Last Updated on May 27, 2025 by Caesar
Have you ever placed a pan on your electric cooktop, turned the dial, and waited… only to find that nothing happens?
No heat. No sizzle. Just silence.
If that’s you, you’re not alone. Cooktops can stop working for all kinds of reasons—some simple, others not-so-obvious. But before you panic or toss out your appliance, let’s walk through the most common reasons electric cooktops fail to heat—and what you can do about it.
Whether you own an electric or gas cooktop, Oven Fixer offers trusted Cooktop Repair Services in Melbourne that are quick, affordable, and delivered by certified technicians.
Let’s dive in.
1. Is Your Cooktop Plugged In Properly?
Let’s start with the basics. It might sound silly, but is your cooktop actually plugged in?
Electric cooktops require a stable connection to your home’s power source. Sometimes a loose plug, a tripped circuit, or an overloaded socket can disrupt the flow of electricity.
What to check:
- Look at the wall outlet—is the plug secure?
- Check your home’s circuit breaker box. Is the switch for the kitchen tripped?
- Try plugging another appliance into the same outlet to confirm it’s working.
Still no power? Then the problem could be internal.
2. Burners Not Working? Test Each One
Most electric cooktops come with multiple burners. If one burner isn’t heating, but others are, it’s likely a localized issue. But if none of them are working, then it’s a bigger problem.
For a single non-heating burner:
It could be:
- A burnt-out heating element
- Loose internal wiring
- A faulty infinite switch (the part that controls power to each burner)
If you’re not sure how to test these, don’t risk it. Leave it to a professional cooktop repair service like Oven Fixer. They’ll diagnose and replace the part safely.
3. The Cooktop Surface Is Cracked or Damaged
Cracks or chips in the glass or ceramic surface may not just be cosmetic. They can signal underlying electrical problems—and in some cases, pose serious safety hazards.
Cracked surfaces can:
- Interrupt heat transfer
- Damage internal heating elements
- Create fire risks if moisture seeps into internal parts
What should you do?
Stop using it immediately and book a technician. Attempting to use a damaged cooktop can escalate the issue—and potentially cost you more in repairs.
4. Faulty Infinite Switch: The Hidden Culprit
Ever turned your cooktop knob only to find the burner stays cold? It might be the infinite switch.
This little component regulates how much electricity flows to each burner. If it malfunctions, it might cut off power entirely, even if everything else seems fine.
Symptoms of a faulty infinite switch:
- Burner doesn’t heat at all
- Burner only works at one temperature (e.g., always max heat or no heat)
- Clicking or buzzing sounds when you turn the knob
You’ll need a licensed technician to test and replace the switch—Oven Fixer can help with that.
5. A Blown Thermal Fuse
Did your cooktop suddenly stop working after a power surge or prolonged use?
It could be a blown thermal fuse—a safety device that cuts off power to prevent overheating. Once blown, the cooktop won’t power back on until the fuse is replaced.
Here’s the catch: accessing the fuse requires dismantling the cooktop, which isn’t DIY-friendly.
Need expert help? Book a gas or electric cooktop repair with Oven Fixer.
6. Loose or Damaged Wiring Inside
Over time, wires inside your cooktop may loosen, burn out, or get damaged. This can lead to:
- Inconsistent heating
- Burners that turn on and off randomly
- No heat at all
Exposed wires can also create short circuits—putting your home at risk of fire or electrocution.
If you’ve already checked the basics and suspect something internal, it’s best to call an expert. DIY electrical work can void your warranty—or worse, put your safety at risk.
7. Is It Actually the Cooktop… or Your Power Supply?
Here’s a twist—what if your cooktop isn’t the problem?
Sometimes, the issue lies with your home’s electrical system or circuit breaker. Older homes, especially, may not support the high wattage required by modern cooktops.
Signs of an electrical issue:
- Cooktop works intermittently
- Other kitchen appliances also trip breakers
- Smell of burning plastic or wires
This is your cue to call a licensed electrician—and let Oven Fixer handle the cooktop diagnostics and repairs.
8. Control Board or Touchpad Failure
Newer electric cooktops often come with digital touchpads or electronic controls. When the control board malfunctions, the unit may look “on” but fail to activate any heating.
Possible reasons:
- Software glitches
- Moisture damage from steam or spills
- Faulty control board circuitry
You’ll need a professional to open it up and test the internal board. In many cases, Oven Fixer’s technicians can repair or replace the damaged components without replacing the entire unit.
9. You Might Be Using the Wrong Cookware
Believe it or not, your cookware could be the problem.
Some electric cooktops, especially induction models, require magnetic-based pots and pans. If your cookware isn’t compatible, the burner might not activate at all.
What to check:
- Is your cookware flat-bottomed and induction-ready?
- Try switching to a different pot and see if the burner responds.
Still nothing? Then the issue lies deeper—call in a pro.
Should You Repair or Replace the Cooktop?
Good question.
Here’s a quick decision guide:
| Issue | Likely Cost | Recommended Action |
| Minor wiring or switch fault | Low to medium | Repair |
| Single burner not working | Low | Repair |
| Multiple burners dead | Medium | Diagnose & repair |
| Cracked surface | Medium to high | Replace or repair |
| Touchpad/control board failure | High | Repair if model is recent |
| Cooktop over 10 years old | High | Consider replacement |
Need help making the call? Reach out to Oven Fixer’s Melbourne cooktop repair experts. We’ll give you an honest assessment and cost-effective options.
Why Choose Oven Fixer?
We’re not just here to fix your appliance—we’re here to make your life easier.
Here’s why Melbourne homeowners trust Oven Fixer for gas and electric cooktop repairs:
- Licensed and insured technicians
- Expertise across all major brands
- Same-day or next-day service available
- Transparent pricing—no hidden charges
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
Whether it’s an urgent issue or routine maintenance, our goal is to make your cooktop feel brand new again.
Don’t Let a Cold Cooktop Slow You Down
Your kitchen should be a space of comfort, creativity, and connection—not frustration.
So the next time your electric cooktop stops heating, don’t guess and gamble. Trust the professionals. With years of experience in gas cooktop repair and cooktop repair service across Melbourne, Oven Fixer is here to help.
👉 Book your cooktop repair today and get your kitchen back on track.
Need urgent help? Call us now or use our easy online booking form. Because when it comes to reliable cooking, you shouldn’t have to wait.
