How much does it cost to install a cooktop?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Cooktops add versatility and function to a kitchen. Often installed separately from the oven, a stand-alone cooktop can be installed on kitchen islands, peninsulas, and other areas to increase the room’s function. Cooktops come in many styles and types to customize their use.

The national average for cooktop installation is between $500 and $1,000, with most homeowners paying $650 for installing a new gas cooktop that requires electrical modifications. However, prices vary widely, from as low as $375 for a basic electric cooktop installed up to $3,000 for a high-end induction cooktop installed in a kitchen island.

Cooktop Installation Cost

Cooktop Prices by Size

Cooktops are available in a wide range of sizes, from 12 inches to 36 inches, and the larger the size, the higher the price. Typically, 30-inch or 36-inch units are the most common. To purchase a cooktop that best fits your designated space, measure the area’s height, width, and depth, measuring the widest parts.

Cooktop Cost by Type

When choosing a cooktop, there are three options - gas, electric, and induction. The choice depends on your preferred heating type and budget. Typically, the average homeowner has a four-burner cooktop with varying burner sizes, but options are available anywhere from one to six burners. These prices do not include installation.

Electric Cooktop

The cost of a new electric cooktop ranges from $300 to $1,000. Unlike gas cooktops, electric units heat without a flame. They require access to electricity to heat the unti’s surface. Because there is no open flame, it tends to heat things more slowly but is safer to use. The three types of electric units are coil, solid disk, and smooth top.

Coil Cooktops

Typically, coil cooktops are less expensive and cost between $300 and $450. They are powered by electric coils that sit on top of the surface or in a recessed cavity. It is more vulnerable to spills, but cleanup remains easy thanks to drip pans beneath the coils. The main advantage of a coil unit is its affordability.

Solid Disk Cooktops

Solid disk cooktops run an average of $375 to $500, putting them in the mid-range in terms of cooktops. The solid disks are designed to be extremely durable and are made of cast iron. They are ideal for those who wish to keep pots and pans warm before serving because they are designed to retain heat for longer. They evenly distribute heat, improve the cooking process and work well in smaller spaces.

Smooth Cooktops

Flat cooktops, or smooth units, are more expensive than their coil counterpart, with an average price range of $400 to $1,000. They are powered by radiant elements, which are installed beneath a smooth, easy-to-clean glass surface. This type is known to heat evenly and quickly while providing a more sleek appearance.

Gas Cooktop

Generally, gas cooktops cost between $300 and $1,500. They are powered by natural gas or propane, meaning they heat food with a flame. In addition to rapid heat, this type offers complete control over heat level, giving more cooking flexibility. Typically, cooking with a gas top is cheaper than cooking with an electric or induction top because it uses less energy. However, because you are working with an open flame, it is not the safest option. Cleaning can also be more difficult on a gas unit due to the pan supports and open burners.

Induction Cooktop

Induction cooktops come with a higher price tag, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. They use magnetic currents located beneath the glass surface to heat your food directly. They feature a sleek design and an extremely easy cleanup. Because this type directly heats pots and pans, cooking is much faster and safer because the cooktop is not hot to the touch. Induction units are the most energy-efficient option. However, they require specific induction-ready cookware, so there is an added cost if you do not already have them.

Cooktop Prices by Material

You also must choose the surface’s material. Because the surface of the cooktop is largely visible, this impacts the cooktop’s function and looks. The prices vary depending on the material and size. This table shows the average unit cost for a four-burner cooktop made from the respective material without installation:

Stainless Steel Cooktop

Generally, a stainless steel cooktop costs around $300 to $800. If you decide on a gas cooktop, stainless steel should be your material choice. They offer a few advantages. They are easy to coordinate with home decor, long-lasting, and feature a lower price than other materials. Although it can be easy to clean with a rag and polish, stainless steel shows fingerprints and smudges.

Ceramic Cooktop

Ceramic cooktops, also called glass cooktops, cost $400 to $800. They use either electric or induction, depending on how much you want to spend. This material offers a few advantages. First, it features a flat surface that takes up less space than coil burners on traditional electric cooktops and cast iron grates found on traditional gas cooktops. They are easier to clean and offer a modern aesthetic because of the smooth surface. However, there are a few disadvantages, such as it is easier to burn yourself, scratch the cooktop’s surface if you do not have the special pots and pans, and requires special cleaning.

