An induction cooktop is an easy favorite among many homeowners – and unsurprisingly so. This intelligent appliance is designed to make your life infinitely easier. After all, it boasts fast cooking times, energy efficiency, safety, and convenience. However, it is not without fault and, like any other machine, you can expect it to malfunction at one point.
One of the most common problems is when your appliance won’t turn on right when you are about to prepare some meals. It is incredibly frustrating, that’s for sure, but don’t call a professional appliance repair technician just yet. There are simple fixes you could try out first. Read on to find out how to fire up your induction cooktop once and for all.
Why Your Induction Cooktop Won’t Turn On and How to Fix
An induction cooktop – also known as an “induction stove” – works via induction or electromagnetism. More specifically, it relies on an electromagnetic field – which is produced by an electric current – to directly warm up your food. Thanks to this mechanism, induction stoves can boil water up to 50 percent faster than your conventional electric- or gas-powered heating element. Even better, it can also maintain a consistent and precise temperature, which means that you could whip up delicious meals every single time.
The absence of flames or an electrical heating source also makes induction cooking a safer and far more convenient method. For one, it won’t cause the kitchen to heat up and prevents you from inadvertently starting a fire. The stove’s surface also remains cool to touch, making it a breeze to clean after use.
If your induction cooktop won’t turn on, you probably will just have to tweak the appliance’s settings to make it work again. Or, there may be issues with the burner or power supply, both of which can still be addressed the do-it-yourself way. If you are unlucky, the problem might be more technical in nature, which is already out of your hands.
Important note:
Before performing any of the tests below, make sure to disconnect your cooktop from the power supply first. Remember, this appliance runs on electricity, which means that you may get an electric shock. Aside from this, we also recommend wearing the appropriate protective gloves to further minimize the risk of cuts and other injuries. Finally, if you feel uncomfortable dealing with electrical issues, know that you can always let professionals handle the job instead.
1. The Cooktop Is in Lock Mode
This is perhaps the most common reason why your stove won’t power up. One thing you should know is that induction cooktops are high-tech and equipped with several nifty features. One of them is the so-called “lock mode” or “control lock function.” If this setting is turned on, you won’t be able to turn on your stove via the touch panels. This prevents children from playing with your cooktop and wasting precious electricity.
When your appliance is in lock mode, there is typically a light on the stove to indicate it. To unlock your cooktop, all you have to do is press the lock button, and hold it down for at least five seconds. The display light should turn off, usually accompanied by an audible sound. The exact steps may vary from one model to another, so make sure to refer to the product’s instructions manual.
If your stove won’t unlock even after the press of the button, there might be something wrong with the control panel. Such problems are trickier to diagnose and deal with, so it is best to call a repair professional instead.
However, if the lock mode capability is indeed the culprit, you should be able to turn on your cooktop now. If unlocking your cooktop doesn’t solve the issue, read on and proceed with the troubleshooting process.
Related Article: What to Do If the Gas Cooktop Surface Burner Won’t Light
2. The Burner Has Malfunctioned
Traditional stoves have several burners – rounded components that are raised above the surface and come in different sizes. In contrast, induction cooktops only have a single “burner” – sometimes referred to as an “induction area” or an “induction hob.” The copper coils beneath the glass surface produce an electric current and generate heat once they come in contact with the cookware.
If your appliance is not turning on, there might be a problem with the induction burner. Maybe the coils have gone kaput or there are cracks in the glass surface.
To inspect if your burner is faulty, you will have to remove the glass surface of the cooktop. Typically, this involves removing the mounting screws and clamping brackets beneath the covering. Once these parts are out of the way, you will be able to lift the glass top. Set it aside on a flat, sturdy surface. Now, examine the copper coils and wiring underneath.
Are there signs of damage (such as visible scorch marks) on the copper coils? If so, you will have to replace them. Fortunately, replacement parts are easy to obtain online. All you have to do is detach the wire harnesses and the spring clips holding the coils in place, then attach the new models. You may also have to reuse and reattach the spring clips, since replacement parts may not include them.
