Electric Hob Replacement: What You Need to Know Before You Swap It Out

When your electric hob, a built-in cooking surface powered by electricity, commonly found in modern kitchens. Also known as an electric cooktop, it’s one of the most used appliances in your home—until it stops working right. A cracked surface, uneven heating, or a hob that won’t turn on isn’t just annoying—it’s a safety risk. Unlike gas hobs, electric ones don’t need gas lines or ventilation, but they do rely on wiring, heating elements, and control boards that wear out. If you’ve been ignoring flickering burners or slow heating, you’re not alone. Many homeowners try to patch things up with new knobs or temporary fixes, but those rarely last. The real question isn’t whether you can fix it—it’s whether you should.

Replacing an electric hob, a standalone cooking surface that connects directly to your home’s electrical system isn’t like swapping a light bulb. It involves disconnecting power, removing old wiring, aligning the new unit, and sealing it properly to avoid moisture damage. You’ll also need to match the cutout size, power rating, and control layout. A mismatched hob can overload your circuit or leave gaps that trap grease and crumbs—leading to fires or short circuits. Even if you’re handy, this isn’t the kind of job where a YouTube video is enough. Many people who try DIY end up calling a pro anyway, and now they’ve got two problems: the broken hob and a damaged electrical box.

Signs it’s time for a full electric hob replacement, the process of removing a faulty or outdated electric cooktop and installing a new one include: burners that take forever to heat up, sparks or burning smells, cracked glass that won’t seal, or controls that don’t respond. If your hob is over 10 years old, it’s probably using outdated tech and wasting energy. Newer models are up to 30% more efficient, have better safety shutoffs, and come with touch controls that actually work. And if you’re planning to sell your home, a modern hob adds value—buyers notice these details.

Most repairs, like swapping a heating element or thermostat, only cost $100–$200. But if the control board is fried or the glass is shattered, repair costs can hit $300–$500. At that point, replacement becomes the smarter move. A new electric hob runs $500–$1,500 installed, depending on brand and features. It’s not cheap, but it’s a one-time fix that lasts 15+ years. Compare that to paying for repairs every other year on an old unit.

Don’t wait until your hob dies completely. If it’s acting up, getting it checked now saves you from a midnight emergency or a flooded kitchen from a failed safety switch. The posts below cover real cases—what went wrong, how much it cost, and whether people regretted trying to fix it themselves. You’ll find honest advice from people who’ve been there, plus clear guidance on when to call a certified engineer. No fluff. No upsells. Just what you need to decide if it’s time to replace your electric hob.