Space is key when considering the addition of an electric cooktop to your home. Since an electric cooktop requires a very different kitchen layout than a range does, it’s easiest to make this conversion when building or remodeling.

You’ll also need to make sure that the space that you choose can accommodate some form of ventilation. An overhead hood is commonly used to ventilate, but for electric cooktops in islands and peninsulas, downdraft ventilators are very popular. Downdraft ventilators eliminate the need for an overhead hood and instead use a blower to pull smoke, heat and grease downward into ductwork. Downdraft ventilators may come built into the cooktop or be installed next to it. Some ventilators are telescopic, meaning that they are stored under the counter and rise to ventilation height at the touch of a button.

In many communities, electricity is the fuel of choice. Those who are used to electricity are often more comfortable using it and may feel safer without an open cooking flame. The recent trend in electric cooktops is to offer electronic touch and slide controls in addition to more typical knob controls. Touch controls are similar to the controls on a microwave oven; slide controls are also embedded in the glass of the cooktop, but are operated by simply sliding a finger along the glass. Some cooktops, such as some new models from Bosch offer the convenience of a timer built into the controls.

Like any product, an electric cooktop has disadvantages; when cooking with electricity, the primary problem is a slower reaction time. This makes it more difficult to control an element for holding a simmer and may increase the time it takes to bring water to a boil. The only exception to this rule is the electric induction element, which is an expensive option that uses magnetism and offers control as precise as any gas burner.

The next thing that you’ll want to consider is what size is right for your space. Until recently, electric cooktops that are 30 inches wide were most prevalent, but homeowners increasingly are opting for larger cooktops, measuring 36 inches in width. In very large homes, even larger cooktops — measuring 42 inches, 48 inches or 60 inches — are common. Most electric cooktops will offer four to six burners, and some will offer options such as grills, griddles and char-broilers. Other less common accessories include steamers, fryers, rotisseries and woks.

Once you’ve figured out the size, type and placement of your electric cooktop, the biggest concern most people will face is cleaning. Easy cleaning is an important feature for most busy families. When shopping for any electric cooktop, be sure to check how the unit is to be cleaned.
Electric cooktops will offer either coil or flat, glass-ceramic elements. Coil elements will be cheaper, but also more difficult to clean and will have drip pans that require removal.

Electric cooktop warranties are generally one year for parts and labor. Occasionally, a manufacturer will offer a longer warranty or a variation of this rule of thumb, but this is uncommon.