Enamel Cooktop

Enamel cooktops feature a price range of $400 to $800. They can use gas or electric heat. This material is available in many colors and is easier to clean than most other materials. It can be susceptible to damage with rough handling, despite the outer surface looking hard and strong.

Porcelain Cooktop

Porcelain cooktops are more expensive and cost between $400 and $1,200. Like enamel units, porcelain cooktops can be gas or electric and come in various colors. This material is easy-to-clean, heat-resistant, and harder to scratch, but it is more likely to get damaged if you drop hard objects on it.

Cooktop Cost by Number of Burners

Most homeowners have a cooktop with four burners that vary in size, typically electric or gas. However, you can purchase specialized cooktops with additional burners, depending on your family’s size, how much you cook, and your available space.

These additional burners may include simmer burners, which only reach a low temperature to simmer or keep food warm. They may also include high- heat burners, which are designed to reach higher temperatures than standard burners.

Induction Cooktop Cost by Number of Zones

Similar to electric and gas cooktops, induction units also vary in size or zones. The more zones you want, the higher the price. Although more expensive, an interesting aspect of induction cooktops are the flexible options, referred to as flexinduction, flexizones, or flexible units. It can combine zones or use the entire cooktop as one zone.

Compared with the traditional induction cooktop, flexinduction has a few advantages. First, you do not have to worry about the cookware’s size because the sensors (magnetic coils) detect the cookware, no matter the size. Additionally, because the cooking surface is wider, there are no misused zones for more efficient cooking. And lastly, because the individual sensors only heat the necessary zones, you save on energy.

Cooktop Cost by Brand

When selecting a cooktop for your kitchen, there are many decisions to make. Besides the type, material, and size, you also must choose a brand. Selecting the right brand that best fits your cooking needs is important because they are designed for everyday use. There is a wide selection of options available. Here are some of the top brands with prices for a typical four-burner cooktop:

Whirlpool Cooktop

Whirlpool cooktops cost between $450 and $1,100. Whirlpool is known for its affordable and quality appliances. Whether you choose a gas, electric, or induction unit, Whirlpool offers simplicity, speed, precision, and flexibility. This brand also boasts easy-to-clean surfaces, no matter which type you choose.

Samsung Cooktop

Samsung cooktops start at $550 for basic gas or electric and go up to $2,500 for induction. They offer high-quality performance with a lower price tag. This brand offers users the ability to choose between removable magnetic knobs or digital-touch controls. In addition, They feature distinctive blue LED illuminated knobs to see when it is on from across the room.

JennAir Cooktop

JennAir cooktops fall in the medium-to-high price range, costing between $950 and $3,500. JennAir offers a wide selection of Euro-style gas, electric, and induction units. If you choose gas, JennAir units feature powerful burners with precise heat control ideal for many cooking techniques. If induction is more your style, this brand offers many options, all featuring the same precise temperature control.

Wolf Cooktop

Typically, Wolf appliances come with a higher price tag, starting at $1,190 and going up to $3,100. Wolf offers all three types, gas, electric, and induction, and are available in many sizes. This brand prides itself on precise heating thanks to its range burners, allowing for high and low heat flexibility. Most Wolf units come with one large, two medium, and two small burners and feature knobs on the right.

Bosch Cooktop

On average, Bosch cooktops cost between $1,200 and $3,000. Bosch offers a wide range of sleek, European-designed gas, electric, and induction units. Each type boasts various features, such as optimal cooking flexibility, precise temperature control, easy cleanup, and sleek stainless steel designs.

Thermador Cooktop

Thermador cooktops feature a price range of $1,400 for an electric unit and go to $3,000 for an induction unit. Owned by Bosch, Thermador features the same German-engineering as Bosch products, but with a higher price tag. This brand offers gas, electric, and induction units in multiple configurations, including 30”, 36”, and 48” widths.

Viking Cooktop

On average, Viking cooktops cost between $1,500 and $3,000. Viking offers gas, electric, and induction in three industry-leading varieties, the Virtuoso 6 Series, 5 Series, and 3 Series. Each series comes with benefits, but all are designed to provide versatility and powerful performance. Additionally, if you want a more energy-efficient option, the Virtuoso 6 Series is a great choice.

