Hob Not Working? Simple Checks Before You Call a Pro

If you’ve tried to turn on the burners and nothing happens, don’t panic. A non‑functioning hob is one of the most common kitchen annoyances, but most of the time you can pinpoint the issue in a few minutes with basic tools and safe procedures. Below we break down the typical culprits and give you a step‑by‑step guide you can follow right now.

Common Reasons a Hob Stops Working

First, understand the three main groups of problems: power, controls, and internal components. A tripped breaker or a blown fuse will cut power to the entire unit. A faulty switch or a damaged control board can stop one or more burners while the rest stay hot. And finally, the heating elements themselves can burn out, especially on older models that get a lot of use.

Another often‑overlooked issue is the safety‑cutout feature many hobs have. If the hob senses a leak, overheating, or a loose connection, it will shut down automatically. Resetting the safety‑cutout is usually as easy as turning the breaker off for a minute, then back on.

Step‑by‑Step DIY Checks

1. Check the circuit breaker. Open your consumer unit and look for a tripped switch in the kitchen row. Flip it fully off, wait a few seconds, then back on. If the breaker trips again, you likely have a short and need an electrician.

2. Test the power outlet. Plug a lamp or phone charger into the same socket. No power? Try another socket. If the outlet is dead, it’s an electrical issue, not the hob.

3. Reset the hob’s safety‑cutout. Some models have a dedicated reset button on the front or underneath. Press it firmly; you should hear a click. If the hob lights up, try a burner.

4. Inspect the burners. Remove each burner cap and clean any food debris or spilled liquids. Moisture can cause the sensor to think something’s wrong, cutting power to that zone.

5. Look for visible damage. Check the control knobs for cracks or loose connections. If a knob feels wobbly, it may not be sending the right signal to the heating element.

6. Test the heating element. If you’re comfortable with a multimeter, set it to resistance (ohms) and touch the probes to the element’s terminals. A functional element usually reads between 20‑40 Ω. Anything far outside that range means the element is dead and needs replacement.

If after these steps the hob still won’t heat, it’s time to call a professional. Bridgewater Appliance Fixers can diagnose hidden faults, replace faulty parts, and ensure everything is wired safely to UK standards. Trying to fix a faulty control board or a hidden wiring issue without the right knowledge can be dangerous.

Remember, safety comes first. Always turn off the main power before opening any part of the hob, and never attempt repairs on a gas hob unless you’re fully qualified. For electric hobs, a quick visual inspection and the checks above solve most problems, but don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re unsure.

When you call Bridgewater Appliance Fixers, let them know you’ve already checked the breaker, outlet, and burners. That helps the technician focus on the likely internal faults and can speed up the repair. With a fast turnaround and a friendly approach, they’ll have your hob cooking again in no time.