Cooktop Repair

Cooktop repair in the Bay Area splits along clear demographic lines: gas cooktops dominate in established neighborhoods like Campbell, Los Gatos, and Saratoga where homes were built with gas infrastructure, while induction cooktops are rapidly gaining ground in Silicon Valley's newer construction and eco-conscious remodels across Mountain View and Palo Alto. Our technicians are fluent in all three fuel types — and the diagnostic approach differs dramatically for each. Gas cooktop repairs in our territory frequently involve igniter electrode corrosion. Bay Area humidity — particularly in cities closer to the coast like Redwood City and San Mateo — accelerates oxidation on the ceramic igniter tips. When an igniter clicks endlessly without producing a flame, it's often surface corrosion preventing proper spark gap, not a failed igniter module. A thorough cleaning solves 40% of these calls without any part replacement. Induction cooktops present a unique diagnostic challenge: they won't heat cookware that isn't ferromagnetic, and many Bay Area homeowners switching from gas don't realize their existing pots and pans aren't induction-compatible. Before calling for an "induction cooktop not working" complaint, test with a refrigerator magnet — if it doesn't stick firmly to the pan bottom, that's your answer. Cooktop quick-check guide: ✓ Gas burner clicks but no flame → clean the igniter electrode with a dry toothbrush; if still clicking, the igniter or spark module needs service. ✓ Electric element heats unevenly → warped element or failing infinite switch. ✓ Cracked glass top → do NOT use until replaced; thermal shock can shatter the entire surface. ✓ Induction zone flashing error → check cookware compatibility first, then suspect coil or control board.