Miele Cooktop

Miele cooktop costs range from $1,600 to $3,000. As the largest family-owned appliance manufacturer in the world, Miele offers top-of-the-line Smart electric and induction units. This brand offers many interesting features. For example, its Con@ctivity 2.0 feature lets the user concentrate completely on cooking, leaving the rest to the feature’s wireless technology. The wireless technology feature is great when looking for a more energy-efficient unit.

Gaggenau Cooktop

Generally, Gaggenau cooktops come with a higher price tag than most other brands, with a price range of $2,000 to $4,000. Gaggenau, owned by Bosch, offers two state-of-the-art cooktop variations. Both the 400 and 200 series are available in electric, gas, and induction. The 400 series is designed for a spacious kitchen with ranges available from 15” to 36” and features stainless steel illuminated knobs. The 200 series offers a dark aesthetic, smaller footprint (12”-36”), and is illuminated with black controls.

Labor Cost to Install a Cooktop

Installing a cooktop is a fairly straightforward process. Most stand-alone units are powered by electricity and installed by electricians, who typically cost $40 to $120 per hour. The price to hire an electrician varies depending on their expertise level. The entire process takes a bit more than an hour, provided that the gas or electrical connections are in place.

In some cases, the company that you purchase from will offer installation. This cost usually runs between $75 and $125 but assumes that everything is ready for hookup, meaning the proper wiring is done and shut off is in place. You may also have to purchase needed connections.

If you have a gas cooktop installed, you may need the services of a plumber since gas lines and gas shut offs will be involved. If you need a plumber to install your unit, you can expect to pay $75 to $130 per hour. The average installation time is just over an hour.

However, if you need to adjust your countertop before installing a new cooktop, the process becomes more complicated. The price for a granite countertop adjustment and cooktop installation varies by the adjustment’s size and new cooktop. Expect to pay at least an additional $225 for this, on top of the cooktop’s cost and necessary modifications.

Cooktop Installation Cost by Type

The cost of installing a cooktop varies based on the type of professional used, the type, and other factors, such as whether modifications to the countertops, electrical wiring or outlets, or gas line or shut offs will need to be made. On average, you can expect to pay $75 to $350 in labor costs and an average of $375 to $2,750 for materials and labor. Below you will see the average cost you might pay for labor and total installation depending on the type you choose.

Electric Cooktop Installation

Similar to gas units, the process for installing electric cooktops is fairly straightforward. Average labor costs for an electrical cooktop installation runs between $75 and $150, with total labor and materials averaging $375 to $1,150. However, you need a junction box near the desired location, and most electric units require a 240 VAC junction box. When replacing an old unit, a junction box, which is an enclosure that houses electrical connections, is likely already installed.

However, it is recommended to hire a licensed electrician to install it if you move the location or switch from gas to electric. Additionally, ensure that the new unit has the same amperage as the old one. Else, new wiring may need to be done. Many older units have a 30-amp circuit, while newer cooktops have a 40 or 50-amp circuit.

If you need to hire an electrician to install a junction box or new wiring, you have to pay additional costs. On average, the cost to install or replace a junction box is about $200.

Gas Cooktop Installation

When installing a gas cooktop, the process is pretty easy. You can expect to pay an average labor cost of $100 to $175 and an average total installation cost of $400 to $1,675. This is especially true if all that needs to be done is dropping the cooktop into a precut opening and hooking it up to the gas line. It is recommended to hire a licensed plumber to run the gas and supply lines if you are installing it from scratch or moving the unit.

Induction Cooktop Installation

You can expect to pay an average labor cost of $225 to $350 to install an induction cooktop, with the total installation costs averaging $1,225 to $2,750. Installing an induction unit is similar to an electric unit but requires a little more work, especially when installed in a new location. Like electric cooktops, induction units require a 240 VAC junction box with 40 or 50-amp circuits.

It is recommended to hire a licensed electrician to do the modifications when installing the induction cooktop in a new location.

Cost to Install a Cooktop by Location

Cooktops offer flexibility in the kitchen because they can be installed on top of a countertop, an island, or even outside. The installation process and costs, vary depending on where you want to install the cooktop. Most commonly, they are installed on top of a countertop because the necessary gas or power lines are likely already in place.

Counter Cooktop

The average homeowner spends about $625 to $700 for a basic countertop gas cooktop installation when gas lines and ventilation are already in place and $875 to $1,050 when adding gas lines and ventilation. They are most commonly installed on top of a countertop because the necessary gas or power lines are already in place, and the process is fairly straightforward. The cost of installation varies, depending on the cooktop’s type. There may be additional costs if a new gas or power line must be installed.

