Electric Hob Repair Cost Calculator
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The repair cost is approaching 50% of a new hob's price. Check if your model is still under warranty.
Fixing an electric hob doesn’t have to be a surprise expense-if you know what to expect. Many people assume a broken heating element means replacing the whole unit, but that’s not always true. In fact, most electric hob repairs cost between $150 and $450, depending on the issue, brand, and labor rates. Some fixes are simple and cheap. Others? They’re closer to buying a new one.
What’s Actually Broken?
The first step in figuring out your repair cost is knowing what’s wrong. Electric hobs don’t just stop working all at once. Different parts fail in different ways, and each has its own price tag.- Heating element - The most common failure. One ring stops heating, or it flickers. Replacing a single element costs $50-$120 for parts, plus labor.
- Control board - If multiple zones don’t work, or the display is glitchy, the control board might be fried. These cost $150-$300, and installation is tricky. Some models aren’t worth repairing here.
- Thermostat or temperature sensor - If the hob overheats or won’t reach the right temp, this could be the culprit. Parts run $30-$80.
- Wiring or terminal block - Loose or burnt wires cause sparks or no power. Simple fix if caught early: $80-$150.
- Glass ceramic surface - Cracks or deep scratches? You can’t patch them. Replacing the whole top costs $300-$600, depending on size and brand.
Most homeowners fix the element first. It’s the easiest and cheapest. But if you’ve tried replacing the element and it still doesn’t work, you’re likely dealing with a deeper problem-like the control board. At that point, you need to ask: is this repair worth it?
Brand Matters More Than You Think
Not all electric hobs are built the same. A Bosch or Siemens hob might cost $200 to repair because parts are expensive but durable. A budget brand like Hotpoint or Beko? Parts are cheaper, but they break more often.Here’s what you’ll typically see in 2026:
| Brand | Element Replacement | Control Board | Glass Top Replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch / Siemens | $80-$130 | $250-$400 | $400-$600 |
| Indesit / Hotpoint | $50-$90 | $180-$300 | $300-$500 |
| Neff | $90-$140 | $280-$450 | $450-$650 |
| Smeg / Miele | $100-$160 | $300-$500 | $500-$750 |
High-end brands like Miele often use proprietary parts that only authorized technicians can order. That means longer wait times and higher labor rates. Budget brands? You might find parts on Amazon or eBay, but installing them yourself isn’t always safe-or legal. If your hob is wired directly into your home’s circuit, you need a licensed electrician. No exceptions.
Labor Costs Vary by Region and Technician
Parts are only half the story. Labor makes up 40-60% of the total cost. In big cities like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles, you’re looking at $80-$120 per hour. In smaller towns? $50-$75 is more common.Some companies charge a flat service fee just to show up-usually $50-$100. That fee often gets waived if you go ahead with the repair. Others charge by the job, not the hour. A simple element swap might be a flat $150. A control board replacement? $300 flat.
Here’s what you should ask before hiring anyone:
- Do you charge a call-out fee? Is it waived if I repair?
- Do you use OEM parts or generic replacements?
- Do you offer a warranty on parts and labor?
- Are you licensed to work on hardwired appliances?
Don’t skip the warranty question. A reputable tech will offer at least 90 days on parts and labor. If they won’t guarantee their work, walk away. You’ll end up paying twice.
When to Repair vs. Replace
This is the big decision. If your hob is older than 10 years, and the repair cost is more than half the price of a new one, it’s time to think about replacement.Here’s a quick rule:
- Repair if: The hob is under 8 years old, the issue is a single element or sensor, and the cost is under $250.
- Replace if: The control board is bad, the glass is cracked, or the repair hits $350+-especially if your model is discontinued.
Why? Because older hobs use outdated tech. New models are more energy-efficient, have better safety features like auto-shutoff, and often come with smart controls. A mid-range electric hob today costs $600-$900. If you’re spending $400 to fix a 12-year-old one, you’re just delaying the inevitable.
