Induction Hob Not Detecting Pan: Causes, Checks & Fixes

Isolate electrical power and stop immediately if gas is smelled

Ovens and hobs combine mains electricity, high temperatures and, on gas appliances, combustible fuel. Do not dismantle while energised or continue using an appliance that trips, sparks, smells burnt or leaks gas.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with these

Incompatible cookware The base may not contain enough magnetic material.

Pan too small or off-centre The coil may not detect sufficient coverage.

Warped or damaged base Poor contact can prevent stable detection.

Sensor or power-module fault The zone may not recognise any suitable pan.

◫ Symptom variations Match the exact heating, ignition or control pattern. ⌄

Pan symbol flashes
Zone switches off after seconds
One pan works but another does not
Only one zone fails
Hob clicks but does not heat

✓ Quick checks Simple checks before removing panels. ⌄

Note which function or zone fails.
Check the appliance lock, timer and selected mode.
Confirm the cooker isolator and breaker are on.
Look for visible element, seal or burner damage.
Isolate before touching internal parts.

If the issue is a setting or obstruction: operation should return immediately.

If there is tripping, gas smell or internal failure: stop and call the appropriate engineer.

1 Step 1 — Test the pan with a magnet Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

A magnet should stick firmly to the base.

Success looks like: Compatibility is confirmed.

Escalate when: Weak attraction suggests unsuitable cookware.

2 Step 2 — Reposition and resize the pan Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Centre it over the zone and use a suitable base diameter.

Success looks like: The hob detects the pan.

Escalate when: Failure with several correct pans suggests a hob fault.

3 Step 3 — Clean and dry both surfaces Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Remove moisture, grease and debris from the hob and pan base.

Success looks like: Detection becomes stable.

Escalate when: A persistent zone-specific fault needs service.

⌁ Common causes explained Why oven and hob faults develop. ⌄

An induction hob may not detect cookware because the pan is not magnetic, is too small, is badly positioned, has a warped base or the hob sensor or control module is faulty.

The affected function is the strongest clue. A single failed mode points toward one element, ring or switch, while a total loss of operation suggests supply, control or safety-device faults.

⌘ Advanced diagnostics Engineer checks and repair work. ⌄

Test pan-detection coil.
Inspect power module.
Check zone temperature sensor.
Run manufacturer diagnostics.
Inspect wiring and control board.

▣ Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄

Induction coil
Power module
Temperature sensor
Control board
Cooling fan

! When to call an appliance engineer Conditions that should end basic troubleshooting. ⌄

The oven or hob trips the electrics.
There is a gas smell or unstable flame.
Internal electrical testing is required.
The appliance must be dismantled.
Controls, elements or wiring show heat damage.
The fault returns after basic checks.

? Frequently asked questions Common oven and hob questions. ⌄

Can one failed element stop the whole oven?

It depends on the model. Often one cooking mode fails while others still work.

Why does an oven trip only when hot?

Element insulation can break down as it heats, causing leakage to earth.

What should I do if I smell gas?

Turn off the appliance, avoid sparks or switches, ventilate the area and contact the appropriate gas emergency service or registered engineer.