As kitchens become more modern, cooktops are finding their way into homes. Opposed to a traditional range, or stove, cooktops are built into the counter, are accompanied by a wall oven, and save money and space. Cooktop sizes come in 30" and 36"; there are three main forms: gas, electric, and induction.
Gas cooktops are fueled by natural gas or propane. This open flame burner allows control of the heat source and is the most traditional choice in most homes. Gas cooktops are minimalistic, as they do not contain many features.
Electric cooktops come in coil or radiant, better known as smoothtop. This appliance produces a flameless heat through electric power. Coils utilize dials, which sit on top of a metal drip pan; while smoothtops possess a flat glass or ceramic surface with built in burners.
Induction cooktops utilize induction technology, which generates heat in the pan or pot being heated. This function takes place through a magnetic field where the electrons in the pan produces electrical currents to induce heat.
When purchasing a cooktop, also consider a ventilation system. Downdraft Cooktops include a method of venting.
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