Island Cooktop

You can expect to pay between $1,100 and $2,000 for installing an island cooktop if you need to have gas lines and ventilation installed, and $800 to $1,300 if you do not. Installing a cooktop on an island provides more working room and a modern aesthetic. The installation process is similar to a countertop but may require extra investment. If you already have an island in your kitchen, the necessary gas or power lines to have a cooktop probably are not there. On average, it costs $200 to have an electrician make those modifications. However, the cost may increase more, depending on the number of modifications.

Additionally, with island cooktops, it is more likely that you need to add a ventilation system. This increases your costs even more. The two most common ventilation systems are hood vents or downdraft. For a gas unit with a hood vent, including installing a gas line and the cooktop, expect to spend about $1,100. For a gas cooktop with a built-in downdraft vent for $1,600.

Outdoor Cooktop

To install a gas cooktop outside from scratch, expect to spend around $1,700 to $3,000 or even more when including gas lines and ventilation. Without the need for gas lines and ventilation, you can expect to pay an average of $1,300 to $2,400. Outdoor kitchens are common for those who live in warmer climates. They offer a few benefits over cooking indoors. For example, it keeps all the smells outdoors, can lower energy usage, and is great for entertaining. However, outdoor kitchens and the installation of appliances can become costly.

If you want to install it in your outdoor kitchen, make sure the type and material can withstand the weather elements. You also must consider the power source, gas or electrical, because it likely must be extended from the house’s main lines and put underground. The installation process and cost varies on the cooktop you choose and if modifications must be made. The cost is significantly higher because it requires a more in-depth process, starting at around $1,000.

Outdoor cooktops are also available as portable stand-alone units that can be placed on tables or the ground. Most commonly, it comes as a gas option with two burners and costs between $75 to $150, depending on the brand. Induction portable units are also available, with a price range of $100 to $300.

Cooktop Replacement Cost

Replacing an existing cooktop is considerably less expensive than a new installation because most of the work is already done. If this is a direct replacement, make sure that the new cooktop’s dimensions match the old model so that the new unit fits the countertop. A licensed electrician can take care of the installation for around $75 to $150, which is about an hour’s work. With a replacement, there is typically a removal cost of $75 to $100. The replacement cost depends on the replacement type.

Gas Cooktop Replacement

Hiring an electrician to remove an old gas cooktop and install a new one costs about $150. For a basic electric unit and installation, the average homeowner pays between $750 and $950. Replacing an older gas unit with a new same-sized unit is the least expensive option than switching over to an electric or induction unit.

When replacing a gas cooktop with an electric or induction unit, the process becomes more complicated and should be performed by a licensed electrician. Gas units require 120 volts, while most new electric and induction units require 240 volts. This means that a new junction box and new electrical lines need to be installed before installing the electric or induction unit. Expect to pay between $200 and $400 to replace gas lines with the wiring necessary for an electric or induction cooktop.

Replace Electric Cooktop With Gas

While electric cooktops are the most common, many people switch to gas if they already have a gas line in their home. It costs around $800 to $1,000 for a basic gas unit replacement and installation. Gas is more efficient and can heat food more evenly, with a faster startup and cooldown.

Converting from an electric to a gas cooktop is not difficult. You can find units that are identical in size, making countertop replacement easy. Extending the gas line to the cooktop is the main issue. If you have a gas-powered oven in the kitchen, then your plumber can T off this line fairly easily to run it to the new cooktop. If not, the line needs to run farther. On average, it costs between $10 to $15 per linear foot to install gas lines. The actual footage and price of the new gas lines depends on how far the unit is from the main line. Typically, this distance is between 2 and 4 feet. In most cases, the gas lines can be easily concealed by your cabinets. The time it takes varies according to the distance the line must run but expect the installation to require between 2 and 6 hours.

Glass Cooktop Replacement Cost

If the glass on your electric cooktop is cracked or damaged, replace it because it can be dangerous to continue cooking on it. On average, replacing the glass on an electric cooktop costs anywhere from $150 to $600, depending on the model. However, if you are doing a full replacement, meaning installing a brand new electric unit, the price increases. You need to hire an electrician to do the replacement, which costs around $150. The cost range of a glass cooktop is $400 to $800, so expect to pay from $550 to $950 for a full replacement.

