An induction cooktop – also referred to as an “induction stove” – has risen in popularity in the past few decades. It is prized for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, allowing you to save both time and money in the long run. Even better, this type of cooktop creates heat instantly and is easy to clean, making it a godsend for individuals who value convenience above all. (Well, who doesn’t?)
However, no kitchen equipment is reliable 100% of the time. An induction cooktop is no exception. For whatever reason, it may stop functioning properly at some point – and that includes randomly shutting off when you are cooking. It is incredibly frustrating, that is for sure, but this problem is common and easily remedied. You just have to figure out what is causing it in the first place. Or call an appliance repair company.
Reasons Why the Induction Cooktop Keeps Shutting Off and the Solution
As the name indicates, an induction stove relies on the principle of induction cooking to heat your food. Instead of a flame or a heating element, it uses an electromagnetic field to warm up the pan, leaving the cooktop cool to the touch. This means that you won’t run the risk of accidentally burning your fingers, heating up the kitchen, or causing a fire. Furthermore, an induction cooktop directly heats every inch of the cookware bottom, allowing for a short warm-up time and maximum efficiency. In other words, you will be able to prep and serve your food much faster than usual.
At first glance, induction ranges resemble your usual glass-top electric ranges. The main difference, however, is that the cooking surface does not create a glow while in use. For this reason, some models emit lights to indicate that it is turned on.
Related Article: What to Do If the Gas Cooktop Surface Burner Won’t Light
Unfortunately, induction stoves may malfunction at one point – just like any other household appliance. Perhaps the most common issue is when it keeps shutting off while in use. When this happens, the first thing you need to do is refer to the product manual. It may contain explanations on why your cooktop is shutting off, as well as detailed instructions on how to address the problem. If you have already lost your hardcopy, try searching for it online. You will most likely be able to download it from the manufacturer’s website.
In any case, before doing any of the following examinations, make sure that you have already perused the manual and explored all the available options. If your cooktop still won’t work, you don’t need to seek help from an expert right away. You might be able to resolve the issue by yourself. Read on to find out how.
1. You Have Exceeded the Time Limit
Induction cooktops are fairly innovative and boast many built-in safety features. For example, they often come with a maximum cooking limit. Upon reaching it, your appliance will turn off to ensure that it is not overworked, as well as to conserve energy. This is by far one of the most common reasons why your induction stove will go off without warning.
2. The Cooktop Has a High Internal Temperature
Most induction stoves in the market are equipped with heat sensors. Again, this is primarily for safety purposes. Once the internal temperature of the cooker goes higher than normal, the unit will automatically shut off to cool down. You may be able to rectify the issue by playing around with the stove’s settings. As always, refer to the manual for more information.
3. You Are Using the Wrong Cookware
One important thing to know about induction stoves is that they can be a bit finicky when it comes to cookware. That is, if you are not using the right pot, they might not function properly – and that includes turning off at inopportune times.
Since induction cooking entails the use of an electromagnetic field, you will need to use a magnetic pan. Unfortunately, most old cookware – which are usually made with copper or aluminum – do not fall in this category. So, if you are still using hand-me-down pots and pans, you will have to ditch them and buy something that is induction-friendly. Cast-iron cookware is highly recommended. Meanwhile, stainless steel is a hit-and-miss – some products are well-suited with induction cooking, while others are not.
Checking the compatibility of your chosen cookware is a no-brainer. Just bring it close to a magnet. If it attracts the magnet, then it will work on your cooktop.
4. The Cookware Is Not Positioned Properly
Induction stoves are not only particular when it comes to the cookware material – but the positioning as well. If the pan is not in the right placement, then the sensors may not be able to detect it. Likewise, do not place empty pots or pans on the cooktop as well. In both scenarios, the unit will automatically shut off to save energy.
Ideally, the pan should not be hanging over the burner area (or the stove’s heating element). If so, readjust the cookware, ensuring that it is centred. If it still won’t work, consider opting for an appropriately-sized pot. Maybe what you have is either too big or too small for the burner area.
5. There Are Power Supply Issues
Induction cooktops need electricity to create an electromagnetic field. With that said, maybe your unit keeps turning off simply because there are problems with the power supply. In this case, one of two things can happen.
Option 1: There Is No Power Supply to Your Cooktop
There are two possible reasons for this. Either you are currently on a blackout (and you just happen to be unaware of it) or your circuit breaker has tripped, cutting off the power supply to your stove. The breaker is essentially a type of electrical switch. It automatically turns off when:
- there is too much current running along the wires,
- a short circuit occurs, or
- there is an electrical surge.
This mechanism acts as safety protection to your home’s wiring system, preventing fires or damage to your appliances.
To check if your circuit breaker has tripped, go to the breaker box or panel. You may notice that your cooktop’s switch is in between the “on” and “off” positions. If so, all you have to do is reset it. This involves pushing the switch all the way to the “off” position, then bringing it over to the “on” position after a minute or so. Do not forget to unplug everything before resetting the breaker.
If you notice some scorch marks or signs of overheating on your circuit breaker, it might be best to leave the problem to professionals.
Option 2: The Power Connection to the Stove Is Incorrect
If there is nothing wrong with the power supply, then there might be some wiring issues. Check the power connection – it might be loose or plain wrong. The solution to this will vary from model to model, so it is best to consult the instructions manual to ensure that all the wiring and connection are in place. Alternatively, the wires may also be damaged, requiring replacement.
Again, if you are hesitant or unsure about how to deal with electrical issues, you might want to let licensed electricians do the grunt work. The last thing you want is to unwittingly start a fire or get electrocuted.
Related Article: Electric Stove Not Heating Up: Causes and How to Fix
Fix Your Malfunctioning Induction Cooktop in No Time
For many homeowners, an induction stove is a dream come true. After all, it is reliable, efficient, and convenient. On top of that, it is also an extremely intelligent appliance packed with helpful safety and energy-conserving features. In most cases, this built-in system can cause your unit to automatically go off – even during cooking.
Aside from this, there are other possible culprits. Power supply-related problems are, without a doubt, the one that deserves the most attention. You may have to check your cooktop’s circuit breaker and wiring system to ensure that everything is in order. If you are lucky, you may be able to fix the problem yourself.
If you have exhausted all your options or if the issue appears to be more complicated than you initially thought, then it is time to turn the job over to professionals. Any repair company, of course, won’t suffice. Choose only the most reputable companies, and it won’t be long until your cooktop is up and running, allowing you to prep delicious meals for your family. Contact Prime Appliance Repairs today!
