TheIn this article, I will share why you need an electric model instead of a gas version and provide information on how to choose the best electric downdraft Cooktop for your kitchen. The right model will make cooking a lot more convenient, so let me help you choose wisely.
Jenn-Air has the best electric downdraft cooktop; their cooktop elevates the cooking experience with a sleek design and timeless style, consistent element performance, an easy-to-clean cooktop, and innovative features.
Electric downdraft cooktops are a must-have for any kitchen. Downdraft fans remove odors and steam from your kitchen without requiring a hood — saving space and giving you a view of the rest of your open kitchen.
A good electric downdraft cooktop features 4 burners and bridge elements that let you cook anything from risotto to a large pot of stock, freeing up your stovetop for other pots and pans. In addition, downdraft ventilation using filters captures smoke, steam, and odors at the cooking surface for a fresher kitchen.
Do Electric Cooktops Have Downdraft?
Many electric cooktop models do have downdraft features. However, most are not built into the cooktop itself. Instead, downdraft vents are built into a separate module and placed to the side of the cooktop.
A downdraft or pop-up cooktop system doesn’t just allow you to take full advantage of the power and versatility of your cooktop – it also opens up endless options for kitchen design, countertops, cabinetry, and more.
Additionally, all ventless gas cooktops have downdraft. There are no ventless electric cooktops with downdraft. Electric cooktops usually only use downdraft when there are raised burners in a grill or griddle area because then they may cause sparks leaping up and burning hair.
Meanwhile, Downdraft venting uses a motor and fan to pull air downward through a vent built into the cooktop. Downdraft ventilation is most often used in cooking surfaces that lack an overhead hood. The fan pulls smoke and steam downward through the vent directly behind the cooking surface.
Downdraft vents come in fixed and retractable models. Fixed downdraft ventilation simply sits on top of the countertop or is raised onto a downdraft stand. Retractable downdraft ventilation extends upward when needed and retracts down when not in use.
Are Downdraft Cooktops Effective?
Downdraft cooktops are less effective than exhaust hoods since they take care of the smells and smoke while cooking but are not as efficient for grease, moisture, steam, and heat. In addition, since the downdraft is integrated with the cooktop itself, it doesn’t pull out its fatty acids from the food being cooked as the vent hood does.
However, If you are tired of vent hoods, downdraft cooktops are a great choice. Those devices suck all cooking smokes into the fireplace. So don’t worry about your kitchen being stuffy and smoky any longer. Besides, downdraft cooktops are also safer than gas ranges because there’s no open flame in the kitchen.
The advantage of downdraft cooktops is that it is helpful for open-floorplan kitchens, allowing you to place the cooktop anywhere you want. In addition, it can be retrofitted into existing kitchen countertops. It also gives you more flexibility while preparing meals.
Do Electric Cooktops Have Downdraft?
You don’t need a downdraft ventilation system with an electric cooktop. However, if you want to improve the air quality in your kitchen, that’s an option. Here are some more things to consider if you’re buying a downdraft cooker hood.
It depends on several things. If you are installing a cooktop on your kitchen’s island, then a downdraft will ensure that it removes any smoke or steam before it gets to the rest of the room. You may not need the downdraft if you have an island configuration with a hood above it. A ducted ventilation system could work for you depending on how much time you spend cooking.
Although, However, if you’ve ever had to leave the room and come back after you’ve sautéed onions for dinner, you may want downdraft. Downdraft vents are great for cooking areas where a separate hood is not possible or desirable. The downdraft option with electric cooktops allows you to ventilate your kitchen even with shorter ceilings so that steam and odors don’t linger.
Furthermore, downdraft ventilation takes the air directly over your cooktop outside through a venter in the rear of the cooktop, eliminating the need for a hood. A downdraft is ideal for cooks who want to keep their kitchen looking clean and open.
Does Downdraft Cooktop Ventilation Work?
Everyone cooks differently in different circumstances. However, downdraft ventilation, hoods, and over-the-range microwaves will be the right combination for your kitchen. If you’re considering a downdraft cooktop, here are some considerations and features to help you decide.
Meanwhile, Downdraft ventilation works well with gas and induction cooktop models. So downdraft is a great choice if you’re creating your dream kitchen. A professional-style range or range top brings a level of performance that demands a full hood, but sometimes you don’t want the hood to be visible because it breaks up architectural lines or disrupts the room’s style. That’s when a downdraft ventilation system provides the perfect solution.
