Electric Hob – Repair, Maintenance & Lifespan Tips

If your electric hob has started acting up, you’re not alone. Most homeowners notice a glitch at some point – a burner that won’t heat, uneven cooking, or a flickering control panel. The good news is that many of these problems have simple fixes, and a few habits can add years to your hob’s life.

First, always turn off the power before you tinker with any part of the hob. Even if the breaker looks fine, a stray current can give you a nasty shock. A quick safety check saves you from injury and protects the appliance from further damage.

Common Problems and Quick Fixes

One of the most frequent complaints is a burner that stays cold. Usually the culprit is a faulty heating element or a loose connection. Unplug the hob, remove the burner, and give the element a visual inspection. Look for broken wires, scorch marks, or corrosion. If the element looks damaged, replace it – most manufacturers sell them for under £30 and the swap takes about ten minutes.

Another issue is uneven heating across the surface. This often means the temperature sensor is dirty or the control board has a glitch. Wipe the hob surface with a damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners; residue can insulate the sensor. If the problem persists, a reset of the main circuit breaker can sometimes clear a temporary board error.

Clicking or buzzing sounds usually point to a loose knob or a worn-out switch. Tighten any loose knobs and check the switches for wear. Replacing a faulty switch is cheap and straightforward – just match the part number from your user manual.

Extending the Life of Your Electric Hob

Regular cleaning is the single most effective way to keep your hob healthy. After each use, wipe away spills before they harden. A thin layer of cooking oil can turn into stubborn grime that eventually blocks heat transfer.

Never place heavy pots or pans directly on the glass surface; the weight can crack the glass over time. Use cookware that matches the burner size – oversized pans waste energy and put extra strain on the heating elements.

Pay attention to the power supply. A surge or frequent breaker trips can damage the internal electronics. If you live in an area with unstable voltage, consider a surge protector designed for kitchen appliances.

Finally, schedule a professional check‑up every few years. A qualified technician can test the internal circuitry, replace aging parts, and catch issues before they become costly repairs.

By following these simple steps – safe troubleshooting, regular cleaning, sensible cookware choices, and occasional professional maintenance – you can get many more years out of your electric hob. Keep it in good shape, and it will keep your meals cooking just right.