5 Reasons You Need an Electrician to Install Your Cooktop

Your cooktop is one of the most important appliances in the home and also one of the most dangerous. Along with your heating and cooling system and hot water service, cooktop installation must be done by a fully qualified technician.

That’s not only a sensible option, it’s a legal requirement. Only licensed electricians can install an electric cooktop, while the same applies to gas cooktops only being installed by qualified gas fitters/plumbers. This includes replacing an old cooktop with a new model.

Adding a new cooktop to your kitchen can make an enormous difference. It not only brings your kitchen into the modern era, but also makes meal preparation more enjoyable. It’s a relief to bid farewell to faulty burners that are unreliable and difficult to clean.

But this is definitely not a DIY project. Let’s examine five important reasons why cooktop installation should be carried out by a licensed electrician.

1. Cooktops Must Be Hard-Wired

Most models, including induction-style hobs, will be hard-wired directly into your home’s circuitry because a 240-volt connection is necessary, which is a higher voltage than standard powerpoints.

This kind of electrical work is potentially hazardous and can only be done by a licensed professional. Not only will a qualified electrician have the right tools for the job, they will also be fully covered by public liability insurance.

2. Industry Standards Change

State and industry standards are changing all the time. Professional technicians keep up with the latest changes so that you can be ensured your installation will comply with these standards.

For example, there are strict regulations in Australia on how much space is needed around cooktops. For reasons of using an open flame, these primarily apply to gas cooktops. However, minimum clearances for electrical cooktops are also specified and must be adhered to.

You need to get a compliance certificate for your appliances and only a qualified technician can issue these. Without it, your cooktop installation could be regarded as illegal.

3. You Will Void the Manufacturer’s Warranty

Your new cooktop will come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which will be voided if it is not installed by a qualified electrician. All installations must meet the manufacturer’s specifications.

Installing your cooktop as an amateur means you have no recourse if something goes wrong, whether or not it’s your fault. It’s not worth risking the long-term use of your cooktop for a DIY shortcut.

4. Put Kitchen Safety First

This is the key reason that all cooktop installations must be done by qualified technicians. A poorly installed cooktop will genuinely put you and your family at risk.

Would you want any family member preparing meals on a potentially dangerous cooktop?

There’s more to the installation than the cooktop. Don’t forget you’ll need a range hood and exhaust fan, which also need to comply with industry standards. These are crucial in clearing steam, odours and various cooking fumes from the air.

Without adequate ventilation, you can also unintentionally set off smoke alarms.

5. You’ll Need an Isolator Switch

Your new electric cooktop will need an isolator switch to be installed. While some may be familiar with this safety device, others will be asking themselves: What is an isolator switch?

While your electric cooktop may be hardwired to your mains electrical supply, an isolator switch allows you to cut power to it without having to turn off your electrical system. These switches are mandatory in all new cooktop installations. Some combination gas/electric cooktops may also require an isolator switch.

What Will a Qualified Electrician Do?

With a professional cooktop installation, your electrician will pay attention to all the necessary details. A trained technician will comply with all industry standards and ensure that the new cooktop is safe for you and your family to use.

The service will include:

• Disconnection and disposal of your old unit (if there is one)
• Check the old connections and install new electrical outlets if necessary
• Install new electric cooktop
• Test cooktop and offer a demonstration
• Issue a certificate of compliance

This thorough cooktop installation will mean you get the best out of your new appliance while also giving you the peace of mind that it will be safe to use. That’s more of a relief than saving a few dollars with an illegal DIY project.