Hob Repair Tips: Simple Fixes for Your Cooktop
Got a hob that’s acting up? You’re not alone – burners stop igniting, plates get uneven heat, and strange smells pop up all the time. The good news is most of these issues are easy to spot and fix without tearing the whole kitchen apart. Below you’ll find straight‑forward tips that let you troubleshoot, repair, and decide when it’s smarter to call a professional.
Common Hob Problems and How to Spot Them
First, narrow down the symptom. Is the flame not lighting at all? Does the electric coil flicker? Or are you noticing cracks in the glass top? Write down exactly what’s happening – this saves time later.
- Igniter won’t spark (gas hob): Check the safety key, then clean the igniter tip with a toothbrush. Food debris or grease often stops the spark.
- Uneven heating (electric hob): A faulty heating element or loose connection can cause hot spots. Feel the surface; if one zone stays cool, that element may need swapping.
- Cracked glass: Any crack, even a hairline, can let water seep into the wiring. Replace the glass panel – it’s cheaper than a whole new hob.
- Strange odour: A burnt smell usually means a stuck burner or a clogged gas nozzle. Turn off the hob, let it cool, then remove the burner and soak it in warm, soapy water.
Safety first: always switch off the power at the mains or turn the gas supply off before you start any work.
DIY Repairs You Can Do at Home
Now that you know the likely cause, here are the steps you can take yourself.
1. Clean the burners. Remove the burner caps and rub away any food residue. Use a pin to clear the tiny gas holes – a quick spray of compressed air can help too.
2. Test the igniter. With the hob off, use a multimeter set to continuity. Touch the probes to the igniter terminals; a beep means it’s good. No beep? Replace the igniter – they’re usually a few pounds and fit right in.
3. Swap a bad heating element. Unscrew the faulty element, note how the wiring connects, then attach the new one the same way. Tighten the screws and test the hob before re‑assembling.
4. Fix loose connections. Over time, the wiring behind the hob can loosen. Open the panel (usually a few screws), check each connector, and push any loose clips back into place.
5. Replace a cracked glass top. Order the exact model glass from the manufacturer. Remove the old panel, clean out any old sealant, lay the new glass, and apply a thin bead of high‑temperature silicone around the edges.
If any step feels beyond your comfort zone, especially when dealing with gas lines, stop and call a qualified technician. The cost of a small mistake can be far higher than a professional call‑out.
At Hinckley Home Appliance Repair Services, we’ve seen every hob issue imaginable. Our team can diagnose stubborn problems, source the right parts, and get your cooktop back in shape fast. Give us a ring if your hob still won’t behave after you’ve tried these tips – we’ll sort it out without the hassle.
18 April 2025
·
0 Comments
Wondering how much it costs to fix a glass hob? This article breaks down the real expenses, from parts and labor to unexpected fees and DIY mistakes. You’ll get straightforward numbers plus tips on saving money and prolonging your hob’s life. Learn the difference between replacing just the glass versus the whole unit. Discover when it’s smarter to repair and when to replace, all in simple language without jargon.
Read more