In a general overview, downdraft is a ventilation system that extracts smoke while cooking. The smoke is pulled straight down instead of through an overhanging hood like the more traditional kitchen hoods.
Downdrafts are excellent for kitchens with limited space as they can be installed in spaces where overhanging hoods would not fit. Some downdraft vents are even built into the cooktop so that once cooking has ended, the vent can be retracted back into the countertop to increase overall kitchen space.
How Does an Electric Cooktop with Downdraft Work?
An electric cooktop with downdraft is like a regular one, but the burners are recessed into the counter to ensure that moisture and steam from cooking are not vented upward. Instead, the vapor created by the heat is drawn down through vents.
A downdraft cooktop generally sits on a two or four-burner surface platform that is raised from the counter to enable you to slide pots and pans in and out easily while cooking. Downdraft cooktops have either 24″ or 30″ widths.
So with an electric cooktop with downdraft, you can either go for a ducted or non-ducted range-hood. The former is integrated into the kitchen unit so that even if it’s built-in, it can still pull fumes and odors out of the room. However, you will need to make room in the cabinet somewhere else to accommodate all ductwork.
A ductless range hood is integrated into the electric cooktop with downdraft, which is convenient as you don’t need to make any more space in the cabinet, but it isn’t as efficient as a hood with a duct.
Furthermore, Electric cooktops with Downdraft offer the convenience of gas cooking with an electric cooktop. The Downdraft ventilation system uses proximity ventilation – drawing airborne contaminants downward into the ventilation system, conveniently hidden beneath the surface until needed. And that means you can enjoy more cooking versatility and more kitchen design options.
How to Vent a Downdraft Cooktop
Venting a downdraft cooktop requires venting tubes and hoods that extend from the cooktop to the home’s exterior. Vent a downdraft cooktop to keep kitchen air clean with information from an experienced cook in this free video on kitchen appliances.
Here is a guide to support you with your venting process:
STEP 1: Determine where you want to vent the downdraft (wall or ceiling) in the room.
STEP 2: Install your chosen ventilation method with a 4″ duct system.
STEP 3: Adjust the installation instruction and connect to a 3-pronged power outlet.
However, consider the other options. For example, you may have the ability to vent through a side wall close by or run it out the back of the cooktop. A hood above the range can also be installed if you look for a more traditional look.
How to Remove Downdraft Vent
If you want to remove the downdraft damper, you must remove the top plate from the countertop. The plate is attached with screws, and after you remove them, you will be able to lift on the plate to remove it.
In general, most downdraft devices are installed under a cooktop. Therefore, to remove a downdraft vent, you first need to pull the device out of its place as far as possible. The next step is to lift the bottom edge of the downdraft using a flat-head screwdriver.
Remove the screws holding the downdraft in position with a drill/driver and pull off the wiring protection plate so that you can disconnect electrical wires easily.
Benefits of Having an Electric Cooktop with Downdraft
Direct ventilation
Cooktop downdraft ventilates the air with a heat wash, pulling odors and smoke back down into the ventilation system below. As a result, there’s no need to turn on the kitchen fan or open the window. As a result, you can save time with faster clean-up after cooking. And, you have more space in your kitchen because range hoods are not required.
Meanwhile, electric cooktops with a downdraft feature have a vent that rises to capture steam, smoke, and odors. Meanwhile, when you’re done with your meal and need to clean up and store your pans, push a button to recede the vent into the cooktop, so it’s out of sight.
Cooktop downdraft ventilation brings fresh air into your kitchen and pulls cooking odors and steam out of the room. Direct ventilation keeps your kitchen’s healthy, clean air while banishing smoke, grease, and smells. It’s a great choice for open-floor-plan homes where a classic range hood would block sight lines or be highly visible.
Space-saving design
An electric cooktop with downdraft venting provides the space-saving design of a built-in cooktop and the convenience of tight sealing burners. Downdraft ventilation options are best for larger cooking areas and open spaces where you prefer not to have an overhead vent.
Rather than having the bulky hoods hanging over the stovetop, you can save some space by simply installing a pop-up downdraft system. The system will quickly escape the air when it is turned off.
