A cooker’s griddle or griddle is the main part that heats pans to very high temperatures to promote cooking.
With time and use, the cooker can break down, especially with one or more hotplates becoming faulty.
You can change the heating plate if you find that:
- The plate does not heat up
- The plate does not heat up enough
- The plate dissipates the same heat for all settings at the cooker knob.
- The hob is too rusty
Highly visible and easily accessible, the hot plates, also called cooking plates, are located above the surface of the stove oven.
Whether it’s due to malfunction, age, or a desire for an upgrade, changing the hotplate on a cooker is a task that may arise for any homeowner. Although the specifics can vary depending on the model of your cooker, the following guide provides a general overview of how to replace a cooker’s hotplate.
Disclaimer: This task involves electrical components and can carry a risk of electric shock if not performed correctly. If you feel unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, consider hiring a professional.
Tools You Might Need
- Screwdriver (usually a Philips)
- New hotplate (ensure it’s compatible with your cooker model)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Safety First
Ensure that the cooker is completely off and unplugged from the power source. This step is essential for your safety.
Step 2: Access the Cooker’s Back
Depending on your cooker’s design, you might need to move it away from the wall to access the back panel.
Step 3: Remove the Back Cover
Using your screwdriver, unscrew and remove the back cover of the cooker. This will give you access to the cooker’s wiring.
Step 4: Remove the Hotplate
Each hotplate will be connected to the cooker with screws and wired for power. Take a photo or make a diagram of the current wiring setup before disconnecting anything. This will be helpful when connecting the new hotplate. Then, using your screwdriver, carefully unscrew the hotplate and gently pull the wiring off the connectors.
Step 5: Connect the New Hotplate
Now, grab your new hotplate. Attach the wiring to the new hotplate, referring to the photo or diagram you took earlier to ensure correct placement. Then, secure the hotplate in the cooker with the screws.
Step 6: Replace the Back Cover
With the new hotplate properly installed and connected, replace the back cover of the cooker. Secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
Step 7: Test the New Hotplate
Plug the cooker back into the power source. Turn on the cooker and test the new hotplate to ensure it’s working correctly.
In conclusion, changing the hotplate of a cooker can be a relatively straightforward task if you’re comfortable handling electrical appliances and have a bit of DIY spirit. Always ensure you purchase a hotplate compatible with your specific cooker model and remember to prioritize safety by unplugging the cooker before you start. However, if you have any doubts or concerns, don’t hesitate to call in a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
