At a Glance:
Benefits of Buying an Electric Cooktop
Cons of Buying an Electric Cooktop
Electric Cooktops vs. Gas Cooktops vs. Induction Cooktops
7 Best Electric Cooktops for Your Kitchen
Innovative features, precise temperature controls, and sleek design are all factors that make electric cooktops a highly-rated choice among homeowners. Electric cooktops are a flexible alternative to traditional ranges, available in various sizes and finishes. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these environmentally friendly appliances.
Discover the Latest Electric Cooktops
Learn more about electric cooktop models from today's best brands.
Electric CooktopsWhat is an Electric Cooktop?
Electric cooktops use radiant heat. An electrical current flows through metal coils placed beneath a glass or ceramic surface. Heat is transferred through the surface to get pots and pans hot. Electric cooktops are popular among homeowners because they are affordable, energy-efficient, and easy to use.
Benefits of Buying an Electric Cooktop
There are several reasons why homeowners choose electric cooktops over other types of stoves.
✅ No Toxic Fumes. Unlike gas stoves that produce toxic fumes, electric cooktops do not pollute kitchen air.
✅ Affordable. Electric cooktops are the least expensive option for cooking appliances.
✅ Energy Efficient. Some electric cooktops are Energy-Star rated. Residual heat on the glass or ceramic cooking surface keeps pans warm longer, reducing excessive energy use.
✅ Easy to Install. Electric cooktops do not have challenging installation requirements. As a result, they are easy to set up.
✅ Easy to Use. Operating an electric cooktop is extremely simple. Turn the knob of the burner you want to cook on and go!
✅ Easy to Clean. The ceramic and glass cooking surfaces can be cleaned with soap and warm water.
Cons of Buying an Electric Cooktop
One drawback to electric cooktops is uneven heat distribution. Electric coils or elements take a while to get to temperature and retain heat after being turned off. As a result, even a low heat setting might be too hot for simmering. Since the ceramic cooking surface stays hot well after you are done cooking, it could potentially be a safety hazard for young children. Additionally, glass-ceramic electric cooktops are prone to scratches and can be damaged by abrasive cleaning materials.
Electric Cooktops vs. Gas Cooktops vs. Induction Cooktops
If you are shopping for a new cooktop, there are three options to choose from: electric, gas, and induction. Each of these appliances has different benefits, so before making a decision, consider the pros and cons of each.
Cost
Electric cooktops are the most affordable option. Electric stoves are the best choice if you are shopping on a budget and looking for a low-cost installation option.
Cooking
➤ Gas cooktops heat up quickly and are known for their rapid response to temperature adjustments. They offer precise temperature control, allowing you to adjust the flame to achieve the exact heat level you need for various cooking techniques. Gas burners distribute heat evenly across the bottom of cookware, resulting in consistent cooking.
➤ Induction cooktops also heat up quickly, similar to gas cooktops, as they use electromagnetic fields to generate heat. Induction cooktops provide excellent temperature control and are highly responsive to adjustments. They can maintain precise temperatures for extended periods. These cooktops heat the cookware directly, which often leads to even and consistent heat distribution.
➤ Traditional electric cooktops can be slower to heat up compared to gas and induction cooktops. However, some newer electric models have improved heating speed. Electric cooktops, especially those with smooth, glass-ceramic surfaces, can struggle with precise temperature control, leading to slower adjustments. Traditional electric coil or radiant cooktops may have hot spots and uneven heat distribution, leading to potential cooking challenges.
Safety
Induction cooktops rank highest for air quality and energy efficiency. This style of appliance uses electromagnetic energy to heat pots and pans quickly. In addition, induction stoves have the fastest cool-down rate, making them safe for amateur home cooks and children. Electric cooktops are the second safest option, while gas stoves pose the most risk.
Cookware
Induction cooktops require special cookware. These pots and pans are expensive and available in limited sizes and types. Comparatively, you can use nearly any time of cookware on electric and gas stoves.
➝ Learn More: A Comprehensive Guide to Induction Stove Tops
7 Best Electric Cooktops for Your Kitchen
Choosing the right cooktop is a crucial decision for any kitchen, and in this section, we've done the research for you. We've handpicked seven top-quality electric cooktops that offer performance, style, and versatility.
