Burnt Electric Hob: Quick Fixes, Safety Checks, and Replacement Advice

If you notice black marks, a weird smell, or a burner that won’t heat, your electric hob might be burnt. A burnt hob can be alarming, but you don’t have to panic. In most cases you can diagnose the problem, decide if a simple repair will do, or know when it’s time to call a pro.

First, unplug the hob or switch off the circuit breaker. Working on a live appliance is dangerous and can cause electric shock. Once it’s safe, take a look at the burners. Burnt plates usually have dark spots or a melted surface. This is often caused by spilled food that burned onto the heating element.

How to Diagnose a Burnt Burner

1. Visual inspection – Check each burner for discoloration, cracks, or melted plastic. If the coil or ceramic surface looks damaged, that part probably needs replacing.

2. Touch test – When the hob is cool, gently feel the burner. A hot spot that stays warm after turning the hob off can indicate a faulty thermostat or a shorted element.

3. Listen for clicks – Turn the knob to the highest setting. A clicking sound that never stops usually means the igniter (for gas‑hobs) or the electronic control board is failing.

If the damage is limited to a single burner, you can often order a replacement part online. Most Indian and international brands sell individual burners for under ₹2,000. Replacing a burner is as easy as removing the old one, snapping the new piece in place, and securing the screws.

When to Repair and When to Replace

Repair makes sense if the damage is isolated to one or two burners, the control knobs still work, and the power cord is intact. The cost of a new burner plus a few hours of DIY labor usually stays below ₹3,000, which is far cheaper than a brand‑new hob.

Consider replacement if you see any of these signs:

• Multiple burners are burnt or cracked.
• The control panel is unresponsive or displays error codes.
• There’s a burning smell even after the hob is off.
• The cord or plug shows signs of wear.
• Your hob is more than 7‑8 years old and repair costs approach 50% of a new unit.

Replacing a whole hob can cost anywhere from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 depending on brand and features. If you’re budgeting, look for models with easy‑to‑clean surfaces and replaceable burners – they save money in the long run.

Regardless of repair or replacement, always clean the hob after each use. Wipe spills while the surface is still warm, but never let a pan sit for too long without stirring. This prevents food from carbonizing and turning your hob into a fire hazard.

Finally, schedule a professional inspection if you’re unsure about the electrical work. A licensed technician can test the wiring, check the circuit breaker, and ensure the hob meets safety standards. It’s a small investment that can save you from costly electrical fires.

In short, a burnt electric hob isn’t the end of the road. Spot the damage, decide whether a single burner swap will do, and keep safety at the top of your checklist. With the right care, your hob can stay reliable for many more meals.