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If you have just bought yourself a new induction hob and are getting ready for its installation, then the chances are that you will be looking at how to remove an induction hob from your worktop. Whether your current hob is an induction hob, gas, or even electric, you should never attempt to remove it from your worktop yourself.
If you’d like to know how to remove an induction hob from a worktop, it’s important to consult an engineer. If you buy a new hob, it may be the case that your supplier offers a ‘take away’ service for your old model. Unless you are fully trained to handle induction hobs and other electrical appliances, there are many risks to taking on this kind of manoeuvre yourself – trust us on this!
Why shouldn’t I remove my induction hob myself?
It’s a matter of safety – and what’s more, if you are removing your appliance while it is still under warranty, you may be voiding any chance you have of making a claim. Therefore, if you know there’s a fault and you want to get your old model up and away, always consult your manufacturer and/or supplier in the first instance.
Induction hobs, in particular, are known for being easy to install and are extremely lightweight on the whole, therefore easy to manoeuvre. Therefore, it is only natural for many of us to assume that they would be easy to remove by ourselves.
However, it is essential to remember that there is more to the hob than just the glass surface. There is an entire machine below the cooktop – while it is lighter than most hobs, it is still heavy and, therefore, you’re at risk of dropping it, or even harming yourself.
It is also important to note that your induction hob will have been fitted onto its own circuit. By trying to remove it from its circuit alone, you run the risk of causing severe damage not only to the circuit but also to yourself!
Leaving any appliance or wiring in a poor way is a fire risk and could prevent your new hob from being installed safely onto the same circuit, too. As mentioned, in most cases, when you buy a new hob, the store or manufacturer coming to install the new one will remove the old one as part of the installation. However, it is best to check about this before you buy the appliance!
On the other hand, if you are moving and would like to take your induction hob with you, then you will have to contact a professional engineer to come and remove the appliance – again, it’s simply not worthwhile you taking the job on yourself unless you are trained and qualified to do so.
But don’t feel completely hopeless – if you want to get ahead of the game to start getting things moving, there are things that you can do to help with the removal of the appliance, prior to the installation of your new Neff, Hotpoint, AEG hob.
How can I prepare for the removal of my induction hob?
First of all, take a deep breath – you’re going to need a little bit of time to properly prepare for induction hob removal, so pace yourself. Remember, the vast majority of the work will fall to the engineer you call in for help! Here’s a few points to keep in mind ahead of an engineer visiting.
Clear the area around the hob
In order for the engineer to be able to remove the hob as quickly and easily as possible, you will need to ensure that there is nothing blocking his access to the appliance.
Start by clearing away the area surrounding the glass surface. Even things not touching the hob could make it difficult for an engineer to be able to manoeuvre it, so if you have any spices, books, utensils, cloths, or anything near the hob, then it would be wise to clear the area.
Simply place these bits and pieces on a table, worktop or in another room, long enough for the technician to remove the hob, then replace it as you normally would.
Clear the area beneath the hob
As you know, there is plenty of stuff beneath the surface of the hob, including the majority of the machine’s workings! If your hob has been installed on top of a cupboard, drawer, or even a free-standing area, ensure that you empty out the space so that the technician can get in there as much as they need to. They will need plenty of room to be able to use their tools and possible reach into the space for a smooth removal.
Ensure that the engineer has easy access to the induction hob’s circuit
Finally, it is essential to ensure that your engineer has easy access to the circuit for your induction hob. Your circuit may have been hidden behind a board, tiling, or something else entirely – whatever you do, and regardless of where it may be, do not try to break into it – just ensure that the technician will have access to the area so that they can reach it safely and without complaint.
Final thoughts
Removing an induction hob does not have to be difficult. It requires a few basic tools and a bit of energy and time. However, in order to ensure that the hob has been removed safely and that there is no poor wiring (funny buzzing noises) or potential hazards left behind, it is always best to have the hob installed and removed by a professional.
You will find sources online detailing how you can do it yourself – however, trust us -it is simply not worth the risk! It’s worth the extra cost and time to ensure that your old model lifts out smoothly, ready for your new cooktop to slot into place.
In no time, you’ll be able to enjoy cooking on a brand new induction hob – why waste time and risk safety trying to handle it all yourself?
