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Induction hobs are among the safest cooktops to use thanks to their locking mechanisms (when included) and their automatic switch-off components. But is there a problem? It’s rather annoying when your induction hob keeps switching off when you don’t want it to?
There’s a good chance it’s likely to be an interference issue rather than a problem with the hob outright. However, let’s consider a few reasons why your induction hob isn’t behaving as you expect it to.
Why does my induction hob keep turning off?
Before you go ahead and call your manufacturer or supplier regarding induction hob faults, make sure to consider all of the following reasons as to why your cooktop might be turning on and off without your say-so. There’s a good chance the problem is easy enough to fix before you get an engineer involved!
Is your induction hob dirty?
One of the most common reasons for induction hobs to turn themselves off automatically is because there is debris or dirt on the glass surface. Anything that may be covering the hob could be interfering with its heating mechanism.
As you may know, induction hobs use magnetic fields to heat up. The magnetic field is completed by use of a coil beneath the surface of the glass, and needs to be connected to magnetic bases of your pots and pans.
If anything interferes with the connection between the magnetic coil and cookware bases, then the hob will automatically turn off. That is why it is always a good idea to ensure that your induction hob is clean before you use it. Ensure that you clean it properly, too, so as not to scratch the hob’s glass surface.
Is there liquid on the hob surface?
Water can get splashed on and across hobs from when we clean them, from glasses falling over, water boiling over pots and pans – the list goes on. However, if your induction hob detects that there is too much water on the surface or even surrounding the hob (potentially seeping through into the mechanisms underneath), then it will automatically turn off.
It will do so as a safety precaution – because the water could be interfering with the magnetic field. Therefore, you will need a clean, dry cloth to wipe away the excess water before continuing to cook on your induction hob successfully.
Is your induction hob detecting pans?
As mentioned, your hob needs to be connected to a pot or pan with a magnetic base. If the ring or zone you have selected does not detect the pan, then it will automatically turn off.
The ring may not be detecting the pan because it is not correctly placed, it is not the right size for the ring, or simply because it does not have a magnetic base. It could also be because you have removed the pan from the spot too soon.
Whether you remove the pan from the hob to empty some food out, to serve or otherwise, you will have a certain amount of time to return the pan to the ring before the hob automatically turns off. The amount of time you will have depends on the make and model you’re using – trust us, you should always read the instruction manual!
Has your hob been installed correctly?
Sadly, one of the things that you will have to consider is whether or not the induction hob has been installed properly. Your induction hob will need a certain amount of power, and if the power source that it is connected to is either too strong or too weak, then the unit will likely turn itself off repeatedly.
It’s a good reason why it’s so important to arrange for an engineer or installer to set up your induction hob for you.
What if it’s none of these issues?
Finally, if you have checked all of the points above, then your induction hob could keep turning itself off because there is a problem with internal mechanisms. It could have gotten damaged during the installation, transport, or even during the time that you have been using it.
If this is the case, it’s worth considering looking into the warranty of your appliance to check if you are covered for any faults that develop. On the whole, most manufacturers offer at least a year in warranty as base, so be sure to take them up on it!
How do I fix my induction hob?
As you can see, most of the problems that could be causing your induction hob to turn itself off are easily fixed. Start by cleaning the induction hob and the surrounding area thoroughly to ensure that nothing is interfering with it. You will also need to check underneath the hob, if you have a drawer or a cupboard there, to ensure that nothing is blocking the mechanisms underneath the hob from working properly.
Then, check the bases of your pans to ensure that they are suitable for induction hobs. You can simply check their bases for a symbol or words detailing that they are suitable for induction, or you can check them with a magnet. If the magnet sticks to their bases, then they are suitable for your induction hob – if not, you will need some new pots and pans!
However, should the problem be more serious, then it could be that you will need an engineer to come and repair the hob, or you may even need to replace it.
Thankfully, the chances of there being a serious problem with your induction hob are very small, especially if you do take care of it. That being said, if you are concerned about using it, then it is always best to consult a certified engineer before using it to ensure that you are your loved ones are safe.
Induction hobs can save you in electricity costs, but having them switch off when you don’t want them to is just an annoyance! Remember, you should never attempt to repair your induction hob yourself, as you risk causing further damage, as well as endangering yourself and those around you. They are very powerful appliances that need to be attached directly to the mains in your home. Therefore, they need professional attention to ensure that they do not become a safety risk for you and your loved ones and of course to ensure they last and work for a very long time!