Dishwasher-safe components
Downdraft ventilation quickly removes steam, smoke, and cooking odors from the air without a hood. In addition, components are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
Energy efficient
Energy-efficient cooktop reduces the amount of electricity needed to run cooking appliances. Electric cooktops with downdraft systems are just as efficient as any other electric cooktop. The burners heat rapidly and can be adjusted between high and low temperatures.
In addition to being energy efficient, a downdraft cooktop can also be installed in areas where no venting is available.
Also, with an electric cooktop and downdraft system, you can more accurately set your temperature levels and heat your food faster.
One-touch control panel
The one-touch control panel of the electric cooktop makes it easy to set and adjust the downdraft and four burners, simplifying cooking to a single touch.
You only need to gently touch the control panel with the electric cooktop to adjust the temperature and time.
Electric Downdraft Cooktop Buying Guide
Electric downdraft cooktop comes in various styles, sizes, and finishes. This buying guide enhances your ability to choose the model that best suits your kitchen and cooking needs. Whether you are looking for something sleek and modern or prefer a more traditional style, there are many options, from a portable model that can be easily moved around the home to a sizeable one that will fit under your kitchen cabinets.
Type of burners
There are two main types of burners to choose from when purchasing a cooktop: radiant (also known as the coil) and induction. Radiant burners are the most widely available and use electricity to heat metal coils, transferring heat to pans and food.
Induction burners have smooth glass coating, or ceramic plates, over a magnetic base. When an iron or steel pot is placed on the burner, that area heats up while the surrounding areas stay cool. Both types are available in electric cooktops and have their benefits and attributes.
However, choosing between electric radiant, induction, and halogen cooktops involves deciding between cost, speed, and cooking results. Look at each type of burner and weigh the advantages.
Size
Choose a size that matches your cooking style — a larger cooktop will allow you to add more pots and pans at once, while a small cooktop is more convenient for single-person cooking. Often, the size of the downdraft cooktop determines the distance at which the fumes are exhausted.
To help find your perfect fit, measure your kitchen countertops to get a feel for the space available for a cooktop. In most kitchens, at least 24 inches of countertop width is required to accommodate a full-sized model, though models with up to 36 inches of cooking space are available.
For an island installation, be sure to measure both the countertop space and the distance between an island and kitchen cabinets above. Downdraft cooktops often require additional clearance behind your stove to accommodate their retractable ventilator systems when they’re in use—at least 15 inches in most cases.
In general, the larger a downdraft cooktop’s surface area and the number of elements or burners it offers, the more ventilation power it will need to lift smoke and steam out of your kitchen efficiently.
Similarly, larger cooktop surfaces require more powerful heating systems in each burner to heat them evenly across their entire range of temperatures. Bigger isn’t always better: If your kitchen demands a large cooktop because you regularly prepare
Control panel
The location of the control panel can vary based on style. Touch-activated controls have become increasingly popular because they are easy to use, quick to react and provide a sleek look. However, some cooktops have knobs on the front or side instead of touch controls.
The control panel is usually located either along the front of the cooktop or on one of your countertops. Electronic touch controls feel natural and let you define by setting temperature levels with the lightest touch.
BTU
BTU power (or British Thermal Units) measures the maximum amount of gas or electricity your cooktop can use – so higher BTUs generally equals more power. Higher BTUs doesn’t necessarily mean faster boiling, but they help quickly distribute the heat, which is especially useful for searing meats and other high-heat cooking.
Accurate simmering also benefits from higher BTUs. Gas cooktops tend to have a much wider range of BTUs than electric burners, which usually means more power but typically a greater distance between sizes.
The higher the BTU rating, the hotter your cooktop will get, and the more quickly it. However, it’s important to note that a higher BTU doesn’t mean your food will cook faster or better.
Material and color
The material and color of the cooktop have a significant impact on the appearance of your kitchen. Cooktops are durable materials like glass, Teflon, stainless steel, cast iron, and ceramic. In addition, some electric downdraft models have porcelain enamel surfaces which make them easier to clean.
The color of your electric cooktop is also important as it relates to the color scheme in the kitchen. Stainless steel is a popular choice because it complements various styles and colors.
Cooktops come in various materials, and you want to choose one based on your kitchen’s decor, your cooking habits, and the product’s expected lifespan. Cooktops made of ceramic glass, for instance, don’t scratch or stain as easily as porcelain or stainless steel but are more prone to cracking if hit or dropped.
