Hob Reset: Quick Fixes for Your Electric Cooktop

Ever pressed a button on your electric hob and nothing happened? Most of the time it’s not a broken part – it’s a safety reset that’s tripped. Knowing how to reset the hob can save you a callout fee and get dinner back on the table faster.

Why Does Your Hob Need a Reset?

Electric hobs have built‑in protection that shuts off the heating elements when they overheat, detect a fault, or lose power briefly. The reset button lets the system cool down and start again safely. Common triggers include a spill that caused a short, a blown fuse, or a power surge.

Step‑by‑Step Reset Process

1. Turn off the power. Unplug the hob if you can reach the plug, or switch off the circuit breaker. This makes sure there’s no hidden voltage while you work.

2. Locate the reset button. It’s usually a small, recessed circular button near the control panel. Some models hide it behind a removable cover – check the manual if you’re unsure.

3. Press and hold. Using a pen tip or a small screwdriver, press the reset button for about 5 seconds. You should hear a click or see a tiny LED flash, indicating the circuit has rebooted.

4. Restore power. Plug the hob back in or flip the breaker back on. The indicator lights should come on, and the controls should respond.

5. Test each zone. Turn the knobs or touch controls to the lowest setting and see if the element heats. If it works, you’re done. If not, move to the next step.

6. Check for obvious issues. Look for burnt spots, moisture, or loose wires around the control panel. Wipe away any spills and let everything dry fully before trying another reset.

If the hob still won’t reset, the fault may be deeper – a damaged heating element, a faulty control board, or a persistent electrical problem. At that point, calling a qualified technician is the safest move.

**Safety tip:** Never try to open the internal wiring yourself unless you’re a certified electrician. Working with mains voltage can cause serious injury.

**When to call a pro:**

• Reset button stays stuck or doesn’t click.
• Multiple zones refuse to heat after a reset.
• You notice scorch marks, a burning smell, or sparks.
• The breaker trips repeatedly when you turn the hob on.

Keeping your hob clean and dry is the best prevention. Wipe up spills immediately, avoid using abrasive cleaners on the control panel, and never place heavy pots that could stress the glass surface.

In a nutshell, a hob reset is simple: power off, press the button, restore power, and test. If it works, great – you saved time and money. If not, it’s a sign the problem needs a professional’s eye. With these steps, you’ll feel more confident tackling minor hiccups and knowing when it’s time to hand it over to an expert.