Hob Troubleshooting Guide – Quick Fixes & Repair Tips

Got a cooktop that’s acting up? You’re not alone. Hobs can develop a range of quirks—won’t heat, flickering burners, or weird noises. The good news is many of these problems are easy to spot and fix, saving you a call to the repair guy (and the bill that comes with it).

Identify the Symptom

First thing’s first: figure out exactly what’s going wrong. Does a burner stay cold while the others work? Is the whole hob switching off after a few minutes? Does it make a buzzing sound? Write down the symptom, when it started, and if anything changed in the kitchen (new pots, power cuts, etc.). This simple checklist helps you narrow down the cause and tells a technician exactly what to look for.

Common symptoms and their usual culprits:

• One burner won’t heat: Probably a faulty heating element or a loose connection.
• All burners flicker or turn off: Overheating safety switch may be tripping, or the power supply could be unstable.
• Strange noises: Loose wiring, a failing fan, or debris under the surface.

Basic DIY Checks

Before you pick up the phone, try these safe steps:

1. Turn off the power: Switch off the hob at the circuit breaker. Safety first.
2. Inspect the surface: Look for cracks, spills, or burnt marks that might be causing a short.
3. Check the connectors: If you’re comfortable, remove the burner plate and make sure the wires are snug. Loose connections are a frequent cause of intermittent heat.
4. Reset the safety switch: Some hobs have a reset button near the control panel. Press it after the hob cools down.
5. Test the outlet: Plug another appliance into the same socket. If it works, the issue is likely the hob, not the power source.

If after these steps the problem persists, it’s time to think about repair costs.

What Does Repair Cost?

In 2025, a typical electric hob repair in Brisbane (and similarly in Glastonbury) runs between £80 and £150, depending on the fault. Replacing a single heating element is usually the cheapest fix, while a full control board replacement can push the price toward the higher end.

Here’s a quick cost breakdown:

• Diagnostic call‑out: £40‑£60
• Heating element replacement: £70‑£100 (labour included)
• Control panel or safety switch: £120‑£150
• Full hob replacement (if repair isn’t worth it): £400‑£800

Getting a quote before work starts is worth the hassle. Many local repair services, like Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services, will give a free diagnosis and a clear estimate.

When to Call a Pro

Even if you love DIY, some issues are best left to the experts:

• Electrical faults that involve the main wiring or circuit board.
• Persistent safety‑switch trips after resetting.
• Damage from water or liquids inside the hob.
• Any sign of burnt components or smoke.

A qualified technician can test the internal electronics with proper tools, replace parts safely, and ensure the hob meets local safety standards.

Extend Your Hob’s Life

Prevention beats repair every time. Keep the hob clean—wipe spills before they harden, avoid dragging heavy pots across the surface, and use only compatible cookware. Run a quick self‑check every few months: turn each burner on for a minute and listen for any odd sounds.

Following these simple habits can add years to your cooktop and keep those repair bills low.

So next time your hob throws a tantrum, you now have a clear plan: identify the symptom, try safe DIY checks, know the typical repair costs, and call a pro when needed. With the right approach, you’ll be back to cooking without missing a beat.