Hot plates are yesterday's microwaves. They are still handy for heating up a pot or skillet of food when a stove isn't handy or necessary. Let's check in with the Fix-It Club for info on repairing a hot plate.

How Does It Work?

A hot plate is simply an electric heating element with temperature controls.

A hot plate is a small electric appliance for cooking in a small space. The main parts of a hot plate are the heating element(s) and one or more devices to regulate the heat. Some hot plates have a calibrated thermostat while others simply have an on-off switch. 

What Can Go Wrong?

A burned-out heating element is one of the most common problems with hot plates. The electrical cord or the thermostat may be faulty. Internal wiring can be damaged. Contacts may have become fused.

Fix-It Tip

If the cord is detachable, always plug one end firmly into the hot plate before plugging the other end into the wall outlet.