E8 error appears when trying to start a program; cooker remains unheated and unresponsive to most buttons.

Safety: This error involves mains voltage components. Unplug the cooker and do not attempt live testing unless you are trained and equipped. Many users should contact a professional.

• Visual inspection: Remove the bottom cover. Inspect the heating plate wiring and main PCB for burn marks, melted insulation, or a burnt smell.
• Check thermal fuse (if accessible): Some Salton models include a thermal cutoff fuse in series with the heating element. Test it for continuity with a multimeter. If open, it must be replaced with the same rating.
• Test heating element resistance: With the unit unplugged, measure resistance across the main heating element terminals. A very low resistance (near short) or infinite resistance indicates a faulty element.
• Inspect board solder joints: Look at the underside of the PCB for cracked or burnt solder around the triac/relay and power connectors. Reflowing solder is an advanced repair and should be done carefully.

Because of shock and fire risk, replacement of the heating plate or main PCB should generally be performed by a qualified appliance technician.