The steps on how to replace the burner components may depend on the manufacturer and the model. So, as always, make sure to refer to the instructions manual for more information.
Note: Before handling your cooktop, don’t forget to turn off the power at the circuit breaker. Disconnect the wires at the junction box as well.
3. There Is a Lack of Power
Induction stoves require electricity to produce an electromagnetic field. So, if there is no reliable power source, then it is hardly surprising that your appliance is not firing up. One possibility is that the circuit breaker has tripped, consequently interrupting the power supply to the cooktop.
To confirm if this is the case, go to the circuit breaker box. The cooktop’s switch will be stuck in between the “on” and “off” positions if it has indeed tripped. To fix this, you simply have to reset your cooktop, which typically entails pushing the switch to the “off” position, holding it in place for a few seconds, then moving it all the way to the other end (the “on” position).
If there are signs of damage on the breaker, you will have to let repair professionals solve the problem instead.
Related Article: Why Is the Induction Cooktop Shutting Off While Cooking?
4. The Power Connection to the Stove Is Faulty
Another possible reason why your induction cooktop won’t turn on – and this is related to the previous one – is that the power connection is wrong or loose. First, you would want to check the connection at the junction box, ensuring that the wiring is secure and properly attached. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage as well. If there are no issues with the junction box, check the copper coil and wiring underneath the glass top for any telltale signs of damage. Again, any broken components will have to go and be replaced with a new model.
Related Article: What Are the Different Types of Stovetops and Which Is Best for You?
Let the Experts Fix Your Induction Cooktop
If you have tried all the steps above and your induction stove still won’t turn on, the problem is probably already beyond your control. Most likely, the issue has something to do with the control panel, power supply, or even the electrical installation. In this case, there is no need to pull your hair out in despair and spend hours trying to crack a too-complicated problem. All you have to do is call a trusted appliance repair company, and they will get the job done in record time. It won’t be long before your good old induction cooktop is functioning properly again – and you’re cooking sumptuous meals for yourself and your family. Call Prime Appliance Repairs today!
FAQs
Why will my induction cooktop not turn on? ›
If the cooktop is not working at all, the first logical step is to check the main power supply. Check for tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. Make sure that the entire fuses are operational. Make sure that the cooktop is not lockout which can happen if Control Lock is activated when power to the cooktop is off.
How do you reset an induction cooktop? ›Try a Cold Reset
If your induction stove may be stuck in the off position, you simply need to turn off electricity at the main breaker for at least 30 minutes. This will be enough time for most models to perform a cold reset on itself.
A broken induction cooktop cannot be repaired. If the cooktop is cracked or if the cooktop is shattered, it will need to be replaced entirely. Attempting to repair an induction cooktop without proper training could result in serious injury. However, you can troubleshoot if your cooktop is intact but not turning on.
What to do if my induction stove is not working? ›In this case, just insert a new fuse to the electric board and check if the induction is working. See the burner. If you are sure that your burner is faulty then you should look at the copper coils and get them replaced. At times, the induction goes into lock mode.
Why would an induction not work? ›When induction fails, it is most often because your baby wasn't ready to be born and your body hadn't had the signal it was expecting to get ready. Induction interferes with the normal process your body is expecting and either doesn't respond well or refuses to cooperate.
How do you unblock an induction? ›- Long press the main power button for ten seconds at least.
- Release the button and attempt to switch on the hob.
- If the cooktop is unlocked already, you can switch it on.
how long do induction stoves last? The lifespan of an induction cooktop is typically measured in operating hours rather than years. Typically, models designed for domestic use will last for 2500 hours, which is equivalent to 10 hours a day for about a year.
How do you turn on an induction cooktop? ›Using your induction hob
Place your induction pan on the hob ring you wish to use. Hold your finger down on the power switch located on the appliance. Start cooking by selecting the sensor which relates to the ring you wish to use. Adjust the heat by pressing the + and – sensors.