The process gets slightly more complicated with a glass induction cooktop. This replacement should be done by a professional who is certified in handling induction units. If your unit is still under warranty, the cost will not be too high, but if not, you likely have to spend a lot more money. If you have to purchase a new glass cooktop, most brands now offer extended warranties and possibly a lifetime.. Replacing an induction cooktop’s glass costs between $300 and $800.

However, expect to pay more if you are doing a full replacement. On average, you pay around $150 for the electrician to install it on top of the cooktop’s price, typically between $1,000 and $2,000. In total, prices range from $1,150 to $2,150 for a full induction cooktop replacement. See a summary of the costs in this table:

Cooktop Ventilation

In most cases, when installing any type of cooktop, ventilation systems are required. There are different ventilation systems, with the two most common being a downdraft vent and a range hood.

Some units come already equipped with a downdraft ventilation system. This system engages a vent at the back, rising from a flush surface and pulling steam and smoke downward and out of the vent. This system is beneficial if your unit is installed on an island, peninsula, or another area where you cannot have a traditional hood vent. Generally, a cooktop with a built-in downdraft vent costs between $1,600 and $2,200.

If you decide against a model with a downdraft ventilation system, you must install a hood vent. Range hood vents pull grease, smoke, and particles out of the air generated when you cook out of the range area. There are many styles available, from commercial-grade to unobtrusive. Typically, costs range from $500 to $1,000.

Cooktop Special Features

Aside from the size and material, there are additional ways to personalize your cooktop. Whether it is temperature, safety, or technology, most brands offer a wide range of specialized features. Here are the most common special features:

Dual Burner Cooktop

Usually, dual-element burner cooktops cost between $350 and $1,000. Dual element burners, also called multiple-element burners, have multiple heating elements on a single burner. The two burners are stacked one above the other, making them adaptable to different cookware sizes. For low-temperature cooking (simmering), the flame is small and near the burner’s base. For higher temperature cooking (boiling), the upper ring ignites, producing two flames.

Hot Surface Indicator Lights

Cooktops with hot surface indicator lights cost between $630 and $2,000. Hot surface indicator lights indicate if the cooking surface is hot after the burners have been turned off, making it a great option if you have children. For electric or induction units with this feature, a hot surface light turns on when the glass around each burner reaches 150º F. Even if the unit is turned off, the light remains on until it has cooled below that temperature, which typically takes about 20 minutes.

High-Heat Burner

Cooktops with a high heat-burner feature range from $650 to $1,400. High-heat burners, also known as power burners, offer precise temperature control, with specific settings designed to maintain high heat easier. Units with high heat burners feature higher wattage, which boils water much faster. This element is located on the front left of a cooktop or stove.

Simmer Burner

Cooktops with specific simmer burners cost between $650 and $1,400. Like their high-heat counterpart, simmer burners offer more control over the temperature with specific settings designed to maintain lower heat. Simmer burners are great for certain jobs, such as melting butter and chocolate. Additionally, this burner keeps dishes warm for hours without boiling or burning.

Bridge Burner Cooktop

Generally, units with a bridge burner feature range from $750 to $2,000. A bridge element connects two or more burners for one big cooking surface for larger cookware and griddles. This element takes away heat loss the surface may have. There is a slight price increase if you want a unit equipped with a bridge burner, but most brands are still pretty affordable.

Automatic Reignition

Cooktops with this feature are typically more expensive than the average cooktop, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,000. Some gas units come equipped with automatic reignition. If a burner goes out, units with this feature automatically reignite the flame if the burner is still on. Additionally, automatic reignition lowers the probability of sparking and gas leaks.

Digital Touch Controls - Digital Cooktop

Typically, digital touch control cooktops come with a higher price tag, costing between $950 and $2,200. While some units operate by a dial, many come equipped with digital touch controls for greater control over the burner. This unit is known for its safety features. It has built-in sensors to adjust the heat to the pan’s size and a control-lock feature designed to prevent accidental activation. Additionally, units with digital touch controls are easy to clean and equipped with a digital timer for cooking time.

Glide Touch Controls

When choosing a cooktop with glide controls, you can expect to pay an average of $1,000 to $2,500 for the appliance. Glide controls are similar to electronics such as smartphones and require touch to control the heating elements on the cooktop. The appliance includes a digital pad that utilizes the static electricity of your finger to move. Simply swipe the device to turn on your burners and set them to the desired temperature.

