Electric Hob Repair: Quick Fixes & Reset Tips

If your electric hob suddenly stops heating, blinks, or shows an error code, you don’t have to panic. Most hiccups are caused by simple issues you can sort out in under 30 minutes. In this guide we’ll walk through the most common reasons a hob fails, show you how to reset it safely, and tell you when it’s time to call in a pro.

Common Reasons an Electric Hob Stops Working

First, figure out what’s actually wrong. Here are the usual suspects:

• Tripped safety switch – Many hobs have a built‑in safety that cuts power if it gets too hot.
• Loose connection – The plug, circuit breaker, or internal wiring can loosen over time.
• Faulty heating element – Burned‑out elements stop heating but might still let the control board think they’re fine.
• Control board glitches – A bad circuit board can make the display freeze or flash.
• Kids or pets – Spilled liquids or dropped utensils can short out a coil.

Check the basics first: make sure the hob is plugged in, the breaker isn’t tripped, and the safety switch is reset. If those are all good, move on to the reset steps.

How to Reset and Troubleshoot Your Hob

Follow these steps in order. You only need a screwdriver and maybe a multimeter if you have one.

1. Turn off the power. Switch off the dedicated circuit at your fuse box. This protects you and stops any stray electricity.
2. Reset the safety switch. Most hobs have a small “reset” button near the controls. Press it firmly – you should hear a click.
3. Check the cooktop surface. Wipe away any moisture or crumbs. Even a tiny spill can cause a short.
4. Test each zone. Turn the knob or touchpad for each heating zone one at a time. If one zone stays dark while others work, that zone’s element is likely dead.
5. Inspect the wiring. Remove the hob’s front panel (usually held by two screws). Look for loose wires or burnt spots. Tighten any loose terminal screws.
6. Measure resistance (optional). With a multimeter set to ohms, check the heating element. A healthy element reads between 20‑40 Ω. Anything “infinite” means it’s broken.
7. Re‑assemble and power up. Put the panel back, flip the breaker on, and try the hob again.

If the hob still won’t heat after these steps, the control board is probably the culprit. Swapping a board is not a DIY job for most homeowners – it’s best left to a qualified technician.

When you call a pro, give them the details: which zones are dead, any error codes you saw, and whether the safety switch has been reset. That saves time and cuts down on call‑out charges.

In most cases, a quick reset or a tightened wire gets your hob cooking again. Keep a spare fuse handy, and always turn off the power before poking around. With these tips you’ll avoid costly service fees and keep your kitchen running smoothly.