Elevate Your Cooking Experience: The Ultimate Cooktop Buying Guide

Cooking is an art, and choosing the perfect cooktop can greatly improve your cooking experience. When shopping for a cooktop, you'll come across different options, including induction, gas, and electric cooktops. In this blog, we will go over the ultimate cooktop buying guide, ensuring you have the knowledge to make the right decision. We'll also highlight the unique benefits and features of each cooktop type and present some featured cooktops for sale at Mountain High Appliances.

Cooktop Buying Guide

From measuring your space to understanding different fuel types, our guide covers the essential factors you must consider before buying your dream cooktop. Explore the various cooking zones, power levels, safety features, and cookware compatibility, as well as the importance of warranties and customer support.

Measure Your Space

Before exploring the world of cooktops, measure the available space in your kitchen. Induction, gas, and electric cooktops come in various sizes, so ensure you select one that fits perfectly into your countertop space.

Understanding Fuel Type

One of the most essential factors to consider when selecting a stovetop is the fuel type used. Each fuel type offers unique advantages and features, catering to different cooking preferences and needs. Let's explore the three main fuel types available for cooktops:

• Induction
What is an induction cooktop? An induction cooktop is a modern and innovative option that uses electromagnetic technology to directly heat the cookware. Unlike traditional gas or electric cooktops that rely on direct heat transfer, induction cooktops create an electromagnetic field that induces a current in the cookware, generating heat within the pots or pans themselves. The cooktop surface remains cool during operation, making it safe and energy-efficient. Induction cooktops offer remarkable speed, efficiency, and precise temperature control, making them a top choice for professional chefs and home cooks seeking advanced technology and ease of use.

• Electric:
Electric cooktops use heating elements located beneath a smooth glass-ceramic surface to transfer heat to the cookware placed on top. Electric cooktops are generally more affordable than induction cooktops and offer a wide range of options to fit various budgets.

• Gas:
Gas cooktops provide a classic and familiar cooking experience, using an open flame to heat the cookware directly. They offer immediate and precise heat adjustments, providing excellent control over the cooking process.

Number of Cooking Zones

Consider how many cooking zones you require based on your typical cooking needs. Cooktops come with different numbers of cooking zones, so choose one that suits your culinary habits.

Power Levels and Settings

Look for a cooktop with a range of power levels and heat settings. Having precise control over the temperature allows for versatile cooking options, whether you're simmering, boiling, or sautéing.

Safety Features

Check for safety features such as child lock, pan detection, and overheating protection. These features will provide peace of mind, especially if you have young children in the house.

Easy-to-Use Controls

Opt for cooktops with user-friendly controls. Induction cooktops often feature intuitive touch controls, while gas cooktops may have traditional knobs for easy adjustment. Electric cooktops may come with smooth touch controls or coil elements.

Compatibility with Cookware

For induction cooktops, ensure that your cookware is compatible with magnetic technology. Only pots and pans made of ferrous materials, such as cast iron and stainless steel, will work on induction surfaces. Gas and electric cooktops have broader compatibility with various cookware materials.

Warranty and Customer Support

Always check the warranty and customer support provided by the manufacturer. A reliable warranty ensures that you are covered in case of any defects or issues with your cooktop.

Price

Cooktops are available at various price points, and the cost may vary depending on the brand, features, and fuel type. Set a budget that aligns with your needs and preferences, and explore options that offer the best value for your investment. While induction cooktops may have a higher initial cost due to their advanced technology, they often provide long-term energy savings that can offset the initial expense. Gas and electric cooktops, on the other hand, may offer more budget-friendly options with different features to suit various budgets.

What Type of Cooktop Should I Buy?

When purchasing a cooktop, it is essential to consider the unique advantages that each type offers. Whether you choose an induction, gas, or electric cooktop, understanding their advantages will help you make an informed decision that suits your cooking style.

Advantages of Induction Cooktops:

1. Speed and Efficiency
One of the most significant advantages of induction cooktops is their remarkable speed and efficiency. They can heat up significantly faster than traditional cooktops, which means reduced cooking times. The instant response allows for quick adjustments to the temperature, providing greater control over the cooking process.

2. Safety Features
Induction stovetops prioritize safety, making them an ideal choice for families with children. Since the cooktop surface remains relatively cool during operation, the risk of accidental burns is minimized. Additionally, most induction stovetops have built-in safety features like automatic shut-off and pan detection, ensuring worry-free cooking.

3. Easy to Clean
Cleaning up after cooking becomes a breeze with induction cooktops. As the cooking surface remains cool, spills and splatters are less likely to stick. The flat and smooth surface also means no more scrubbing hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.

4. Energy Efficiency
Induction cooktops are highly energy-efficient as they only heat the cookware and not the surrounding surface. This focused heating reduces energy waste and results in lower electricity bills compared to conventional cooktops.

Featured Induction Stovetops:

Our Pick: Wolf 30" Transitional Framed Induction Cooktop (CI304TFS)

Why We Love It: Comes in various sizes. The Bridge function combines two induction zones into a larger area, allowing you to use an induction-compatible griddle and open roaster.

Our Pick: Our Pick:Jennair Oblivion 36" Induction Cooktop (JIC4536KB)

Why We Love It: Comes in various sizes. the precision of a gas cooktop and the minimalist appeal of sleek glass.

Our Pick: Thermador Freedom® Induction Cooktop (CIT30YWBB)

Why We Love It: Place the pan anywhere on the surface, and the power level will automatically adjust.