AutoChef

AutoChef is a feature available on select Bosch cooktops and runs $1,500 to $2,500 to purchase the unit. This type is designed to continuously regulate the temperature of your cookware to ensure precise cooking. Whether simmering or pan searing, you will never have to worry about overheating. To utilize this feature, you will also need to purchase compatible cookware which contains the sensors needed to maintain the temperature.

Cooktop Burner Diameter

Most average-sized cooktops have three different-sized burners. The small burner is for simmering or low-flame cooking. The medium burner can be used as an all-purpose burner, and the large burner (or power burner) is for fast boiling. However, many brands offer cooktops with various burner sizes, depending on your cooking style and pan sizes.

The burner size varies from 6 to 9 inches to accommodate different-sized cookware. These options are not usually available with most standard units, so expect to pay at least $1,000 for a cooktop with any of these capabilities.

Safety

As cooktop designs evolve, safety is increasingly becoming a priority. Many units come with special features to avoid accidents. Before using your new cooktop, familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instruction guide for safety tips to help prevent accidents.

Because they require an open flame, gas cooktops are the most dangerous option. However, there are a few notable gas cooktop safety features. Most gas units have a safety valve regulating gas flow, and electric ignitions reduce accident risk.

If you want to use a gas cooktop, here are a few safety tips we recommend following. Ensure burners are not blocked by debris, use anti-corrosive and non-flammable utensils, and have a carbon monoxide detector nearby. You should also have an 18-inch minimum space above the cooktop, for safety reasons.

Because they avoid combustion and gas lines, electric and induction cooktops offer a safer alternative to gas cooktops. There are even options available with automatic reignition capabilities and hot surface indicator lights for enhanced safety measures.

Energy-Efficient Cooktop

When looking for the greenest option, an induction cooktop is for you. This unit is the most environmentally friendly and energy-efficient option. Because induction cooktops heat pots and pans through direct contact, with no heat lost to the surrounding air, they operate at about 80-90% efficiency. On average, induction cooktops cost between $1,000 and $2,500.

However, there are a few ways to be more energy-efficient if you want a gas or electric cooktop. For example, match the pan’s size to the burner, such as a 6-inch pan for a 6-inch burner. Even a 2-inch difference can result in heat waste. Additionally, keeping your unit clean is important for efficiency. Pans that are blackened from heavy use absorb heat, which reduces your burner’s efficiency.

Maintenance

If easy to clean is a top priority for you when purchasing a cooktop, then induction is your best option. Because it directly heats pots and pans, there is no risk of heat burning any spills and getting stuck to the surface, allowing for an easy cleaning process. However, spills become more difficult to clean once they have hardened to the stove if you do not quickly clean them. For cleanup, use a microfiber cloth moistened with either water or vinegar once the surface is no longer hot. Never use a scrub brush or scouring pad or because you can scratch the cooktop’s surface.

If a coil or gas cooktop is more your style, be prepared for a longer cleanup routine. Both these styles contain several parts, so you must take care of them separately each time you clean. Some gas units come with grates that are dishwasher-safe. If not, you have to handwash the grates in the sink with concentrated dish detergent or a non-toxic degreaser. While the grates are still off, use either cleaning solution on the cooktop. Finish the cleaning process with a glass cleaner to create a nice shine.

Range vs Cooktop

There are several factors to consider when deciding between a range, a stove with an oven underneath, or a cooktop. Ultimately, it depends on your cooking needs because each provides unique benefits.

Ranges are the most common because they combine an oven and stovetop, so you do not have to buy each appliance separately. In addition to being a single purchase, ranges offer a few more benefits. First, all cooking functions are in one location, making it an efficient option for smaller-sized kitchens. Several types, sizes, and cooking styles are available, including freestanding, drop-in, slide-in, or double oven. They are easy to install with the overall cost mainly related to the type of range chosen.

If cooktops are more your style, they come with an array of benefits. First, they require a small cutout in your countertop, providing space on all four sides and more room for cabinet space below. Cooktop control features are located on the surface’s top, making it a much safer option, especially if you have children. In addition to increased safety, cooktops also increase cooking flexibility. There are opportunities to customize your cooktop with the number and style of burners.

Below you can see the basic cost difference between having a range and a cooktop installed.

