Can Hobs Be Repaired? What You Need to Know Before Calling a Technician

When your hob stops working, it’s not just an inconvenience-it’s a disruption to your entire kitchen routine. You might be wondering: can hobs be repaired, or is it time to buy a new one? The answer isn’t simple. It depends on the type of hob, how old it is, what’s broken, and how much it’ll cost to fix. Most hobs can be repaired, but not all repairs make financial sense. Here’s what actually happens when a hob fails-and how to decide whether to fix it or replace it.

What Types of Hobs Can Be Repaired?

Gas hobs are the most commonly repaired. Issues like faulty ignition switches, blocked burners, or leaking gas valves can usually be fixed. A technician can clean clogged ports, replace spark modules, or swap out faulty valves. These parts are standard and widely available. Even older gas hobs from the 2000s often have replacement parts still in circulation.

Electric coil hobs are simple in design. If a burner won’t heat, it’s often just the element or the switch under the control knob. Replacing a coil element costs under $30. The wiring and switches can also be replaced. These repairs are straightforward and rarely cost more than $100.

Ceramic hobs (smooth glass tops) are trickier. The glass surface can crack from heavy pots or thermal shock. If it’s just a crack, the whole top needs replacing. That can cost $200-$500, depending on the brand. But if the issue is a faulty heating element or control board, those can be swapped out. Many ceramic hobs from brands like Bosch, Siemens, or Indesit still have parts available even after 10 years.

Induction hobs are the most complex. They use electromagnetic coils under the glass. If one zone stops working, it could be a failed coil, a broken control board, or a power supply issue. Repairs are possible, but parts are pricier. A single induction coil might cost $80-$150, and labor can add another $100-$200. If the main control board fails, the repair often approaches the cost of a new unit.

When Is Repair Worth It?

For example:

• A $600 induction hob with a $250 control board repair? Fix it.
• A $400 ceramic hob with a $350 glass top replacement? Replace it.
• A $250 gas hob with a $60 ignition switch replacement? Definitely fix it.

Also consider how much you use it. If you cook daily, investing in a repair that lasts 5+ years makes sense. If you rarely use the hob, replacing it might be better-even if the repair is cheap.

Brand matters too. Premium brands like Miele, Bora, or Siemens often have better build quality and longer parts availability. Budget brands like Hotpoint or Defy might not have parts after 8 years. Check the model number online. If you find replacement parts listed on appliance parts sites like AppliancePartsPros or Espares, repair is likely viable.

Common Hob Problems and Their Fixes

Here are the top 5 issues and whether they’re fixable:

1. Burner won’t light (gas) - Usually a dirty igniter or faulty spark module. Clean with a toothbrush or replace the module ($40-$80).
2. One zone not heating (electric or induction) - Often a failed heating element or coil. Easy to replace if you have the part ($30-$150).
3. Control panel unresponsive - Could be a faulty touchpad, control board, or wiring. Control boards cost $100-$300. If the hob is over 7 years old, weigh this against a new unit.
4. Cracked glass top (ceramic or induction) - Not repairable. Must be replaced. Cost: 40-70% of a new hob’s price.
5. Gas smell when off - Serious. Could be a leaking valve or cracked pipe. Shut off gas immediately. This requires professional repair-don’t attempt DIY.

What to Avoid When Repairing a Hob

DIY repairs can save money-but only if you know what you’re doing. Here’s what not to do:

• Don’t try to fix gas leaks yourself. Gas is dangerous. Even a small leak can cause an explosion. Always call a licensed gas technician.
• Don’t use regular glass cleaner on ceramic hobs. Ammonia-based cleaners can etch the surface. Use only ceramic hob cleaners or vinegar and water.
• Don’t replace parts without matching the model number. A coil from a different brand might look similar but won’t fit or could overload the circuit.
• Don’t ignore error codes. Modern hobs display codes like E1, E4, or F2. Look them up in the manual or online. They tell you exactly what’s wrong.

How Long Do Repairs Last?

A well-executed repair should last as long as the original part would have. A new ignition switch on a gas hob? Expect 5-8 years. A new heating element on an electric hob? 7-10 years. Control boards on induction hobs? 3-5 years if the unit runs hot or has poor ventilation.

But here’s the catch: if one part fails, others are often close behind. If your 12-year-old hob’s control board dies, the power supply, sensors, and wiring may also be worn out. Replacing just the board might fix it now-but you could be back in a year.

That’s why technicians often give a 30-90 day warranty on repairs. If it breaks again within that time, they’ll fix it for free. That’s a good sign the repair is solid.

When to Just Replace the Hob

It’s time to walk away when:

• The repair costs more than 50% of a new hob’s price.
• The hob is over 10 years old and has had multiple repairs.
• Parts are no longer available (check the manufacturer’s support page).
• You’re upgrading your kitchen anyway.
• The hob is unsafe (gas leaks, cracked glass, electrical sparks).

Modern hobs are more efficient, safer, and easier to clean. Induction hobs, for example, use 40% less energy than electric coils. If your hob is old, replacing it could save you money on your electricity bill over time.

How to Find a Reliable Repair Technician

Not all repair people are created equal. Here’s how to pick one:

• Look for certified technicians-especially for gas hobs. In the U.S., ask for a licensed gas fitter. In the UK, check for Gas Safe registration.
• Ask if they carry parts for your brand. If they say “we order them,” that’s a red flag. Technicians who stock parts can fix it same-day.
• Get a written quote before they start. Some charge a diagnostic fee ($50-$80), but it should be waived if you hire them for the repair.
• Check reviews on Google or Trustpilot. Look for mentions of honesty, speed, and clear communication.

Avoid big national chains if you can. Local independent technicians often charge less and know older models better.

Final Decision Checklist

Before you decide, ask yourself these five questions:

1. Is the hob less than 10 years old?
2. Is the repair cost under half the price of a new one?
3. Are replacement parts still being made for this model?
4. Has it needed repairs before in the last 2 years?
5. Do I use it every day, or just occasionally?

If you answered yes to the first three and no to the last two, repair it. Otherwise, replace it.

There’s no shame in replacing a hob. Appliances aren’t meant to last forever. But if your hob can be fixed safely and affordably, there’s no reason not to give it another few years.