How To

How to Choose a Cooktop

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(5 Ratings)

If you enjoy cooking and spend a great deal of time using your cooktop, you'll want to invest in something dependable, convenient and appropriate for your kitchen. A careful analysis of your cooking habits will make selection easier.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Product Brochures
  • Measuring Tapes
  • Consumer Reports
  • Consumer Reports
  • Consumer Reports
  1. Step 1

    Measure the area where your cooktop will be placed. Most cooktops are 30 or 36 inches wide.

  2. Step 2

    Consider the venting needs for your cooktop and how you will accommodate them.

  3. Step 3

    Decide if you want a gas or an electric cooktop.

  4. Step 4

    Select the surface for your cooktop. Possibilities include porcelain-enamel, ceramic-glass or sealed tops that keep spills from going under the cooktop.

  5. Step 5

    Pay special attention to cleaning features. Lift-up cooktops and removable grates and knobs make the cooktop easy to clean.

  6. Step 6

    Look for special features such as a simmering burner, a power burner, burners that adjust heat output to the size of the pan on the burner, grilling capabilities and automatic pilot lights.

  7. Step 7

    Discuss the warranty, what it covers and whether it is included in the cooktop price.

Tips & Warnings
  • Unless you are able to install the cooktop yourself, you may have to pay extra for installation.

Comments  

Helicopter said

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on 4/13/2009 Don't overlook "Induction Cooktops"! The prices have come down in recent years and the benefits are worth every penny."Cooking Green - Induction Cooktops - Cooking Cool!" on www.byoh.com is an excellent article. It's under the "Kitchen 4" category.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Be sure to discuss installation of a backsplash of ceramic tile or metal to diffuse heat when using all burners w/ large pots. If not done a melting/discoloration situation could
occur on back wall.

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