Confirm cookware compatibility and size
Look for the cookware maker’s induction-compatible marking and check the cooktop’s minimum base dimensions. A large pan can still have a small compatible disc underneath. The advertised rim diameter is not always the dimension the zone needs to detect.
A magnet sticking to the base can be a useful clue about the material, but it does not guarantee that the pan meets every requirement of the cooktop. A curved, damaged or uneven base can also affect contact and performance. Do not use an adaptor plate unless the appliance manufacturer expressly permits it.
Use existing comparisons rather than repeated testing
Note whether a pan that previously worked is now rejected and whether other compatible pans have shown the same symptom during normal cooking. One new pan failing across zones suggests a different pattern from several proven pans failing on one zone. Report those observations without running prolonged empty-pan tests.
On an undamaged, cool surface, centre suitable cookware within the marked area and check the model’s instructions for linked or flexible zones. Remove utensils or cloths from the controls. Never move a hot pan around just to find a position that suppresses a warning.
When cookware checks do not explain detection failure, provide the pan and zone details through our cooktop repair enquiry service.
Know when the symptom is no longer about the pan
If an established compatible pan is repeatedly rejected, record the exact symbol or code, zone and whether detection fails immediately or after cooking begins. Temperature protection, sensing, power and control conditions may be relevant, but a code’s meaning must be checked against the model rather than a generic list.
Do not open the cooktop, probe its wiring or defeat a protection feature. Cracked glass, a burning smell, uncontrolled heating or electrical trips require stopping use. Include recent installation work or a spill in the enquiry, and leave diagnosis and component selection to an appropriate repairer.