Imagine searing a steak, the delicious smell filling your kitchen, but without the usual cloud of smoke heading straight for your face. Downdraft gas cooktops make this a reality, whisking away odors and fumes right at the source. But choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. What size do you need? How powerful should it be? And what about all those different features?
Finding the perfect downdraft gas cooktop is important because it can change how you cook and how your kitchen looks. Many people don’t want a big hood hanging over their stove. A downdraft cooktop offers a sleek, modern look while still getting rid of smoke and smells. But with so many models available, it’s easy to get lost in the details. You might worry about whether it will really work well, or if it will fit in your kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to choose the best downdraft gas cooktop for your needs. We’ll talk about size, power, features, and what to look for to make sure it works well in your kitchen. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to pick the perfect cooktop to create delicious meals in a clean, fresh-smelling kitchen.
Our Top 5 Downdraft Cooktop Gas Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Downdraft Cooktop Gas Detailed Reviews
1. GE PP9830DJBB Profile Series Electric Cooktop with 4 Burners and 3-Speed Downdraft Exhaust System
Rating: 9.3/10
The GE PP9830DJBB Profile Series Electric Cooktop is a sleek and powerful addition to any kitchen. This 30-inch black cooktop features four burners and a 3-speed downdraft exhaust system. The downdraft system helps to keep your kitchen air clean by pulling smoke and odors down and away. With convenient features and a modern design, this cooktop makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- The 9″/6″ Power Boil element heats up quickly. You can use different sized pots and pans. It delivers a powerful 3,000 watts of heat.
- The Bridge Element combines two cooking elements. This creates one larger cooking area for oversized cookware.
- The Control Lock prevents accidental use. It’s great if you have kids.
- Hot surface indicator lights show you when the elements are hot. This helps prevent burns.
- The Cooktop “On” indicator light tells you when an element is active. You’ll always know if a burner is on.
What Could Be Improved:
- The black surface can show fingerprints easily. You might need to wipe it down often.
- The downdraft system might not be as effective as a traditional hood vent. Consider your ventilation needs.
In conclusion, the GE PP9830DJBB cooktop offers great features and performance. It is a stylish and functional choice for any modern kitchen.
2. GASLAND Electric Cooktop with Downdraft Vent 31.5 Inch(80cm)
Rating: 8.7/10
The GASLAND Electric Cooktop with Downdraft Vent is a great option if you want a cooktop and ventilation system in one. This 31.5-inch (80cm) cooktop has 4 burners, a smooth glass surface, and a built-in downdraft vent. The vent has 3 speeds and can remove up to 330 CFM of smoke and odors. You won’t need a separate range hood! It can vent outside or recirculate air inside, but the duct-free kit isn’t included. The cooktop also has great features for cooking like a dual-ring element and bridge elements for larger pans.
What We Like:
- This cooktop combines cooking and ventilation, so you save space and money.
- The 5”/8” dual-ring element lets you use different sized pots and pans.
- Bridge elements provide a large cooking area for griddles or long pans.
- The 3-speed fan effectively removes smoke and odors.
- Cleaning is easy thanks to the smooth glass surface and removable parts.
- Multiple safety features, like child lock and overheating protection, keep your family safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- The duct-free kit for recirculating air is sold separately.
- Some users may prefer a higher CFM rating for even stronger ventilation.
Overall, the GASLAND Electric Cooktop with Downdraft Vent is a convenient and safe appliance to cook with. It is perfect for modern kitchens and anyone looking to save space.
3. Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood with Stainless Steel Cover
Rating: 9.4/10
The Broan-NuTone 273603 Eclipse Range Hood is a powerful downdraft system. It removes smoke and odors from your kitchen. The stainless steel cover looks sleek and modern. It has a 500 CFM blower to keep your air clean. This 36-inch downdraft is a good choice for many kitchens.
What We Like:
- Powerful Ventilation: The 500 CFM blower works fast to clear the air.
