Electric Hob Repair – Simple Fixes You Can Do Today

Got a stubborn electric hob that won’t heat, flickers, or shows strange error codes? You’re not alone. Most of us rely on our hobs for quick meals, so a hiccup feels like a kitchen emergency. The good news is that many issues are easy to diagnose and fix without calling a technician. In the next few minutes you’ll learn how to reset your hob, spot the most common faults, and decide if it’s worth a DIY repair or a professional call.

Common Issues and Quick Fixes

First, let’s talk about the problems you’re most likely to see.

  • No heat at all – Usually a tripped safety switch or a loose connection. Turn off the power at the breaker, wait a minute, then flip the switch back on. If the hob still stays cold, check the plug and cable for visible damage.
  • One or two burners not working – Heat‑induction and coil hobs each have a separate circuit. Swap the non‑working burner with a working one. If the problem follows the burner, the element is bad and needs replacement.
  • Flickering or uneven heating – This often means a faulty thermostat or a build‑up of grime on the surface. Clean the glass top with a non‑abrasive cleaner, then run the burner on high for a minute to see if the heat steadies.
  • Error codes (e.g., “E1”, “E2”) – Most modern hobs have a built‑in diagnostic. Look up the code in your user manual; many can be cleared by holding the reset button for 5 seconds.

Resetting your hob is a handy trick that solves a surprising number of glitches. Locate the reset button—usually a small recessed spot near the control panel. Press it with a pen tip, hold for a few seconds, and watch the lights blink off and on. After the reset, test each zone again.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried the above steps and the hob still misbehaves, it’s time to get an expert involved. Here are the red flags that mean a pro should step in:

  • Repeated tripping of the circuit breaker – indicates a serious electrical fault.
  • Burner sparks or smells of burning plastic – could be a loose wire or damaged component.
  • Water damage after a spill that wasn’t dried quickly – moisture can short internal circuits.
  • Any sign of cracked glass or damaged wiring – safety first; a broken hob can shatter.

Professional technicians have the tools to test live circuits, replace heating elements, and re‑wire connections safely. At Wells Appliance Repairs we can diagnose the issue in under an hour and give you a clear quote, so you won’t be surprised by hidden costs.

Before you book a visit, write down the symptoms, when they started, and any error codes you’ve seen. The more detail you give, the faster the tech can pinpoint the problem.

In summary, most electric hob hiccups can be resolved with a quick power reset, a clean surface, or a simple element swap. Keep an eye on safety signs, and don’t hesitate to call a pro if the hob still won’t cooperate. With the right approach, you’ll be back to sizzling stir‑fry in no time.

Aug 5, 2025

How to Replace an Electric Hob Element: Step-by-Step Guide and Tips

Wondering if you can replace an element on your electric hob? Learn exactly how to tackle the job yourself, when it's safe, and what tools you’ll need.

Read More