Induction hob not heating: causes and fixes
An induction hob that stops heating is usually the victim of something simple: an incompatible pan, a safety lock, or blocked ventilation. An electronic fault is the last thing to suspect.
Safety first
A hob with cracked glass must not be used any more: water getting in creates a risk of electrocution.
The causes, from most to least common
Check them in this order: the first ones are free and solve the majority of cases.
- 1
Pan not induction-compatible
very commonHow to check: The magnet test: if a magnet doesn't stick to the base of the pan, induction won't work.
Fix: Use a pan with a ferromagnetic base, sized to match the zone.
EasyEstimated cost: 0 € - 2
Child lock or key lock switched on
very commonHow to check: A padlock or key symbol is displayed and the controls don't respond.
Fix: Hold the lock button for a few seconds to unlock.
EasyEstimated cost: 0 € - 3
Electronics overheating (blocked ventilation)
commonHow to check: The hob works then cuts out after a few minutes, sometimes with an error code. The drawer under the hob is full, or the vents are blocked.
Fix: Clear the space under the hob and dust the ventilation grilles.
EasyEstimated cost: 0 € - 4
Dirty or wet touch controls
commonHow to check: The controls respond poorly or erratically, especially after a spillage.
Fix: Clean and dry the control area thoroughly.
EasyEstimated cost: 0 € - 5
Induction coil or power board failed
less commonHow to check: One zone stays permanently dead while the others work, with a suitable pan.
Fix: Professional diagnosis. On a hob over 10 years old, compare against the price of a new one.
ProfessionalEstimated cost: 150 to 350 €
If you take this out-of-warranty induction hob to a QualiRépar-certified repairer, 25€ comes off the invoice.
| Repair by a professional | 150 to 350 € |
| Repair bonus deducted | - 25 € |
| What you pay | 125 to 325 € |
Indicative estimate: the real price depends on the part, the model and the call-out. The bonus can never exceed the invoice total.
How to claim the repair bonus →When to call a professional
A permanently dead zone, with a compatible pan and no overheating, indicates a failed coil or power board: professional work required. Cracked glass means stopping use immediately.
Find a repairer near you →Frequently asked questions
How do you know if a pan works on induction?
Hold a magnet to the base: if it sticks firmly, the pan is compatible. Diameter matters too: a base that is too small for the zone is sometimes not detected at all.
Why does my induction hob cut out after a few minutes?
It is almost always a thermal cut-out: the electronics overheat because the ventilation under the hob is blocked (an over-full drawer, accumulated dust). Clear the space beneath and clean the vents.
Your induction hob may be nearing the end of its life: a induction hob lasts 10 to 15 years. Beyond that, an expensive repair is harder to justify.