Repair or Replace Your Cooktop? How to Make the Right Decision

Your cooktop is one of the most-used appliances in your kitchen. Whether you’re making pancakes on a lazy Saturday morning or cooking up a big holiday meal, you rely on it more than you probably realize. So, when something goes wrong, a burner won’t light, the glass top cracks, or nothing turns on, you’ve got a big decision to make: do you repair it, or replace it altogether?

The good news is, with a little guidance, you can make this decision confidently and even handle some fixes yourself. This guide walks you through how to assess the issue, what to consider when repairing or replacing, and how to take the DIY route either way.

Start With a Quick Diagnosis

Take a few minutes to figure out what’s actually wrong with your cooktop. Some problems are obvious, like a cracked glass top or a burner that won’t ignite. Others might require a bit of testing.

Gas cooktops might have issues like continuous clicking, weak or no flame, or ignition failure. You might also smell gas, which is something to take seriously. Electric cooktops could have elements that won’t heat, get stuck on one temperature, or indicator lights that won’t turn off. Cracks or discoloration in smooth-top surfaces are also signs of trouble.

Write down what you notice, what works, what doesn’t, and whether the issue is isolated to one burner or affecting the whole appliance. This will help you decide if the fix is something you can do yourself or if it’s time to upgrade.

When Repair Makes Sense

If your cooktop is under ten years old, looks good, and just has a minor issue like a faulty burner or switch, repairing it is likely your best bet. Most manufacturers offer replacement parts online, and many video tutorials can walk you through the process step-by-step.

Small issues like malfunctioning knobs, broken igniters, or single-burner failures are all considered low-cost repairs. You can usually get the part for under a hundred bucks, and the fix takes less than an afternoon.

If the issue is only affecting one burner and everything else works, repairing makes even more sense. As long as the cooktop hasn’t suffered major physical damage, it’s usually more economical to fix it.

When It’s Time to Replace

On the other hand, there are times when putting money into an old cooktop just isn’t worth it.

If your cooktop is over 12 to 15 years old, and you’re noticing multiple issues, like two or more burners not working, persistent short circuits, or damaged wiring, it might be time to consider replacing the entire unit.

Physical damage like a cracked glass surface isn’t just cosmetic; it can affect safety and performance. Unfortunately, glass tops are expensive to replace, often costing close to what you’d pay for a new unit. So in those cases, replacement is usually more practical.

Also, if your cooktop is part of a larger kitchen upgrade, it makes sense to replace it with something more modern that fits your new aesthetic or cooking style. Maybe you’re moving from electric to gas, or from gas to induction, either way, this can be a good time to start fresh.

Another sign it’s time to replace is when parts are no longer available. If your cooktop is an older model and the manufacturer no longer supports it, finding a fix becomes nearly impossible.

Total Cost: Repair vs. Replace

Think about the total investment, not just in dollars but also in time and effort.

If a repair will cost under $150, and the unit still has a lot of life left in it, fixing it yourself is usually a no-brainer. But if you’re pushing the $300 mark or higher, and the cooktop is older or already unreliable, replacement may offer more value.

You also have to consider your time and skill. If you enjoy DIY work, a couple of hours on a Saturday afternoon fixing a cooktop is no big deal. But if the repair involves electrical testing, working with gas, or specialized tools, and you’re not comfortable with that, replacing might be the smoother option.

The good news is, both options can be cost-effective if you plan carefully. A simple repair can extend your cooktop’s life by years, while a thoughtful replacement can bring you better performance, energy savings, and peace of mind.

Where To Find Us 

Deciding whether to repair or replace your cooktop doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little time and the right approach, you can make the choice that works best for your home, your budget, and your skillset.

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

Stay connected with the latest DIY tips, tutorial videos, and repair guides by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We love hearing about your repair stories and successes. If you need more help or want personalized guidance, feel free to reach out. We’re ready to help you take on your next project with confidence!

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.