Hob Cracking? What to Do Right Away

If you notice a crack in your hob, don’t panic. A small fissure can be a safety issue, but most problems are fixable without tearing down the whole kitchen. Acting quickly helps stop the crack from spreading and keeps the surface safe for cooking. Below you’ll find the first things to check, easy DIY steps, and clear signs that you need a pro.

Identify the Cracks and Their Cause

The first step is to look closely at the damage. Is the crack straight across the glass, or is it spider‑webbed? Does it run through the cooking zone or sit on the edge? A crack caused by a heavy pot or sudden temperature change is usually shallow. A crack that follows a seam or appears after a power surge might mean the underlying heating element is stressed.

Turn the hob off and let it cool completely before you touch anything. Use a flashlight to see the depth. If the glass feels loose or you can see the metal underneath, stop using the hob immediately – that’s a sign of structural damage that needs a professional’s eye.

Take note of any other symptoms: uneven heating, strange noises, or flickering lights. Those clues help a technician decide whether only the surface needs swapping or if the whole unit must be inspected.

DIY Fixes vs Professional Help

For tiny hairline cracks that don’t affect the cooking zone, you can try a temporary seal. A clear, heat‑resistant silicone sealant works well. Clean the surface with a mild cleaner, apply a thin bead along the crack, and smooth it with a fingertip. Let it cure for at least 24 hours before turning the hob back on. This won’t make the hob as strong as new glass, but it stops dust and spills from getting inside.

If the crack is larger than a quarter‑inch or runs through a burner, DIY isn’t safe. Replacing the glass top requires special tools and the correct part number. Trying to pry it off can shatter the whole panel and cause injury.

When in doubt, call a local repair service. A qualified tech will remove the broken glass, check the heating elements, and install a factory‑fit replacement. Because the glass is designed to fit the exact model, using the right part keeps the hob’s warranty intact.

One more tip: keep a spare glass panel on hand if you have an older hob. Many manufacturers sell the top separately, and having it ready can cut downtime dramatically.

In short, assess the crack, stop using the hob if it feels loose, apply a silicone seal for tiny fissures, and call a pro for anything bigger. With these steps you’ll protect your kitchen and avoid costly damage.