Also, check your home insurance. Some policies cover appliance repairs or replacements after accidental damage. You might not need to pay out of pocket at all.
DIY: Should You Try It?
You can replace a heating element yourself if you’re handy. Parts cost $30-$80, and YouTube tutorials are everywhere. But here’s the catch: if you mess up the wiring, you risk a fire or electrocution. And if your hob is hardwired (most are), you’re breaking electrical code by doing it yourself.Most insurers won’t cover damage from DIY repairs. And if you cause a short circuit that fries your whole kitchen circuit? That repair could cost $2,000.
Only attempt DIY if:
- Your hob plugs into a standard outlet (rare for built-ins)
- You have experience with electrical systems
- You’re okay voiding the warranty
For 95% of people, hiring a pro is the safer, smarter move.
How to Save Money on Repairs
You don’t have to pay full price. Here’s how to cut costs without cutting corners:- Get multiple quotes - Call 3 local technicians. Prices can vary by $100+ for the same job.
- Ask about seasonal discounts - Many repair companies offer lower rates in spring or fall when demand drops.
- Check manufacturer warranties - Some brands offer 5-10 year coverage on elements. You might be covered.
- Bundle repairs - If your oven or extractor fan also needs work, ask for a multi-appliance discount.
- Buy parts yourself - If the tech allows it, order the part online and have them install it. You can save 30-50%.
One homeowner in Ohio saved $220 by ordering a replacement element from a UK parts supplier. It took 10 days to arrive, but the cost was $42 versus $110 locally.
What Happens If You Don’t Fix It?
A broken hob might seem like a minor inconvenience. But leaving it unfixed can lead to bigger problems.- Water spills into a damaged element can cause rust, corrosion, and electrical shorts.
- A faulty control board might send power spikes to other appliances on the same circuit.
- Unrepaired wiring can overheat and ignite nearby insulation.
- Insurance claims may be denied if damage is linked to neglect.
It’s not just about cooking. It’s about safety. Don’t wait until something catches fire to act.
How long does an electric hob repair take?
Most repairs take 1-2 hours. Replacing a heating element? Under an hour. Control board swaps or glass top replacements can take 2-4 hours, especially if parts need ordering. If the technician has to wait for a part, the job might stretch to a day or two.
Can I use my hob if one ring isn’t working?
Technically, yes-but you shouldn’t. A broken element can put extra strain on the rest of the system. It might cause the control board to fail faster. Also, if the element is cracked or sparking, it’s a fire risk. Turn off the circuit and get it checked.
Do all electric hobs use the same parts?
No. Each brand and model uses different elements, boards, and connectors. Even two hobs from the same brand can have incompatible parts if they’re from different years. Always give the model number to the technician before ordering anything.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a hob with a cracked glass top?
Replacing the glass top usually costs 70-80% of a new hob’s price. For most people, it’s cheaper to buy a new unit. New hobs also come with better efficiency, safety sensors, and modern controls. Unless your hob is high-end and under warranty, replacement is the better choice.
How often do electric hobs need repairs?
A well-maintained electric hob lasts 10-15 years. Most repairs happen after 7-8 years, usually with heating elements. Regular cleaning helps-spilled food can cause overheating. Avoid using metal scourers on the glass surface. They create micro-scratches that weaken it over time.
Next Steps: What to Do Today
If your hob isn’t working:- Turn off the power at the breaker. Safety first.
- Check the model number on the label inside the hob or in the manual.
- Search online for your model and the specific issue. See if others have fixed it cheaply.
- Call two local repair services. Ask for a quote over the phone based on your description.
- Compare quotes, warranties, and parts sources. Don’t pick the cheapest-pick the most reliable.
- If the repair looks too expensive, check local appliance stores for refurbished models. You might find a like-new hob for under $500.
Electric hobs are built to last. But when they break, knowing the real costs helps you make a smart choice-not a panicked one. Fix it right, or replace it wisely. Either way, you’ll be cooking again before the weekend’s over.