GE® 30" Stainless Steel on Black Electric Cooktop
Shop GE's 30" Electric Cooktop
This sleek 30-inch electric cooktop offers elite performance at an excellent value. This model from GE has four radiant cooking elements that get to temperature quickly. Boil water in no time on one of the power boil elements or delicately reduce chocolate without burning by using the melt setting. This GE electric cooktop also has several built-in safety features, including hot surface indicator lights.
★ GE JP3030SJSS Cooktop Reviews
Homeowners love this appliance, submitting nearly 1,000 five-star ratings. Check out what this happy customer wrote in their glowing review:
"Excellent cooktop. Loving this cooktop. Heats super fast, water boils really quickly, cleans like a dream."
KitchenAid® 30" Stainless Steel Electric Downdraft Cooktop
Shop KitchenAid's 30" Electric Downdraft Cooktop
This KitchenAid electric cooktop includes a premium feature that integrates ventilation into the cooking surface. The 30-inch electric cooktop with downdraft effectively disperses odors, steam, and smoke from your kitchen. This revolutionary technology eliminates the need for an exhaust fan and gives all the benefits of clean air.
In addition to the downdraft feature, this KitchenAid cooktop comes with efficient cooking settings such as:
- Even-Heat Technology maintains an even cooking temperature.
- Super fast boil and super low melting
- Hot surface indicator lights.
★ KitchenAid KCED600GSS Cooktop Reviews
Homeowners love the combination of sophisticated design and premium performance of this electric cooktop. Here is an example of a recent five-star review:
"Great features and nice looking. I have been using this cooktop for about a month. I find the different settings on the cooking surface very helpful and easy to use. The downdraft is in a good location and easy to clean filter. The large chrome control knobs are very nice looking."
JennAir® 36" Stainless Steel Electric Downdraft Cooktop
Shop JennAir's 36" Electric Downdraft Cooktop
Jenn Air downdraft electric cooktops are a luxury option for home cooking appliances. This model includes a premium downdraft ventilation system with three convenient speed settings. Cooking vapors are captured through a thin slot in the cooktop surface while quiet fans quickly whisk smoke and odors away.
Every meal is cooked to perfection on this 36-inch electric cooktop. Three-tiered elements operate at precise high and low temperatures. Its performance is only outmatched by the design and durability of this appliance. JennAir included DuraFinish Glass Protection on its cooking surface to prevent cracks and scratches.
★ JennAir JED3536GS Reviews
"Great cooktop. This cooktop does not even compare to the one I had previously. It is efficient, heats up fast and the still hot indicator is a great feature to avoid mishaps. Love it!"
➝ Learn More: Range Hoods: Exploring Types, Functions, and Benefits
Frigidaire Gallery® 30'' Black Stainless Steel Electric Cooktop
Shop Frigidaire Gallery's 30" Electric Cooktop
This Frigidaire electric cooktop is designed for entertaining! The cooking surface has several expandable features to accommodate all sizes of cookware. Other popular elements of this 30-inch electric cooktop include:
- Easy-to-use front control knobs
- Quick boil mode
- Hot surface indicator light
- Frigidaire's fit guarantee ensures a perfect installation
★ Frigidaire Gallery GCCE3070AD Cooktop Reviews
This electric cooktop is another customer favorite, with an average rating of 4.6 stars! Most reviews include comments like this:
"The new electric cooktop looks great, works as expected and fulfills my needs. The install was simple and straightforward. The shallow depth fits my space perfectly."
Bosch® 800 Series 36" Black Electric Cooktop
Shop Bosch's 36" Electric Cooktop
This Bosch electric cooktop is designed for convenience! Bridge heating elements together to accommodate large pans and cookware. Bosch's PreciseSelect cooking technology offers seventeen different power levels to cook every dish perfectly. Do you need to get dinner on the table in five minutes? Hit the SpeedBoost setting to expedite boiling. Finally, this 36-inch electric cooktop has a smooth ceramic surface that is both chic and easy to clean.