However, ceramic cooktops look sophisticated, but this material can scratch or chip if you’re not careful. Glass-ceramic models are a good compromise. They’re often less expensive than their ceramic counterparts and less likely to break; it’s easier to remove built-up food from flat surfaces.
Heat management system
With the Heat Management System, you’re in control of the heat. It will save energy and lower power consumption and ensure an even cooking experience and more precise temperature control.
In ventilated cooktops, the fan-powered heat management systems are designed to take care of heat properly and avoid any kind of damage.
Meanwhile, every aspect of this cooktop was designed with a purpose. The centrally located heat management system controls the cooking zone to deliver the proper output for your recipe, whether you’re sautéing or searing on a high or low setting. It also enables one burner to cool down quickly.
Design
Shop for electric cooktops with downdraft exhaust systems that vent through the ceiling rather than out the back so that you can install them almost anywhere—even under a window. These ventilation systems are especially well-suited for kitchens where it’s hard to duct outside, such as on an island or peninsula.
Also, consider selecting a model with different burners and features that maximize efficiency, simmer foods at low temperatures while boiling water at high temperatures, and are easy to clean.
Downdraft extractor
All-electric downdraft cooktops come with a downdraft extractor built in— the first on the market. Sitting flush with your countertop frees up valuable space while promising optimal airflow. Available in 30″ and 36″, these cooktops are designed to meet various cooking needs, making them perfect for smaller or larger kitchens alike.
Downdraft extractors work in harmony with your cooktop by rising out of the countertop only when you need it. It allows for flexible installation options and a seamless appearance when not in use.
The downdraft extractor makes it possible to have a cooktop without an overhead hood. Instead, it takes in smoke, heat, and odors straight from your hob—and whisks it away. In addition, a Downdraft extractor can be installed into a kitchen island or countertop, so cooking vapors and odors are extracted before they have a chance to spread throughout the room.
Price
Pricey models will be built from durable materials and often come with a guarantee. They’re designed to last for many years. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, you can choose one at a more affordable price, but make sure it has the features and quality you need.
It can vary depending on the manufacturer, model, size, and other factors. Generally, you’ll pay as little as $1000 or almost $5,000 for an electric downdraft cooktop.
Remember, Careful consideration should be made regarding the location of your cooktop and your cooking preferences. Also, be sure to consider if you need a downdraft option if the ventilation system on your range is not adequate for venting smoke and odors.
7 Best Electric Downdraft Cooktop Review
1. Empava 36 Inch Electric Stove Induction Cooktop
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With the Empava EMPV-IDC36 Electric Stove Induction Cooktop, you don’t have to sacrifice quality for the price. The ultra-slim, 16 in. built-in design requires minimal space and is approved for installation over any Empava brand 24 in. single wall ovens. Induction cooking is more efficient than gas. In addition, it offers more responsive, exceptional temperature control at low and high heat, so it is flexible enough to melt chocolate and hot enough to boil water.
Induction elements are compatible with most stainless steel and cast-iron cookware. In addition, the 5 elements cooktop allows you to heat up to 5 different pots simultaneously, and any element size on the cooktop will accommodate any size pot or pan.
Enjoy minimal cleanup with stain and heat discoloration-resistant spills that can’t burn onto the surface; easy-to-clean Vitro ceramic smooth surface glass will provide you with a reliable cooktop for years to come. In addition, a red LED display with Black Vitro Ceramic Surface helps achieve a modern look that complements the entire kitchen.
2. Frigidaire FFEC3025US 30 Inch Electric Smoothtop Style Cooktop
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The Frigidaire 30″ Electric Cooktop provides a sleek, built-in look that gives your kitchen a polished appearance. Hot Surface Indicators show when the cooking surface is too hot to touch. Flexible elements expand your cooking surface, so the cooktop accommodates pans of all sizes.
This electric cooktop also offers timed cooking for convenience. It includes on/off control, hot surface indicator lights, a Keep Warm Zone, level 1-9 heat setting controls, ready select controls, and a safety lock.
Its durable, easy-to-clean ceramic glass cooktop features a sleek design that simplifies cleaning up spills and splatters. In addition, the hot surface indicator lights let you know when the cooktop is still hot, even after you’ve turned off the burners yourself.