- Universal Compatibility: It works with almost all self-contained cooktops. This makes it easy to install.
- Space-Saving Design: The design saves space under your counter. You can use that space for storage.
- Easy to Control: The speed control is flush with the side. It is easy to adjust the fan speed.
- Flexible Installation: The blower can discharge to the right, left, or down. It also slides side to side.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Warranty: The one-year limited warranty could be longer.
- Noise Level: At the highest speed, the fan can be a little noisy.
This Broan-NuTone downdraft range hood is a great option for kitchens that need effective ventilation without a traditional overhead hood. It offers strong performance and a space-saving design.
4. SAMSUNG 36″ Built In Smart Gas Cooktop with Illuminated Knobs
Rating: 9.1/10
The SAMSUNG 36″ Built-In Smart Gas Cooktop is a sleek and powerful addition to any modern kitchen. This cooktop offers five burners, including a high-powered 19K BTU burner for fast boiling and searing. The black stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, keeping your cooktop looking clean. Smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity let you monitor and control the cooktop from your phone.
What We Like:
- The 19K BTU Power Burner quickly boils water and sears food.
- Illuminated knobs provide a clear visual indication of burner status.
- Wi-Fi connectivity allows remote monitoring via the SmartThings app.
- The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps the cooktop looking clean with minimal effort.
- The included griddle adds versatility for cooking breakfast or grilling indoors.
- Three cast-iron grates make it easy to slide pots and pans.
What Could Be Improved:
- The SmartThings app can sometimes be glitchy and slow to connect.
- The black stainless steel finish, while fingerprint resistant, can still show smudges.
- Professional installation is recommended, adding to the overall cost.
Overall, the SAMSUNG 36″ Smart Gas Cooktop offers a great blend of power, convenience, and style. It is a smart choice for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking experience.
5. GE Profile PP9830DRBB 30 inch Built-In Downdraft Electric Cooktop – Black
Rating: 9.1/10
The GE Profile PP9830DRBB 30-inch Built-In Downdraft Electric Cooktop in Black offers a sleek look for your kitchen. It fits right into your countertop. The black color makes it look modern. This cooktop gives you a smooth surface for cooking. It can be a good option if you need a simple cooktop.
What We Like:
- The black finish looks modern and clean.
- The built-in design saves space on your counter.
- It offers a smooth cooking surface.
- The downdraft ventilation helps reduce the need for an overhead range hood.
What Could Be Improved:
- The features are basic, so it may not suit advanced cooks.
- It lacks some advanced features that other cooktops have.
- The downdraft system might not be as effective as a powerful range hood.
- Cleaning the downdraft system can be difficult.
This GE cooktop is a simple option for people who want a basic electric cooktop. However, if you need advanced features, you might want to explore other options.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Downdraft Gas Cooktops – Cooking Without the Fumes!
If you’re tired of smoky kitchens and lingering food smells, a downdraft gas cooktop might be the answer! These cooktops pull smoke and odors down and away, instead of up into your face. This guide will help you choose the best one for your kitchen.
What is a Downdraft Gas Cooktop?
A downdraft gas cooktop is a cooking surface with built-in ventilation. A fan sucks air, smoke, and smells downwards, through a vent located beside or between the burners. This eliminates the need for a traditional overhead range hood in some cases. It is a great option if you don’t want a hood hanging over your island or cooking area.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a downdraft gas cooktop, consider these important features:
- Burner Power (BTUs): Higher BTUs mean more heat. Look for a range of burner sizes and power levels. A high-powered burner is good for boiling water quickly. Lower-powered burners are better for simmering sauces.
- Number of Burners: Most downdraft gas cooktops have four or five burners. Choose the number that suits your cooking needs.
- Grates: The grates are what hold your pots and pans. Cast iron grates are durable and retain heat well. Continuous grates allow you to slide pots easily across the cooktop.