★ Bosch NET8669UC Cooktop Reviews
"Precise. Coming from a previous 36" electric cooktop, the precision for the Bosch is very noticeable. It opens up a world of use to be able to actually simmer something."
Samsung 36" Fingerprint Resistant Matte Black Stainless Steel Electric Cooktop
Shop Samsung's 36" Electric Cooktop
The convenience of smart connectivity combines with exceptional cooking performance in this stunning electric cooktop from Samsung. Take advantage of all its innovative features, such as:
- Remote monitoring through WiFi connectivity
- Option to sync burners to accommodate larger cookware
- Easy-to-clean, fingerprint-resistant cooking surface
- Rapid boil feature
- Intuitive digital-analog controls
★ Samsung NZ36K7570RG Cooktop Reviews
Homeowners highly rate this Samsung electric cooktop. Check out this comment on one of hundreds of five-star reviews:
"Sleek look! I've been dreaming of a sleek cooktop for some time now and I've finally found it! Love how many burners it has, the magnetic dial in case my finger is wet and the touch screen doesn't pick up. I've had it for a month now and couldn't be happier."
LG 36" Black Electric Cooktop
Shop LG's 36" Electric Cooktop
This LG electric cooktop is the perfect harmony of style and performance. The expansive black glass surface has five elements, intuitive controls, and an elegant design that will look perfect in any kitchen design. Its cooking elements feature Steady Heat technology that accurately maintains temperature and is easily controlled by a centralized smooth touchpad. In addition, this LG electric cooktop is ADA-compliant and is seamlessly installed in your kitchen countertops.
★ LG LCE3610SB Cooktop Reviews
"LG Cooktop. I researched LG appliances for several years before purchasing. The performance, the price and the look are so worth the wait, I love my new cooktop."
Electric Cooktop Frequently Asked Questions
Does an electric cooktop need a dedicated circuit?
Yes, you need a dedicated branch circuit for an electric cooktop. These appliances operate at 250 volts and require a 40-50 amp receptacle.
What to know before buying an electric cooktop?
Electric cooktops are easy to use, energy-efficient, and budget-friendly. However, electric cooktops cook food slower and are prone to uneven heat distribution. In addition, the surface remains hot well after the appliance is turned off, resulting in a higher chance of burns.
What not to use on an electric stove top?
Abrasive cleaners and metal scrub pads will scratch the glass or ceramic surface of electric stovetops. Do not use cast iron cookware; the abrasive bottom will damage the cooktop surface. Avoid dragging heavy pots or pans between burners to extend the longevity of your appliance.
Conclusion
Gerhard's is the best appliance store to compare electric cooktops. Their beautiful showrooms are stocked with models from top appliance brands like KitchenAid, JennAir, LG, and more! Gerhard's professionally trained and factory-certified technicians will deliver and install your new cooktop, ensuring it is installed correctly and working perfectly. If you are after a stress-free appliance shopping experience, make Gerhard's your first (and only) stop!
Why Trust Gerhard’s Appliances
Gerhard's Appliances stands as the appliance store of choice in the greater Philadelphia area, boasting an extensive array of home appliances, stunning showrooms, BBB accreditation, Price Match Guarantee, and a steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction.
With over 75 years of being family-owned and operated, Gerhard's Appliances has built a solid reputation as a reliable and trustworthy appliance retailer. Our long-standing presence in the industry demonstrates our commitment to providing excellent products and customer service. Gerhard's Appliances offers a wide range of appliances including refrigerators, dishwashers, as well as cooking, outdoor, and laundry appliances. Whether customers are looking to upgrade their kitchen with a high-performance range or simply need a reliable washing machine, Gerhard's has over 80 top-quality brands to choose from. Shop with us today!
Shop Cooktops at Gerhard’s
Discover a world of premium appliances and exceptional service at Gerhard's Appliances today! Visit our showrooms in Pennsylvania to explore the latest innovations from top brands. For nearly eight decades, our family-owned business has been unwaveringly committed to delivering top-notch appliances and exceptional service. Our friendly team of appliance professionals are always on hand to help you find the right electric cooktop. Start your journey now by exploring our online catalog or calling our friendly team at 215-268-3779.
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