3. Empava 36 Inch Gas Stove Cooktop
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Empava stainless steel gas stove cooktop: Equipped with the 5 Italy imported Sabaf burner, heavy cast iron grates, The 36 in. Gas cooktop from Empava is a one-stop solution for cooking, helping you prepare delicious meals like a pro. This product also comes with LPG/NG Convertible kit and factory-set Natural gas at the production line. Therefore, you can easily hook up to Natural gas first use and then switch to Liquid Propane when natural is unavailable.
It comes with 12 electric multi-functional Sabaf burners that are easy to clean, have low energy consumption, and are efficient, which can help you save money and time.
The durable knobs and laser-cut full-width edge-to-edge heavy cast iron grates can be cleaned in the dishwasher for hassle-free, effortless cleaning and maintenance to enhance the premium look.
4. Karinear 2 Burner Electric Cooktop
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This 12 Inch Electric Cooktop by Karinear is equipped with 2 powerful burners. The durable one-piece surface is easy to maintain and gives this electric cooktop a sleek look. The 12-inch stovetop and double radiant elements are made of an iron mineral plate that reacts quickly to changes in temperature with precise temperature control.
Over-temperature protection shuts off the heating element to avoid overheating and ensure your safety; when triggered, you can turn it off or reset it after a certain time.
The smooth surface is resistant to high temperatures and easy to clean. The downdraft electric cooktop can be installed over single wall ovens and under a cabinet.
Additionally, the Electric Cooktop with 2 cooking zones provides as much heat as you need, ranging from 300W to 1200W. You can easily set the thermostat between 300 and 850 degrees Fahrenheit. Residual heat indicator lets you know when your cooktop is hot so you can reduce the risk of accidents.
5. VBGK Electric Ceramic Cooktop
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The VBGK electric cooktop diameter is 12 inches, with 2 dual cooking zones. The left front zone is 6.5 inches 1200W, and the right rear zone is 7.9 inches 1500W, total 2100W. The control setting is a touch panel with sensor and timer function, 9 heating levels from warm to boil temperatures, child lock protect kids, and elders get burned on accident—frame material made by the top-class ceramic glass with stainless material underneath.
This 20-inch electric cooktop does a great job heating up & boiling water, cooking or heating food with its 8 power levels & 2 burners baking in different power. Included timer(1 – 99 minutes) will help forget the food getting uneaten or burned.
You will enjoy the convenience it brings to you during the cooking process. The electric stovetop can help you make a big meal quickly and safely. It features a built-in design and sleek appearance. It fits any kitchen counter with its 950W & 1810W Power Boost Burners.
6. VIVOHOME 2 Burner 11.5 Inch 3400W Electric Radiant Cooktop
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The VIVOHOME 220V electric radiant cooktop is a great addition to any kitchen. The 11.5″ 2-burner cooktop features an easy-to-clean cooking surface with spiral heating elements, smooth push-to-turn knobs, and a quick-responding sensor. The cooktop will help you easily create a beautiful yet functional kitchen design that best suits your needs. Now you can be immersed in the aromatic essences of your favorite meals without even turning on the oven.
The sleek, beautifully-designed VIVOHOME 3400W electric cooktop is ideal for fast and efficient cooking. The European-made Schott glass surface is engineered to be more scratch-resistant and durable than ordinary glass surfaces found on other cooktops.
It provides you with two different cooking zones that allow you to use different pot sizes, helping save time and energy in the kitchen.
7. GE JP3030DJBB 30 Inch Smoothtop Electric Cooktop
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This 30-inch electric cooktop is perfect for any kitchen. The electric downdraft cooktop has 4 radiant elements making it easy to cook anything you like, and the ceramic glass surface makes cleaning up a breeze. In addition, the glass surface gives all of your cooking pans extra protection and includes easy-to-use controls. There are also multiple settings such as Melt and Keep warm, which gives you more control over your cooking, making everything from delicious sauces to mouth-watering meats.
The cooktop is easy to clean and maintain with a sleek ceramic glass surface. It features four coil heating elements; the cooktop produces up to 2,500w. A Keep Warm setting helps keep food warm after it finishes cooking.
A hot-surface indicator light makes you aware of any residual heat left on the cooktop even after turning off the burner.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best electric downdraft cooktop, look at the list above as a thorough search about hundreds of cooktops was done to find this list of the best. Whether you need an affordable budget electric downdraft or want a designer luxury stainless steel gas, the choices are all here.
My blog is all about creating delicious meals with ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store. I’m passionate about making yummy meals that I can share with my friends and family.