How to Fix a Glass Hob Without Breaking the Bank

Got a glass hob that stopped heating or cracked last night? You’re not alone. Many homeowners face a dead zone, flickering lights, or a shattered surface. The good news? Most issues are fixable with a few tools and common sense.

First thing – safety. Unplug the unit or switch off the circuit breaker. A glass cooktop works with electricity, and a short circuit can shock you. Once it's completely off, you can start checking the problem without worry.

Identify the Symptom

Take a look at what’s actually wrong. Is the whole hob dead, just one burner, or do you see a crack? A dead entire unit often points to a power supply issue or a blown fuse. A single burner that won’t heat usually means a faulty heating element or a bad sensor.

For cracks, you’ll need to decide if it’s cosmetic or structural. Small hairline cracks can be sealed, but bigger cracks that affect the heating area usually need a replacement panel. Remember, glass hobs are tempered – they’re designed to break into tiny pieces, not large shards. If the glass is shattered, replace it.

Fixing a Non‑Heating Burner

Start by removing the burner cap and checking the connections. Loose wires are a common culprit. If you spot a burnt smell or blackened wire, that part likely needs swapping. Most manufacturers sell replacement heating elements; they’re pricey but cheaper than a whole new hob.

Next, test the temperature sensor. Using a multimeter set to resistance, place the probes on the sensor terminals. A functional sensor should show about 1 kΩ at room temperature and change as you heat it. If the reading is out of range, replace the sensor.

Sometimes the issue is the control board. If other burners work fine, the board may have a dead line for that zone. Look for visible signs of damage – burnt spots or bulging capacitors. If you’re comfortable, you can desolder the faulty component and solder a new one. Otherwise, call a technician.

Before you reassemble, clean the area. Use a soft cloth and a non‑abrasive cleaner made for glass hobs. Avoid harsh chemicals; they can damage the surface and affect heat distribution.

Dealing with Cracks and Chips

If the crack is small, you can use a special glass hob repair kit. These kits include a clear epoxy resin and a scraper. Clean the crack, apply the resin, and let it cure for the recommended time – usually a few hours. The result is a smooth, heat‑resistant seal that looks almost like the original.

For larger cracks, you’ll need to order a replacement glass panel. Most brands require the model number and the exact dimensions. When the new panel arrives, remove the old one by loosening the mounting screws (usually hidden under the control panel). Carefully lift the panel – glass is fragile, so wear gloves.

Install the new panel by aligning the mounting points and tightening the screws evenly. Re‑connect the wiring, double‑check all connections, and test each burner before fully snapping the hob back into place.

Finally, run a quick test. Turn on each burner for a minute to ensure heat is spreading correctly and there are no error codes flashing on the display. If everything works, you’ve saved yourself a costly service call.

If after these steps the hob still misbehaves, it’s time to call a professional. Some problems, like a failed main control board, require specialized tools and expertise. Trying to fix them yourself could void warranties or cause more damage.

Remember, regular maintenance helps prevent many of these issues. Keep the surface clean, avoid dragging heavy pots, and never use abrasive cleaners. A little care goes a long way in keeping your glass hob looking good and heating right.