Stop
A burner that won't turn off is a fire and burn hazard; shut off power at the breaker immediately and don't use that burner until a professional repairs the switch.
Symptoms
- Burner stays glowing or hot after turning the knob to off
- Indicator light stays on when it should be off
- Only one specific burner is affected
- Knob feels stuck or doesn't turn fully to off
Likely causes
- CommonStuck or failed infinite switch (the burner control switch)This switch regulates power to the burner and can fail in the 'on' position, keeping the element powered.
- CommonFused or welded contacts inside the switch from years of useHigh current over time can weld switch contacts together so they no longer break the circuit.
- PossibleSpilled liquid inside the control knob area affecting the switchLiquid intrusion can cause a switch to malfunction and stay engaged.
- Less commonWiring fault sending continuous power regardless of switch positionA wiring short bypassing the switch is less common but more serious.
What to do
- Turn off the burner's knob fully and confirm it clicks to the off position; if it stays hot, proceed with caution.
- Shut off power to the cooktop at the breaker immediately if a burner won't turn off with the knob.
- Do not touch the affected burner or leave anything on it while it's stuck on.
- Once power is off at the breaker, it's safe to use the cooktop's other functions only after the faulty switch is repaired.
- Do not attempt to open and repair the infinite switch yourself unless experienced with appliance electrical repair.
- Have a technician replace the infinite switch for the affected burner.
- Avoid using that burner at all until the switch has been professionally replaced and tested.
Tools and parts
Oven infinite switchSearch: “cooktop burner infinite switch replacement”
When to call a pro
Have a technician replace the infinite switch for a burner that won't turn off; don't attempt to use or repair it yourself.
Safety
Stop
A burner that won't turn off is a fire and burn hazard; shut off power at the breaker immediately and don't use that burner until a professional repairs the switch.