The cost to replace a stove top varies for each one. A new electric smooth-top glass stove top costs $150 to $600, while a new induction glass stove top costs $300 to $800.
How much does it cost to repair an induction stove? ›Induction cooktop repair costs
Though failure is rare, the average cost to repair induction cooktops can range from $200–800. Repairs for ovens in induction ranges are the same as those for standard electric stoves.
How much does it cost to replace an induction stove top? ›
However, you must also make sure that your cookware is compatible. Induction cooktop installation cost can be higher too because of the high heat that they generate. They range between $650 to $2,200.
How common is a failed induction? ›Results. This study showed that the prevalence of failed induction was 20.5% (95% CI: (15.7–25.3%)). The odds of failed induction in unfavorable bishop score were 4.05 higher than the odds in favorable bishop [AOR = 4.05 95%CI (1.19–13.77)].
Can you force an induction? ›In order to mitigate that risk, induction is routinely scheduled anywhere between 37 and 39 weeks. As a sovereign individual, you always have the right to accept or decline any medical treatment that is offered to you. Therefore, the general answer is no, a doctor can never force you to be induced.
How often does induction not work? ›The Statistics About Failed Induction
According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 75 percent of first-time birthing people who get induced will go on to have a vaginal birth.
Potential for Damage: Finally, some materials can cause damage to your induction cooktop, leading to expensive repairs or the need to replace your entire appliance. For example, aluminum foil can cause damage if placed in contact with the cooktop, so it needs to be used with care.
Can I boil water on induction? ›On a new induction cooking surface, you can boil water in about two minutes or less as opposed to 5-8 minutes on traditional cooking surfaces – including gas.
Can you use aluminum foil on induction? ›Cooking surface manufacturers prohibit the use of aluminum foil in contact with an induction cooking surface.
Do chefs prefer gas or induction? ›Chefs love induction cooking because of the extremely fast heating and precise heat control provided through a high-performance glass-ceramic surface. Also, induction technology warms the pan and not the surface or surrounding area, so very little heat escapes into the room.
What are the disadvantages of induction cooking? ›- Induction cooking feels very different from cooking with gas. ...
- It can get expensive when you convert from gas to electric. ...
- You need the right cookware. ...
- It might emit a sound. ...
- You may need an analog thermometer.
Are induction cooktops worth it? Bottom line: Even though induction takes some getting used to, we love the unbeatable temperature control induction cooktops offer. In comparison to electric, induction cooktops cook food more quickly, adjust better to temperature changes, and take no time at all to cool down.
How do you test if an electrical switch is working? ›
Turn the switch lever on and off. The tester should light up when the switch lever is in the on position but should not light up when the switch lever is off. If it doesn't exhibit this behavior, it indicates the inner connections are bad and that the switch needs to be replaced.
How do I know if my induction cooker is working? ›He recommends a simple trick to check for induction compatibility: Grab a magnet from your fridge and place it against the bottom of any pan in your current collection. If the magnet sticks, the pan will work on an induction appliance.
Which brand of induction cooktop is best? ›- Prestige PIC 20 1600 Watt Induction Cooktop. ...
- iBELL Induction Cooktop. ...
- Usha CookJoy 1600 Watt Induction cooktop. ...
- Prestige PIC 15.0+ 1900-Watt Induction Cooktop. ...
- Bajaj ABS Majesty Slim 2100-Watt Induction Cooktop. ...
- Bajaj Magnifique 2000W Induction Cooktop. ...
- PHILIPS Viva Collection HD4938/01.
Some Induction Hobs Do Require Installation
If you install an induction hob incorrectly, you may cause a fire, and because you installed the hob yourself, your home insurance won't cover any damages. So, be safe and get your induction hob installed by a professional electrician.
Induction ranges are more expensive compared to other options. However, because almost all of the heat is transferred to your cookware, less is emitted into the kitchen than a gas cooktop, reducing the need to use the exhaust and air conditioning to keep the kitchen cool.
