While a glass stovetop is easier to keep clean and maintain than one with coil burners, it can still break. In the event that your glass cooktop breaks or shatters, there are some steps you should take to make sure everyone comes out of the situation safe.
Some minor issues with a glass stovetop can be resolved at home by following the manufacturer’s instructions for care and maintenance of your specific stovetop surface. If they do not specifically speak to the issue you are having, consult an appliance repair service who can safely determine what needs done to resolve the problem safely.
When a glass stovetop breaks it is dangerous for several reasons:
Broken Glass: The most obvious risk is that of shattered glass and cuts from the broken pieces. Be sure to carefully sweep up all shards, using caution not to cut yourself on sharp edges if possible. If you have pets or children, be extra vigilant in your cleanup as they may unknowingly step on or play with some stray piece of glass left over from the initial breakage. Never pick up broken glass with your bare hands. If it needs to be picked up, make sure you always use a damp paper towel when doing so.
Burn Hazard: Another reason you should try and clean up any broken glass immediately is that a mixture of potentially caustic cleaners and exposed electrical elements can result in a burn hazard while you are cleaning up the mess. This is especially true if there had been any sort of chemical cleaner applied to the surface beforehand.
Electrical Shock: The final reason you should try and clean up any broken glass as soon as possible is that an exposed electrical element can lead to a risk of electrical shock if it is plugged in and turned on. Unplug the appliance right away to avoid risk of electrocution.
If your glass stove top does break, here are some steps to take:
- If you think you may have cut yourself on sharp edges after breaking, go ahead and put direct pressure on the area with a clean cloth or towel until bleeding stops or slows significantly.
- If you see any exposed electrical elements (usually at the back of the stovetop behind the broken glass), do not attempt to clean up or move any pieces of broken glass until these have been checked out by a qualified appliance repair technician, as they could present a hazard while they are left exposed.
- Make sure that your oven is unplugged before cleaning it, and do not cook on it in any circumstance to avoid the risk of electrocution. You will need to have the stovetop repaired or replaced before you can safely cook on it again.
When your glass stovetop breaks, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your home from potential injuries. Make sure you have an escape plan in place in case of a fire, and be aware of the dangers associated with broken glass on a stovetop. If you need help repairing or replacing your glass stovetop, our team is here to assist you. Give us a call at 1 877-650-0775 and we will be happy to help you with your stovetop!