Electric Range - Hot Surface Indicator

Electric Radiant Ranges often provide an indicator of some type to indicate that the cooktop surface is hot. This feature might be called a Burner On, Hot Cooktop or Cooktop Hot, Hot, or Hot Surface indicator; however, it's purpose is the same. This indicator lets people know that the cooktop is in use, or recently was used, and the surface is still hot. The glass cooktop retains heat for a period of time, even after the surface units are turned off.
 
There are different types of hot surface indicators depending on the Range. Below are the most common ones found on previous or current models. For model-specific information about your Range's hot surface indicator, the Owner's Manual is your best resource.
 

"Cooktop Hot" Indicator on Display

The Cooktop Hot indicator shows on the display under the Time or Temperature. It comes on when a burner (except the Warming Zone) is turned on and heating. It will stay on for up to 30 minutes after the last burner was turned off.
 
  • Troubleshooting Tip: This indicator is time-based, so the cooktop might feel cool but the Cooktop Hot indicator is still on. This is normal if the last burner used was turned off less than 30 minutes ago.

Single "Burner On" or "Hot Surface" Indicator Light on Control Panel

The Burner On light on the control panel comes on when any burner (except the Warming Zone) is turned on and heating. The amount of time the indicator light stays on depends on the heat setting, pan, etcetera. However, it usually stays on about 20 - 30 minutes after the last burner being used is turned off.
 
  • Troubleshooting Tip: This indicator is sensor-based, so it may not come on immediately when you turn on the burner. It comes on once it senses the glass and burner being used is getting hot. Also, the indicator light goes off once the glass is cool. If every burner is turned off and cool to the touch, but the Burner On indicator is still lit up, then a service technician will be needed.

Multiple "Hot Surface" Lights on Cooktop or Control Panel

On these Ranges, there are four Hot Surface Light(s) on the backsplash or on the cooktop. There is one Hot Surface light for each burner. Like the single burner indicator, the amount of time it stays on depends on the heat setting, pan, etcetera. However, it usually stays on about 20 - 30 minutes after the last burner being used is turned off.
 
  • Troubleshooting Tip: This indicator is sensor-based, so it may not come on immediately when you turn on the burner. It comes on once it senses the glass and burner is getting hot. Also, the indicator light goes off once the glass is cool. If the burner is turned off and cool to the touch, but the Hot Surface indicator for that burner is still On, then a service technician will be needed.

Support

If the burner(s) won't turn off or if the hot surface indicator has not gone off after 45 minutes to 1 hour, disconnect power to the Range at your home's circuit breaker or fuse box and contact service. For repair assistance, please schedule an appointment with GE Appliances Factory Service.