damage spreads to the glass or the wiring, call a trusted local repair team. Quick action prevents bigger problems, saves money, and gets your kitchen back in shape faster.
A burnt electric hob can mess up your kitchen routine fast. This guide breaks down why hobs burn, how to clean up scorched spots, and what to do if it stops heating. Learn simple fixes, when it's worth repairing versus replacing, and tips to prevent future mishaps. Get back to smooth cooking without expensive repairs or long waits. Anyone stuck with a burnt electric hob will find answers here.