Hob Not Working – Find Quick Fixes and Expert Tips

When dealing with hob not working, the cooking surface fails to heat or respond as expected. Also known as stove top failure, it usually signals a problem with the heating element, temperature sensor, or electrical connection. The issue often links to a broader electric oven, a kitchen appliance that uses electrical heating for baking and roasting or a commercial kitchen appliance, any heavy‑duty equipment used in food‑service settings. A faulty extractor fan, the ventilation unit that removes heat and steam from cooking areas can also affect hob performance by causing overheating warnings. Understanding these connections helps you pinpoint the root cause faster.

What Triggers a Hob to Stop Working?

Most hobs share three key components: a heating element, a control board, and a thermostatic sensor. If the element burns out, the hob won’t get hot – that's the classic hob not working symptom. A damaged control board can misread temperature settings, leading to non‑responsive burners. Sensors that detect over‑heat may cut power to protect the unit, especially if an extractor fan isn’t clearing heat efficiently. In commercial kitchens, power surges from large refrigeration units can also trip the circuit, leaving the hob dead. Regular maintenance of the refrigeration unit, the fridge or freezer that stores perishable stock reduces the chance of voltage drops that affect the hob.

Diagnosing the problem starts with a visual check: look for broken wiring, scorch marks on the element, or loose connections on the control board. If the hob’s indicator lights stay off, use a multimeter to test voltage at the plug and at the element terminals. When the element measures zero resistance, it’s likely fried and needs replacement. If the element checks out, the next step is the control board – a quick swap with a known‑good board can confirm whether the electronics are at fault. Finally, ensure the extractor fan runs at full speed; a sluggish fan often signals a blocked vent or a failing motor, which can cause the hob’s safety shut‑off to engage.

By treating the hob as part of a network of kitchen equipment, you avoid isolated guesswork. Fixing a broken heating element, resetting a tripped circuit from a refrigeration unit, or cleaning an extractor fan can restore full functionality without a full appliance overhaul. Below you’ll find articles that dive deeper into each of these areas, from oven heating element troubleshooting to extractor fan maintenance. Use them as a step‑by‑step guide to get your hob back in action and keep your commercial kitchen running smoothly.