A beautiful pan can still be invisible to an induction coil. The magnetic base needs enough contact area and must sit over the selected zone.
Water across the touch controls and Control Lock create another pair of simple failures. Cracked glass and repeated breaker trips are not simple failures.
Before you touch it
Checks that can change the diagnosis
- Check Control Lock.
- Remove liquid and utensils from the controls.
- Test the pan base with a magnet.
- Compare the pan diameter with the zone minimum.
- Let an overheated surface cool.
Try this in order
The safe troubleshooting sequence
Turn the zone off
Let both the cookware and glass cool before cleaning.
Clean and dry the controls
Remove every object and wipe with the manufacturer-approved method.
Unlock the panel
Hold the lock control for the period shown in the manual.
Test the cookware
A magnet should grip the flat base. Some stainless-steel pans are not induction compatible.
Match and center the pan
Use a flat magnetic base that meets the zone's minimum diameter.
Reset once if supported
Turn the breaker off for one minute, restore it and test known-compatible cookware.
How you know the simple fix worked
The zone should recognize a centered compatible pan without the no-pan indicator returning.
Technician territory
Stop the job when you see any of these
- Cracked glass
- Burning smell
- A breaker that trips again
- Persistent error with known-compatible cookware
- Any need to lift the cooktop or access wiring
The claim can change the repair decision
Maintenance, a warrantyWritten warrantyA written promise supplied with the appliance sale. Federal law treats it as part of the product bargain rather than a separate paid plan. and a service contractService contractA separately purchased agreement that pays for stated maintenance or repair during a fixed period. Sales pages often call it an extended warranty. are different things.
Incompatible cookware is not a repair claim. A failed induction module may be, so test one known-compatible pan and record the displayed code before service. Federal warranty protections do not make every DIY mistake covered, and a paid service contract may require authorization before a part is replaced.
Common questions
The short answers
Does every stainless-steel pan work on induction?
No. Test the flat base with a magnet and compare its size with the zone requirements.
Can I use an induction cooktop with cracked glass?
No. Stop using the appliance and arrange qualified service.
Instructions checked against primary sources
Official guidance used for this fix
- WhirlpoolInduction cooktop operation checks
- WhirlpoolInduction-compatible cookware
- Federal Trade CommissionWarranty restrictions and damage caused by independent repair
Guide reviewed August 2026. Model construction varies. The owner manual and recall notices for the exact model take priority over a general guide.