Your Cooktop Might Be Dangerous: What Breaks Most Often and When to Call a Technician

Cooktops are essential to any kitchen, but when they start acting up, things can quickly go from inconvenient to downright dangerous. A faulty cooktop isn’t just a hassle — it can become a serious safety risk if ignored. In this article, we’ll go over the most common issues, warning signs that something’s wrong, and when it’s time to call a professional repair service in Manitoba.

1. Cooktop Not Heating Up? Here’s Why

One of the most frequent problems homeowners report is that the cooktop stops heating. It might be just one burner or the entire unit. Before you panic, here are a few things that could be causing the issue:

• A burnt-out heating element

• Faulty control board

• Broken sensor or thermostat

• Electrical wiring problems

• Power supply issues or tripped breaker

Some of these issues can be checked at home (like resetting the breaker), but many require professional tools and diagnostics.

2. Cracked Glass Surface: Cosmetic or Dangerous?

Did you accidentally drop a pot and notice a crack on the cooktop surface? While it might seem like a minor issue, cracked glass is more than just a cosmetic problem. It can lead to:

• Moisture getting inside the cooktop and damaging internal components

• Increased risk of electrical shock

• Complete shattering under high temperatures

If the glass is cracked, stop using the cooktop immediately and schedule a service appointment. Continuing to use it could put your family at risk.

3. Induction vs. Electric: Which One Breaks More Often?

Each cooktop type has its pros and cons when it comes to reliability:

• Induction cooktops are energy-efficient and heat up fast, but they rely on complex electronics. They’re more sensitive to power surges or software malfunctions.

• Traditional electric cooktops are more straightforward but can overheat or burn out elements with age.

In general, induction cooktops are more prone to electronic issues, while electric ones often suffer from physical wear and tear. Either way, both types need regular maintenance.

4. Warning Signs That Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Some problems aren’t just annoying — they’re potentially dangerous. Watch for these red flags:

• Sparking or buzzing sounds during use

• The burner stays hot even when turned off

• The control panel turns on and off randomly

• Burning smell while cooking

• Circuit breaker constantly trips when using the cooktop

These signs may point to serious electrical faults. Do not attempt DIY repairs in these cases — it’s not worth the risk.

5. What You Can Check Before Calling a Technician

While we always recommend getting a professional diagnosis, there are a few things you can try before booking a service:

• Unplug the cooktop or turn off the circuit breaker for 10 minutes to reset the system

• Make sure the child lock or safety mode isn’t activated

• Inspect the power outlet (if it’s a plug-in model)

If these quick checks don’t help — or if the problem involves sparks, cracks, or exposed wiring — it’s time to call a technician.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until It Gets Worse

A malfunctioning cooktop is more than just an inconvenience — it’s a safety hazard. If you’re noticing any of the signs above, don’t wait. Our team of expert appliance technicians is ready to help in Winnipeg, Lorette, Oak Bank, Landmark, and Ste Anne.

We’ll diagnose the issue, offer reliable repair solutions, and get your cooktop back to working condition — safely and quickly.

👉 Book your repair today and cook with confidence tomorrow.