Wondering if your hob can be fixed? Here’s a clear guide about repairing kitchen hobs, common faults, costs, DIY tips, and professional help. Learn what to do if your hob stops working.
Electric Hob Issues: What’s Going Wrong and How to Fix It
If your electric hob is acting up, you’re probably annoyed and wondering if you’ll need a costly replacement. The good news is many hiccups are easy to spot and fix yourself. In this guide we’ll walk through the symptoms you’ll notice, why they happen, and the steps to get your cooktop back in shape.
Typical Problems You’ll See
One zone won’t heat. This is the most common complaint. The heating element may be burnt out, the thermostat could be faulty, or the zone’s connection is loose. A quick visual check for cracks or discoloration often points you in the right direction.
All zones are hot, but the control panel is dead. Power may be reaching the hob, but the electronic board isn’t responding. Check your circuit breaker first – a tripped fuse is a simple fix.
Uneven heating. If food cooks faster on one side, the element under that zone is likely working while the opposite one struggles. Residue build‑up can also cause uneven heat, so a thorough clean might solve it.
Burnt smell or visible scorch marks. Over‑cooking or a spilled liquid can scorch the surface. If the smell persists after you clean it, the heating element might be damaged and need replacement.
Clicking or buzzing noises. Electrical arcing or a failing thermostat can produce these sounds. It’s a sign that something inside is trying to work but can’t, and you should stop using the hob until it’s checked.
DIY Fixes and When to Call a Professional
Start with the basics: turn off the power at the main switch, unplug the hob (if it has a plug), and let it cool down. Safety first.
Check the connections. Loose wires are a frequent cause of a dead zone. Remove the hob’s front panel, locate the wiring harness for the problem zone, and make sure each clip is snug. If a wire looks frayed, it’s best to call a certified technician.
Replace a faulty element. You can order the right part using the hob’s model number. Once you have the new element, remove the faulty one by unscrewing it, disconnecting the wiring, and swapping in the fresh piece. Re‑assemble and test – the zone should heat normally.
Clean the surface and contacts. Use a soft cloth with a mild cleaner to remove burnt residue. For stubborn spots, a mixture of baking soda and water works well. Avoid abrasive pads; they can scratch the glass and affect heat distribution.
Inspect the control board. If the panel is dead but the power is on, the board may need a reset or replacement. Resetting usually involves turning the breaker off for a minute and turning it back on. If that doesn’t help, a professional should handle the board, as it involves dealing with high voltage components.
When you notice any of the following, call a pro: persistent buzzing, repeated element failures, scorch marks that can’t be cleaned, or if you’re uncomfortable handling electrical parts. A qualified technician will test the hob safely, replace damaged components, and ensure your kitchen is back to normal.
Keeping your hob in good shape also means regular maintenance. Wipe spills immediately, avoid dragging heavy pots across the surface, and schedule a yearly check if you use the hob heavily. These habits reduce wear and catch problems before they become emergencies.
Bottom line: most electric hob issues are either a simple connection problem, a burnt element, or a dirty surface. With a little patience and the right tools you can solve many of them yourself, but never gamble with electricity. When in doubt, reach out to a reputable repair service in South Shields – they’ll get you cooking again without the hassle of a full replacement.