What are three common problems with flattop electric stoves?

Three common problems with flat cooktop stoves include no heat on one or more burners, irregular heat and uneven cooking. The stoves must be unplugged before attempting to diagnose the problems.

If all burners fail to produce heat, the problem may be a faulty cord, damaged wiring or a tripped or blown circuit or fuse inside the range. Owners can replace blown fuses and reset tripped circuits. Single burners that fail to heat often have a loose heating element. When burners heat to only one temperature, the stove usually has a faulty infinite switch. Flat-top stoves tend to cook unevenly if the wrong size or type of pan is used. Flat-bottom, heavy-base pans that are the same size as the burners work best.