Hob Troubleshooting – Quick Fixes for Everyday Issues

If your electric hob is acting up, you’re not alone. Most people notice a problem the first time a burner won’t heat or a control button feels loose. The good news? Many of these glitches can be solved at home without tearing the whole unit apart. Below we walk through the most common symptoms, simple tests you can run, and clear signs that you need a professional.

Common Hob Problems and Quick Checks

1. Burner won’t heat. First, make sure the hob is plugged in and the circuit breaker isn’t tripped. Next, try a different burner zone; if the other zones work, the issue is likely isolated to the faulty zone. Check the burner coil or ceramic plate for cracks or burnt spots. A quick visual inspection often reveals a broken element that needs replacement.

2. Flickering or uneven heat. This usually points to a loose connection inside the control module. Turn the hob off, unplug it, and gently wiggle the control knobs. If the heat level jumps or the display flickers, the potentiometer may be worn out. Tightening the knob or cleaning any dust can sometimes stop the flicker.

3. Error codes on digital hobs. Modern hobs flash codes when they detect a fault. Note the code and look it up in the user manual – most manufacturers list what each code means. Often the fix is as simple as resetting the unit: turn off the power at the breaker for a minute and then turn it back on.

4. Buttons or touch panels don’t respond. Moisture is a common culprit. Wipe the surface with a dry cloth and let it air dry for a few minutes. If the panel is still dead, the underlying PCB may have suffered water damage, which means you’ll need a new board.

5. Odd smells or smoke. Stop cooking immediately, turn off the hob, and unplug it. A burning smell usually means a shorted heating element or a foreign object stuck under the surface. Let the hob cool, remove any debris, and if the smell persists, it’s time to get a pro involved.

When to Call a Professional

Even though many fixes are DIY‑friendly, certain situations are best left to trained technicians. If you’ve tried the steps above and the hob still misbehaves, or if you notice exposed wiring, cracked glass, or water inside the unit, call a service center right away. Trying to replace internal boards or high‑voltage parts without proper training can be dangerous.

Another red flag is recurring problems after a repair. Frequent breakdowns often mean the root cause wasn’t addressed – perhaps an issue with the power supply or a faulty thermostat that keeps failing.

Finally, if your hob is still under warranty, contacting the manufacturer’s authorized service partner ensures you don’t void the coverage. Most warranties cover parts and labor for a set period, so it’s worth checking the paperwork before you start any repairs.

Bottom line: start with the basics – power, visual checks, and reset procedures. Most minor hiccups are solved in under ten minutes. When in doubt, or when the fix involves internal circuitry, let a professional handle it. With the right approach, you’ll spend less time staring at a cold burner and more time cooking the meals you love.