- Downdraft System Power (CFM): CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It measures how much air the downdraft system can move. Higher CFM ratings mean better ventilation.
- Control Knobs: Look for easy-to-grip and use control knobs. They should be clearly marked with temperature settings.
- Ignition System: Most gas cooktops use electronic ignition. This means you don’t need a match to light the burners.
- Safety Features: Flame failure detection is an important safety feature. It automatically shuts off the gas if the flame goes out.
- Cleaning: Look for features that make cleaning easier. Sealed burners prevent spills from getting inside the cooktop. Dishwasher-safe grates are a bonus.
Important Materials
The materials used in a downdraft gas cooktop affect its durability and performance.
- Cooktop Surface: Stainless steel is a popular choice. It is durable and easy to clean. Glass cooktops look sleek but can be more prone to scratches.
- Burner Caps: Brass burner caps are durable and distribute heat evenly.
- Grates: Cast iron grates are heavy-duty and retain heat well. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates are easier to clean.
- Downdraft Vent: Stainless steel is a common material for the downdraft vent.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can affect the quality of a downdraft gas cooktop:
Improve Quality:
- High BTU Burners: Powerful burners allow for faster cooking.
- Effective Downdraft System: A strong downdraft system removes smoke and odors efficiently.
- Durable Materials: Quality materials ensure the cooktop lasts longer.
- Precise Temperature Control: Consistent temperature control is important for consistent cooking results.
- Easy to Clean Design: A cooktop that is easy to clean saves you time and effort.
Reduce Quality:
- Low BTU Burners: Weak burners can make cooking slow and frustrating.
- Ineffective Downdraft System: A weak downdraft system does not remove smoke and odors well.
- Cheap Materials: Low-quality materials can lead to premature wear and tear.
- Uneven Heating: Uneven heating can result in poorly cooked food.
- Difficult to Clean Design: A hard-to-clean cooktop can be a hassle.
User Experience and Use Cases
Downdraft gas cooktops are ideal for:
- Kitchen Islands: They eliminate the need for an overhead range hood.
- Open-Concept Kitchens: They help keep the air clean and fresh.
- Homes with Limited Ventilation: They provide an alternative to traditional range hoods.
- People Who Don’t Want a Bulky Range Hood: They offer a cleaner, less obtrusive look.
Users often appreciate the convenience of downdraft systems. They keep the kitchen cleaner and reduce odors. However, some users find that downdraft systems are not as effective as traditional range hoods, especially for high-heat cooking. The cooktops can also be more expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to consider?
A: Burner power (BTUs), number of burners, grate material, downdraft CFM, and safety features are key.
Q: Are downdraft gas cooktops as effective as range hoods?
A: They can be effective for light to moderate cooking. However, range hoods are generally more powerful for heavy-duty cooking.
Q: How do I clean a downdraft gas cooktop?
A: Clean the cooktop surface with a mild cleaner. Remove and wash the grates. Clean the downdraft vent regularly to prevent grease buildup.
Q: Do downdraft gas cooktops require special installation?
A: Yes, they require a vent that goes outside. You also need a gas line and an electrical outlet.
Q: Are downdraft gas cooktops more expensive than regular gas cooktops?
A: Yes, downdraft models are generally more expensive due to the built-in ventilation system.
Q: What is CFM and why is it important?
A: CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute. It measures the airflow of the downdraft system. Higher CFM means better ventilation.
Q: What is the benefit of continuous grates?
A: Continuous grates allow you to slide pots and pans easily across the cooktop without lifting them.
Q: What is flame failure detection?
A: Flame failure detection is a safety feature. It automatically shuts off the gas if the flame goes out, preventing gas leaks.
Q: Can I replace a regular gas cooktop with a downdraft model?
A: Yes, but you will need to install the downdraft vent system.
Q: Are downdraft gas cooktops energy efficient?
A: Gas cooktops in general are pretty energy efficient. The downdraft system uses some electricity, but it’s not a significant amount.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!