Home Garden

My Whirlpool Touch Stove Doesn't Switch On

When you use your stove to cook on a regular basis, it can be frustrating when the appliance doesn't turn on when you need to use it. If you own a Whirlpool Touch cooktop, you can likely resolve the switch problem yourself without having to contact a repair technician.
  1. Check Electrical Connection

    • Your Whirlpool Touch stove must properly plug into a grounded outlet to operate. If it won't turn on, check that the plug is secure in the outlet. You can test the outlet for power by plugging in a small lamp to see if it lights. If the outlet has no power, check your circuit breaker or fuse box to see if the breaker needs to be reset or a fuse needs to be replaced. If the stove outlet still doesn't have power, contact a licensed electrician for assistance.

    Check Wiring

    • If the stove’s outlet has power but won't turn on, its wiring may not have completed properly. Your GE Touch stove’s installation instructions outline the correct wiring, though you can have a professional installer handle the task if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself. If you suspect that a wiring error was made during installation, contact the installer or dealer to correct the problem.

    Listen for Beeping

    • If your Touch stove doesn't turn on, listen for beeping from the cooktop. The stove emits a beeping sound when debris is on the surface of the control panel and won't turn on until the panel is clean. Wipe away debris with a soft cloth; use warm, soapy water for stubborn stains. GE doesn't recommend abrasive cleansers or steel wool to clean the control panel surface because it may damage the controls.

    Check Controls

    • If your GE Touch stove has adequate power, is wired properly and not emitting a beeping sound, but still won't turn on, check its controls to ensure they are set properly. When adjusting the control knob to turn on the stovetop, push in the knob to set the controls properly. In addition, check that you haven't inadvertently engaged the cooktop lockout feature, which is usually activated by the All Off/Lock setting on most models. When the setting is engaged, it turns off the downdraft exhaust system and locks the stovetop so it cannot be turned on with the touch controls. You can tell if the lockout setting is in use if the All Off/Lock icon on the control panel glows red. To turn off the setting, press the lockout key and hold it for three seconds.