Hob Troubleshooting: Fast Fixes for Electric and Gas Stoves

If your hob won’t heat, clicks oddly, or just feels lazy, you’re not alone. Most issues are simple enough to sort out with a few tools and a bit of patience. Below you’ll find the most common culprits and step‑by‑step ways to get your hob back in action.

Electric Hob Problems and How to Solve Them

Electric hobs usually fail because of a broken heating element, a tripped safety switch, or a loose connection. First, turn off the power at the breaker – safety first. Then, check the visible element for cracks or discoloration. If it looks damaged, replace it; they’re cheap and fit most models.

Next, locate the thermal cut‑out switch (often a small black button under the hob). Press it firmly; if it was tripped, the hob should power up once you reset it. If the switch keeps tripping, the element is likely shorted and needs swapping.

Lastly, inspect the wiring behind the control board. Loose wires are a frequent cause of intermittent heating. Tighten any connectors you find, but don’t force anything – a gentle pull should be enough.

Gas Hob Issues and Quick Checks

Gas hobs can act up for a few easy reasons: clogged burners, a weak spark, or faulty gas supply. Start by cleaning the burner holes with a pin or a soft brush. Food debris often blocks the flow, making the flame flicker or disappear.

If the spark igniter isn’t lighting, give it a quick wipe with a dry cloth. Moisture or grime can stop the spark. For stubborn cases, check the spark electrode for cracks; a broken electrode needs replacing.

Finally, make sure the gas valve is fully open. Sometimes the knob looks turned, but it’s only half‑open. Turn it clockwise until it stops, then test the hob again.

When you’ve tried the above steps and the hob still won’t work, it’s time to call a professional. Most repairs under £100, especially for a single element or spark electrode, are well worth the money compared to buying a whole new hob.

Keeping a small toolbox with a screwdriver, multimeter, and a spare heating element or spark electrode can save you a call and a lot of hassle. A quick visual check each year also spots wear before it becomes a full‑blown failure.

Remember, safety always comes first. If you smell gas, turn off the supply immediately, ventilate the area, and call a qualified technician. Never ignore a gas smell – it’s better to be safe than sorry.

With these practical tips, most hob headaches can be solved at home. You’ll get back to cooking faster and avoid unnecessary service fees. Got a different hob issue? Our blog has detailed guides on everything from broken oven elements to extractor fan fixes – just pick the tag that matches your problem.