Our Pick: Our Pick: Monogram Monogram 30" Induction Cooktop (ZHU30RSPSS)

Why We Love It: Blends into lighter countertop surfaces. Enjoy precise heating with a cool-to-the-touch surface that's easy to clean.

Advantages of Electric Cooktops:

1. Affordable and Accessible
Electric cooktops are generally more affordable than induction cooktops and offer a wide range of options to fit various budgets.

2. Easy to Clean
Smoothtop electric cooktops, in particular, feature a flat, glass-ceramic surface that is easy to clean. Spills and splatters can be wiped away with a cloth once the surface has cooled down.

3. Compatibility with Cookware
Electric cooktops can work with a variety of cookware materials, making them a versatile choice for most households.

4. Low Maintenance
Unlike gas cooktops, electric cooktops don't have open flames or grates, which means less maintenance and cleaning involved.

Featured Electric Stovetops:

Our Pick: Jennair 36" Oblivion Glass Electric Radiant Downdraft Cooktop (JED4536KB)

Why We Love It: The JX3™ downdraft ventilation system efficiently clears the air without the need for a hood.

Our Pick: Kitchenaid 36" Electric Downdraft Cooktop with 5 Elements (KCED606GSS)

Why We Love It: Even-Heat™ Technology ensures consistent power and provides various simmer settings.

Our Pick: Cafe Appliances Caf(eback)™ 36" Touch-Control Electric Cooktop (CEP90362TSS)

Why We Love It: Select from 19 heat settings with a simple swipe for precise control on this easy-to-clean electric cooktop.

Our Pick: Whirlpool 30-inch Electric Ceramic Glass Cooktop with Dual Radiant Element (WCE55US0HB)

Why We Love It: Gain extra flexibility during installation with compatibility for 30 & 40 amps, and while cooking with the FlexHeat™ Dual Radiant Element.

Advantages of Gas Cooktops:

1. Precise Heat Control
Gas cooktops offer immediate and precise heat adjustments. When you turn the knob, the flame instantly responds, allowing you to fine-tune the temperature to your liking. This level of control is particularly useful for tasks like searing, simmering, or achieving the perfect caramelization.

2. Familiarity and Visual Cue
Many chefs and home cooks appreciate the visual cue of the flame on gas cooktops. The flame's intensity and position give a clear indication of the heat level, making it easier to gauge the cooking process.

3. Versatility of Cookware
Gas cooktops can work with a wide variety of cookware materials, including stainless steel, copper, aluminum, cast iron, and non-magnetic options. You don't need to worry about specific cookware compatibility.

4. Power Outage Resilience
Gas cooktops can still function during power outages, making them a reliable cooking option when electricity is unavailable. This can be particularly beneficial in emergency situations.

Featured Gas Stovetops:

Our Pick: Our Pick: Cafe Appliances Caf(eback)™ 36" Commercial-Style Gas Rangetop (CGU366P2TS1)

Why We Love It: The Multi-Ring gas Burner is a versatile option that provides various flame sizes on a single burner, giving you the convenience of multiple burners in one.

Our Pick:GE Profile 30" Built-In Gas Downdraft Cooktop (GP9830SRSS)

Why We Love It: The powerful downdraft exhaust system efficiently removes smoke and steam from the kitchen. The cooking surface is sleek and simple to clean.

Our Pick: Kitchenaid 36" 5 Burner Gas Downdraft Cooktop (KCGD506GSS)

Why We Love It: The 5K BTU Even-Heat™ Simmer Burner provides enhanced control over the flame at the lowest setting, ensuring precise simmering and melting with the help of a diffuser plate.

Our Pick: Our Pick: Jennair 30" JX3™ Gas Downdraft Cooktop (JGD3430G)

Why We Love It: Includes four sealed burners, featuring a 17,000 BTU ultra-high output burner. The impressive JX3™ downdraft ventilation system swiftly clears the air without a hood.

Elevate Your Cooking Experience Today

Whether you prefer the innovative technology of induction cooktops, the precise control of gas cooktops, or the sleek simplicity of electric cooktops, each option brings unique benefits to enhance your cooking experience.

At Mountain High Appliances, we offer a wide selection of induction, gas, and electric cooktops. We also provide other cooking appliances, such as ovens, ranges, microwaves, hoods, cooking accessories, and other small appliances, to cater to your specific needs. Check out our online catalog or visit us at one of our stores in Denver, Colorado Springs, Glenwood Springs, Littleton, or Louisville, Colorado. Our cooktop experts at Mountain High Appliances are ready to help you find the perfect cooktop that fits your needs!

Commonly Asked Questions About Buying a Stovetop

Are induction cooktops safe to use?

Absolutely! They are one of the safest options available. Since they heat the cookware directly, the surface remains cool to the touch, reducing the risk of burns or accidents. Additionally, most of them come with safety features like automatic shut-off and pan detection.

What is the advantage of electric cooktops?

Electric cooktops are generally more affordable, easy to clean, and compatible with various cookware materials.

Do I need special cookware for induction cooktops?

Yes, induction cooktops require specific cookware made of ferrous materials such as cast iron or stainless steel. Aluminum or copper cookware will not work on induction cooktops unless they have a magnetic base.

Are induction cooktops energy-efficient?

Yes, induction cooktops are highly energy-efficient. They only heat the cookware and not the surrounding surface, minimizing energy waste. This focused heating results in lower electricity bills compared to conventional cooktops.

How do I clean and maintain cooktops?

Induction and smoothtop electric cooktops have flat, easy-to-clean surfaces. Gas cooktops may require more maintenance due to grates and burners.