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Few things are more frustrating than preparing a meal, only to find your induction hob not turning on or failing to heat properly.
If you’re wondering “why is my induction hob not working?”, it’s worth noting that induction hob problems can stem from various causes, including power supply issues, safety locks, incompatible cookware or internal faults.
Understanding the root of the issue is key to finding a solution.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential induction hob troubleshooting steps to help diagnose the problem and determine whether a quick fix or professional induction hob repair is needed.
Check the Power Supply and Connections
If your induction hob won’t turn on, the first step in troubleshooting is to check whether it’s receiving power. If there’s no power to your induction hob, you should check the following things.
Start by ensuring the hob is properly plugged in and that the wall switch is turned on. Next, inspect the fuse box or consumer unit for a tripped fuse or circuit breaker.
A power supply issue can often be the culprit if there are no lights or display on the hob.
QUICK FIX: Reset the hob by turning it off at the mains for a few minutes before switching it back on. If the problem persists, there may be loose wiring or a more serious electrical fault requiring professional repair.
Is the Child Lock Activated?
If your induction hob buttons are not responding, the induction hob child lock may be enabled. Many hobs come with a hob safety lock feature to prevent accidental activation, especially in homes with children.
When this mode is on, the control panel becomes unresponsive, even if the hob has power.
QUICK FIX: To fix this, locate the “lock” or “key” button on the control panel and hold it for 3–5 seconds until the lock indicator disappears. If the hob won’t unlock, refer to your user manual for model-specific instructions.
Are You Using the Right Cookware?
If your induction hob is not heating, the issue may be cookware compatibility. Induction hobs only work with magnetic cookware, such as stainless steel pots or cast iron pans.
QUICK FIX 1: To check if your induction pan is not working due to incompatibility, place a magnet on the base. If it doesn’t stick, the pan won’t work on an induction hob.
QUICK FIX 2: Additionally, check that the pan is the right size and properly centred on the cooking zone. If the pan detection system doesn’t recognise it, the hob won’t activate.
Overheating and Auto Shut-Off Issues
If your induction hob keeps turning off, it may be due to overheating prevention features. Most induction hobs have built-in thermal sensors that automatically shut them off if they get too hot.
One common cause of induction hob overheating is blocked air vents, which restrict airflow and cause the unit to overheat.
QUICK FIX: To fix this, check that the cooling fan and vents are clear of obstructions. Allow the hob to cool down for a few minutes before restarting it. If the problem persists, there may be a safety shut-off malfunction requiring further inspection.
Error Codes and Flashing Lights
If your induction hob is beeping or displaying error codes, it’s signaling a problem that needs attention. Most hobs use flashing lights and error messages to indicate specific issues. Common induction hob error codes include:
- E0: No pan detected (check cookware compatibility).
- E2: Overheating (let the hob cool down).
- E3: Power supply issue (inspect fuse box and circuit breaker).
QUICK FIX: If your induction hob won’t start and keeps beeping, the cause could be incorrect cookware, overheating or locked controls. Refer to your user manual for model-specific troubleshooting induction hob solutions.
Internal Issues: When to Call a Professional
If your induction hob is not working on one side or none of the previous fixes have solved the problem, there may be an internal fault. Common issues include circuit board failure, a broken induction coil or loose wiring.
If your hob trips the power repeatedly, this could indicate a serious electrical fault requiring the help of a professional electrician.
Safety tip: For safe and reliable induction hob repair, it’s best to contact a service engineer, especially if your appliance is still under warranty. You can find expert appliance repair services at Domex.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Knowing how to maintain an induction hob can help prevent issues and extend its lifespan. Regular induction hob care includes cleaning the control panel and vents to avoid sensor malfunctions.
Always use proper cookware and avoid heating empty pans, as this can cause overheating and damage internal components.
To keep your induction hob working efficiently, check power connections annually to ensure they are secure. By following these simple steps, you can prolong your hob’s lifespan and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why won’t my induction hob turn on?
If your induction hob is not turning on, there could be several reasons. Check for power supply issues, such as a tripped circuit breaker or faulty wiring. Ensure the child lock isn’t activated, as this can prevent the hob from responding. If none of these apply, an internal component failure may require professional repair.
Why does my induction hob keep shutting off?
When an induction hob keeps turning off, it’s often due to overheating, blocked ventilation, or an auto shut-off safety feature. Make sure the cooling vents are clear and allow the hob to cool down before restarting it.
Why is my induction hob clicking but not heating?
If your induction hob is clicking but not heating, the most common cause is incompatible cookware. Induction hobs require magnetic cookware to function properly. Another possibility is a power supply fluctuation, which may temporarily disrupt heating.
How do I reset my induction hob?
To reset an induction hob, turn it off at the mains for a few minutes, then switch it back on. This can resolve minor system glitches and restore normal operation.