Induction Cooktop vs Gas Cost

When deciding on an induction versus a gas cooktop, there are few things to consider. There is no wasted heat because it is directly supplied to the pot or pan, it has easy cleanup because of the smooth surface, and you have maximum safety because this cooking keeps the surface cool. However, there are a few disadvantages. First, induction cooking only works with pots and pans made out of magnetic materials. This cookware is typically more expensive than normal cookware. Induction units only work with power, so you cannot heat anything if your power goes out. Induction cooktops are often considered high-end.

Gas units also offer a few advantages. In contrast to induction, these cooktops operate if the power goes out. In addition, gas units have a lower heat emission, meaning the kitchen stays cool while cooking. They can also easily change the temperature because of the knob controls. Using a gas cooktop has several disadvantages. First, they can be tougher to clean because of the metal grates. And, gas units can be dangerous if not installed or used correctly because dangerous gas leaks may occur.

Below you will see a comparison of the average costs you can expect to pay for materials for gas and induction cooktops.

Induction vs Electric Cooktop

There are a few notable differences when comparing an induction cooktop with an electric unit. The first is the surface’s temperature. Because induction cooking means heat is transferred from the coils to the pan, the surface remains cool. When using an electric cooktop, the surface is hot and remains hot until turned off and cooled, which usually takes about 20 minutes.

The second major difference between an induction and an electric unit is the price range. Induction cooktops are often considered high-end, so they are noticeably more expensive, especially if you do not have the correct cookware.

If you want a lower-cost alternative, an electric cooktop is a great option because it offers advantages. Because they are the most common type, they are easy to install and use. They also offer residual heat, meaning you can use the heat to keep food warm once you turn the burner off. Lastly, electric cooktops are available in many sizes and styles, allowing you to pick one tailored to your needs.

Below you will see a comparison of the average costs you can expect to pay for materials for electric and induction cooktops.

Gas vs Electric Cooktop

Although it seems obvious, one major difference between gas, electric, and induction cooktops is the power source. Gas stoves need to be hooked up to your gas line, but this means they can still work if the power goes out. Another notable difference is the operating cost because using natural gas costs less than electricity. While it may be cheaper to operate a gas unit, you are wasting more energy than an electric cooktop. One significant advantage electric units have over gas is that they are more energy-efficient if you are looking for the greener option. Below you will see the average costs you can expect to pay based on the type of heat source you choose for materials.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Smart Cooktop

A Smart cooktop comes equipped with WiFi or Bluetooth to connect the device with a smartphone application that controls each burner’s temperature remotely or sets automatic functions. Typically, if your home features other Smart devices, such as a Google Home or Amazon Echo, a Smart cooktop is a good option. Both WiFi and Bluetooth-equipped cooktops start at around $1,000. Higher-end smart cooktops use their Bluetooth connection to sync with the ventilation system. Through this syncing, the ventilation can determine the temperature and optimize the speed for cooking. These types of ranges integrate with smart pans and electronic cookbooks. Through a control mode on the app, the cooktop adjusts the temperature to ensure proper cooking of the recipe. These units are significantly higher priced, often starting at $4,000.

Cooktop Griddles

Some models come with a griddle attachment that can be placed on the cooking surface’s top. This attachment is perfect for breakfast foods, sandwiches, and vegetables. Griddle attachments cost around $100. Although built-in griddles are more common on ranges, a few higher-end brands offer a built-in griddle, which starts at around $1,400.

LED Display

Many cooktops have an LED display that gives precise readings for heat, burner capability, and cooking time. Models equipped with an LED display are typically more expensive, costing $650 to $1,000.

Modular Attachments

Some brands offer modular attachments for their cooktops, typically around 12 inches to 15 inches, and can be used with gas and electric units. A few examples of these modular attachments include a steamer, wok cooker, deep fryer, grill griddle, and burner. Typically, modular attachments are not included with the cooktop purchase, so you must purchase the attachment separately. Generally, modular attachments cost between $75 and $400.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• DIY. Although installing or replacing a cooktop can be a DIY project, it is not recommended. The professional electricians hired to install your cooktop have handled countless similar jobs over the years, so they know exactly what to do. In most cases, the process involves working with gas and power lines, so a person’s safety is of utmost concern. Additionally, hiring a professional saves time and eliminates costs for tools and materials.
• Ceramic cooktop with induction. Ceramic cooktops do not require special pots. However, if you are using a ceramic cooktop with induction, you need induction-compliant cookware.