True Induction cooktops are well-made, reliable appliances designed to provide efficient and convenient cooking. However, like any kitchen appliance, error codes may occasionally appear. Fortunately, many of these codes can be resolved with a few simple troubleshooting steps.
If your True Induction cooktop displays Error Code - - - (three dashes), it means the cooktop is not detecting cookware. This commonly happens when no pot or pan is placed on the cooking surface. However, if the code appears while cookware is present, there are a few things you can check.
Step 1: Reset Your True Induction Cooktop
The first step you should always take when encountering an error code is to reset your cooktop. A simple reset may resolve the issue without requiring additional troubleshooting.
To reset your True Induction cooktop:
- Disconnect the cooktop from its power source.
- Wait 10 minutes while the cooktop remains disconnected.
- Reconnect the cooktop to its power source and check whether the error code has disappeared.
Resetting your cooktop may clear the error code and restore normal operation. If Error Code - - - continues to appear, proceed with the following troubleshooting steps.
Step 2: Check Your Cookware Compatibility
Induction cooktops use magnetic-based technology to generate heat directly within compatible cookware rather than relying on traditional heating elements. This technology requires ferrous (magnetic) metal cookware to operate. If your pots or pans are not made with magnetic materials, the cooktop will not detect them.
The easiest way to determine whether your cookware is induction compatible is by performing a simple magnet test.
- Grab a magnet and place it against the bottom of your pot or pan. True Induction cooktops come with a magnet for testing cookware, but any standard magnet will work.
- If the magnet sticks firmly to the bottom, your cookware should be compatible with induction cooking.
- If the magnet does not stick, your cookware is not induction compatible and will need to be replaced.
You can also check your cookware's original packaging for the induction-compatible symbol.
Step 3: Make Sure Your Cookware Meets the Size Requirements
If your cookware passes the magnet test but Error Code - - - continues to appear, make sure it meets the recommended cookware requirements.
For optimal performance, True Induction recommends cookware with:
- A flat bottom that sits evenly on the cooking surface.
- A diameter between 4.5 and 10 inches for proper detection.
- A magnetic base made from ferrous metal.
Make sure your cookware is properly centered on the cooking zone. Cookware that is too small or has an uneven bottom may not be detected correctly.
What if the Error Code Still Appears?
If you have reset your cooktop and confirmed that your cookware is compatible and meets the recommended requirements, but Error Code - - - still appears, there may be an issue with the cookware detection sensor.
Fortunately, the sensor can be replaced without replacing the entire cooktop.
Before purchasing a replacement sensor, call True Induction at 1-877-862-7049 so our team can properly diagnose the issue and confirm whether a replacement is necessary. We can assist you with ordering the correct sensor, or you can visit DIYPartsandMore.com to purchase the replacement part.
How to Replace Your True Induction Cooktop Sensor
Once you have the correct replacement sensor, follow these steps to replace it.
IMPORTANT: Make sure your cooktop is completely disconnected from its power source before replacing any parts. Allow it to cool completely. Electrical repairs should be performed by a qualified person.
- Remove the back cover: Flip the cooktop over onto a flat, stable surface. Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove only the outer edge screws. Most True Induction cooktops have 16 screws, except single-burner models. Carefully lift and remove the back cover.
- Disconnect the sensor: Unscrew the burner plate and gently unplug the sensor from the main board. Avoid pulling on the wires; instead, carefully pull from the plug to prevent damage.
- Replace the sensor: Gently remove the existing sensor from the top of the burner.
- Insert the replacement sensor by carefully pushing and twisting it into place.
- Reconnect the sensor: Connect the replacement sensor to the main board, align the burner plate, and secure it using the screws you removed earlier.
- Apply thermal paste: Before closing the cooktop, apply thermal paste to the sensor as demonstrated in the instructional video.
- Reassemble the cooktop: Carefully close the back cover and reinstall the outer edge screws. Once everything is securely reassembled, the sensor replacement is complete.
For a visual demonstration, watch our step-by-step instructional video:
Watch How to Replace a True Induction Cooktop Sensor
Conclusion
Seeing Error Code - - - on your True Induction cooktop does not necessarily mean there is a major problem. Always start by resetting your cooktop for 10 minutes, then check your cookware's magnetic compatibility, size, and placement if the error persists.
If the error continues to appear after troubleshooting, a faulty sensor may be responsible. Contact True Induction at 1-877-862-7049 for assistance with diagnosing the problem and finding the right replacement part so you can get back to cooking with confidence.