Avanti Electric Cooktop Isn't Working: Fix It Now

 

If your Avanti electric cooktop isn't working, it can disrupt your daily routine and meal preparation. Whether it’s a burner that won’t heat or the entire unit failing to power on, understanding the root cause is key to a quick fix. Common issues include faulty switches, blown fuses, or damaged heating elements. Fortunately, many problems can be resolved with basic troubleshooting or by replacing worn-out components using genuine Avanti parts. Before calling for professional repair, try these practical steps to diagnose and resolve the issue, potentially saving time and money while restoring your cooktop’s performance.

Common Causes for an Avanti Electric Cooktop Not Working and Their Fixes

Avanti electric cooktops are popular in compact spaces, but they can develop issues like non-heating burners or inconsistent performance. Understanding common problems and their fixes can help you quickly restore functionality without the need for costly professional repairs.

Cooktop Won’t Turn On

Cause:
If your Avanti cooktop isn’t turning on at all, the most likely culprits are a power supply issue or a faulty internal connection. These cooktops rely on a dedicated electrical circuit, and any interruption—such as a tripped breaker or a damaged power cord—can prevent them from powering up.

Fixes:

• Check the Power Source: Ensure the unit is plugged in securely and the outlet is functioning by testing it with another device.

• Inspect the Circuit Breaker: Locate your electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers.

• Examine the Power Cord: Look for visible damage or exposed wires. Replace the cord if necessary, using a compatible Avanti parts.

• Test the Outlet Voltage: Use a multimeter to verify it delivers 220–240V. Low or no voltage suggests an electrical problem that may need an electrician.

Individual Burner Not Heating

Cause:
A single burner not working is typically due to a damaged heating element, a loose connection, or a faulty switch that regulates the temperature. With electric cooktops, the coils or heating elements can degrade over time or lose contact with the internal wiring.

Fixes:

• Inspect the Heating Element: Turn off power to the cooktop. Remove the element and visually inspect for cracks, burns, or breaks.

• Test for Continuity: Use a multimeter to test the element. If there's no continuity, replace it.

• Check the Burner Terminal Block: A melted or loose connection here can prevent power delivery. Replace if damaged.

• Replace the Infinite Switch: If the element and wiring are intact, the infinite switch (which controls the temperature) may be faulty.

All Burners Not Heating

Cause:
When none of the burners are heating, but the cooktop receives power, the issue likely lies in the internal wiring, control board, or thermal limiter. This could also result from a failed main power terminal.

Fixes:

• Check the Wiring Harness: Disconnect power and inspect all internal wiring for signs of burning, disconnection, or corrosion.

• Test the Thermal Limiter: This safety device can shut off power to prevent overheating. If it's defective, it might stop all burners from working.

• Replace the Control Board: If the board doesn’t send power to the elements, it will need replacement. Consult Avanti’s service manual or a certified technician.

Burner Heats Unevenly or Too Slowly

Cause:
An uneven or slow-heating burner may be due to a partially damaged element, a poor connection, or buildup on the cooktop surface that interferes with heat transfer.

Fixes:

• Clean the Cooktop Surface: Remove any residue, spills, or stains with a non-abrasive cleaner to ensure good heat contact.

• Inspect and Test the Heating Coil: Even if it glows, a partially damaged coil may not distribute heat evenly—test with a multimeter and replace if resistance is abnormal.

• Tighten the Element Connection: Loose wiring under the burner may reduce efficiency.

Cooktop Indicator Light Not Working

Cause:
If the indicator light stays off even when the burners are on, the bulb may be burnt out or the indicator circuit might be faulty.

Fixes:

• Test the Light Bulb or LED: Use a multimeter to check continuity. If defective, replace with a matching component.

• Check the Control Switch: If the switch doesn’t send power to the indicator, replacing it may resolve the issue.

Cooktop Trips Circuit Breaker

Cause:
Frequent tripping may be caused by a short circuit in the cooktop, a damaged power cord, or internal moisture from a spill.

Fixes:

• Unplug the Unit Immediately: Continued use can be hazardous.

• Inspect Internal Components: Look for signs of burned wires, arcing, or moisture.

• Dry the Cooktop Thoroughly: Leave it unplugged for 24–48 hours to allow any internal moisture to evaporate.

• Replace Damaged Wiring or Heating Elements: Faulty components can cause short circuits that overload the breaker.

Control Knobs Not Responding Properly

Cause:
Over time, knobs can wear out or detach from the switch shaft. In some cases, the underlying control switch (infinite switch) may be malfunctioning.

Fixes:

• Inspect the Knobs: Ensure they’re not cracked or stripped. Replace with OEM Avanti parts if worn.

• Test the Control Switch: If turning the knob has no effect on burner activity, the infinite switch may need replacement.

• Check Alignment: Ensure knobs are properly seated on the shaft.

Burners Stay On After Being Turned Off

Cause:
If burners stay hot even after switching them off, the control switch may be stuck or the thermostat sensor is malfunctioning.

Fixes:

• Turn Off Power Immediately: This could be a fire hazard.

• Replace the Infinite Switch: This is the most common fix, as it's responsible for regulating power to the burner.

• Inspect Wiring for Short Circuits: Faulty wiring can cause continuous current flow to elements.

Unusual Odors or Smoke

Cause:
Burning smells or visible smoke can be alarming. These are often caused by food residue burning on the element or, in worse cases, internal wiring damage.

Fixes:

• Clean the Elements and Drip Pans: Remove burnt-on debris that may be causing smoke.

• Check Wiring Insulation: Burnt wiring should be replaced immediately by using genuine Avanti parts.

• Do Not Use the Cooktop Until Fully Inspected and Repaired: Avoid potential fire hazards.

Digital Touch Controls Not Responding (If Equipped)

Cause:
Some advanced Avanti cooktops feature digital or touch controls. If these become unresponsive, it could be due to a control board malfunction, touchpad failure, or power surge damage.

Fixes:

• Power Cycle the Cooktop: Turn it off at the breaker for 1–2 minutes and turn it back on.

• Clean the Touchpad: Dirt or grease buildup can affect sensitivity.

• Inspect the Control Board: Replace if unresponsive despite cleaning and rebooting.

Cooktop Makes Clicking or Buzzing Noises

Cause:
Unusual clicking or buzzing sounds can be caused by loose components, arcing electrical connections, or a failing infinite switch. In induction models, it may also be due to incompatible cookware.

Fixes:

• Tighten any Loose Screws or Parts: Especially around the control panel and burner elements.

• Inspect the Infinite Switch and Relays: A faulty switch can generate arcing or buzzing.

• Use Proper Cookware: For induction models, use flat-bottomed, magnetic cookware to avoid noise from vibrations.

Fixing your Avanti electric cooktop doesn’t always require a costly repair or replacement. By identifying common issues such as faulty burners, power supply problems, or malfunctioning switches, you can often restore functionality with simple troubleshooting steps. Using genuine Avanti parts ensures compatibility and long-term reliability when replacements are necessary. Always follow safety precautions and consult your user manual before attempting any fixes. If problems persist, contacting a certified technician may be the best solution. With the right approach, you can quickly get your cooktop back in working order and return to hassle-free cooking in no time.

Written by Allen Rode for HnKParts, a trusted provider of high-quality appliance parts, offering a wide range of Avanti parts, stove parts, and more.