Can you repair a cooktop? ›Many common repair projects can be solved on your own, but for effective, long-lasting solutions, you can count on a professional home appliance repair technician to get the job done. For assistance with all of your electric cooktop repair needs, be sure to contact a professional appliance repair service.
How much does it cost to fix a burner on a glass top stove? ›How Much Does a Glass Stove Top Replacement Cost? Cooktop prices vary depending on the brand of stove in your home and the model that you have. More affordable brands offer cooktop replacements for $100-$150. However, more expensive brands can charge more than $600 for a glass stove top replacement.
Can you damage induction cooktop? ›As a result of their glass-ceramic top, induction cooktops can break. Although the surface is durable, it isn't made from metal. It's made of durable glass-ceramic composite, so it doesn't usually break during normal everyday use. If used roughly, they can get scratched and cracked, however.
Can you use cast iron on induction? ›Induction uses magnetic fields to heat cookware, so your pan must contain conductive, ferrous metals to transfer heat. This makes cast iron a great option for induction cooking.
What is the best way to buy an induction cooktop? ›- Power Rate of the Cooktop. The first point that you need to consider when looking for a good induction stove is the power rate. ...
- Pre-set Menu. ...
- Safety Features. ...
- Pan Size of the Cooktop. ...
- Portability of the Cooktop.
Why is my induction locked? ›
Some induction hob models have a child safety mode, which can also be identified as a button lock: if the hob does not turn on, this lock may have been activated accidentally. Consult the user manual to find how to unlock it safely.
How do you turn on a real induction cooktop? ›Turn power on by pressing ON/OFF once. The power light indicators will turn red and the unit will start heating if a proper ferromagnetic pot is used. -There are two heat setting options – quick touch level selection (setting 1 through 10) and exact temperature settings (150 °F - 450 °F).
Can you ruin an induction cooktop? ›As a result of their glass-ceramic top, induction cooktops can break. Although the surface is durable, it isn't made from metal. It's made of durable glass-ceramic composite, so it doesn't usually break during normal everyday use. If used roughly, they can get scratched and cracked, however.
How do I know if my induction cooktop is working? ›The easiest way to test your cookware for use on an induction stove is with a kitchen magnet—if it sticks, you're good to go.
What does cooktop locked mean? ›If Control Lock is activated when power to the cooktop is off, the cooktop is locked out, and the surface cooking areas cannot be turned on by the cooktop touch controls. If Control Lock is activated when power to the cooktop is on, all keypads are locked out except for Power and Off.
How do I turn off child lock on induction cooktop? ›- Press and hold for 4 seconds. L will appear - If a timer is set the timer will remain. ...
- Activate the hob with. Do not set any heat settings.
- Press and hold for 4 seconds. L will appear.
- Deactivate the hob with. To deactivate the function:
- Activate the hob with. ...
- Press and hold for 4 seconds. ...
- Deactivate the hob with.
how long do induction stoves last? The lifespan of an induction cooktop is typically measured in operating hours rather than years. Typically, models designed for domestic use will last for 2500 hours, which is equivalent to 10 hours a day for about a year.
Can you touch an induction cooktop while its on? ›Induction Cooktop Safety
Because the surface of an induction stove or cooktop doesn't get hot, you—or your curious youngster—can touch it with your fingers without getting burned. This also means that if you splatter sauce onto the cooking surface, it won't burn, making cleanup easier.
Using Windex, which contains ammonia, can cause damage to glass cooktops that manufacturers won't cover. Ammonia can etch the surface of the cooktop.
Why are induction cooktops not popular? ›It works only with certain (though very common) cookware.
Your pots and pans need to contain enough iron to generate a magnetic field. Copper, aluminum, and ceramic wares don't work. Every manufacturer I contacted (GE, LG, Samsung) confirmed that the concern over compatibility is a major reason for the slow growth.