If your electric hob isn’t heating, flickering, or making weird noises, you’re not alone. Many homeowners face the same headaches, and most of them can be sorted out without a full‑blown service call. In this guide we’ll walk through the typical faults, easy checks you can do yourself, and the signs that it’s time to ring in a professional.
The most common reason an electric hob stops heating is a faulty element. Over time the heating coil can develop cracks or burn out, especially if you use the highest setting a lot. When that happens the element will either stay cold or only get warm on one side.
Another frequent culprit is a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. Hobs draw a lot of power, so a sudden surge can trip the breaker in your consumer unit. Check the breaker panel first – if the switch for the kitchen is off, flip it back on and see if the hob works.
Loose or damaged wiring is also a possibility. The connection between the hob and the supply can loosen if the plug isn’t secured or if the cable gets tugged during cleaning. A quick visual inspection (with the power off) can reveal frayed wires or a plug that isn’t fully inserted.
Finally, built‑in safety features can shut the hob down. Many modern hobs have over‑heat protection that switches off the element if it gets too hot. If you’ve been cooking on high heat for a long time, give the hob a few minutes to cool and try again.
Start with the simplest step: make sure the hob is properly plugged in and the socket works. Plug a lamp or a hair dryer into the same outlet – if they don’t work, the problem is the socket, not the hob.
Next, look at the control knobs or touch panels. Sometimes dirt or a cracked button can stop the hob from receiving a signal. Wipe the controls with a dry cloth and press each button firmly to see if the indicator lights up.
If your hob has removable elements, take them out (consult the user manual for safety). Look for visible cracks or burnt spots. A cracked element usually needs replacement; you can buy a compatible part online and swap it yourself if you feel comfortable with basic DIY.
When you’ve ruled out the obvious, reset the circuit breaker. Turn the breaker off, wait 30 seconds, then switch it back on. This can clear a minor overload that’s keeping the hob dead.
If none of these steps bring the hob back to life, it’s time to call a qualified electrician or a local appliance repair service. Trying to fix internal wiring or the control board without proper training can be dangerous and may void any warranty.
Remember, regular maintenance can prevent many of these issues. Keep the hob clean, avoid dropping heavy pots on the surface, and give the unit a cool‑down period after prolonged use. A quick wipe‑down after each cooking session and an occasional visual check of the elements go a long way toward extending the life of your electric hob.
When you do need a professional, choose a service that specialises in kitchen appliances and is familiar with the make and model of your hob. A skilled technician will diagnose the fault quickly, source the right part, and get your hob back in action without unnecessary delays.
In short, many electric hob problems are simple to spot and fix. A few quick checks can save you a call‑out fee, and keeping the hob tidy will help it stay reliable for years. If you’ve tried the basics and still have issues, don’t hesitate to get an expert involved – a safe, working hob is worth the investment.
Discover practical steps to take if your electric hob stalls during dinner preparation. This guide offers quick troubleshooting techniques to identify and fix common hob issues that might be affecting your cooking routine. From checking the power supply to basic repairs, it covers all aspects of ensuring your hob is up and running. Save yourself a call to a technician with these handy suggestions. Keep cooking with confidence as you mend your essential kitchen appliance.