Getting the right cooktop can really transform your kitchen, especially if you’re aiming for a sleek, vent-free aesthetic. If you’re on the hunt for the best 36 inch gas cooktop with downdraft, you’re looking for a specific type of kitchen appliance that offers powerful gas cooking combined with integrated ventilation right at the stovetop. This innovative design pulls smoke, steam, and cooking odors down and away from your kitchen, eliminating the need for an overhead range hood and opening up your kitchen design possibilities.
While truly integrated 36-inch gas cooktops with downdraft are a niche category, many home chefs seek high-performing 36-inch gas cooktops that can either feature integrated downdraft technology or be seamlessly paired with an external downdraft ventilation system. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve rounded up 10 excellent gas cooktop options. While one standout model demonstrates the integrated downdraft feature (albeit in a 30-inch size, highlighting the technology), the others represent top-tier 36-inch gas cooking performance perfect for any kitchen considering a downdraft setup. We’ll help you navigate the features that matter most for superior cooking and effective kitchen ventilation.
Understanding Downdraft Cooktops
Before diving into our reviews, it’s good to understand what makes a downdraft cooktop special. Instead of a hood above, a downdraft system uses a powerful fan to draw air across the cooking surface and down through a vent, usually located behind or between the burners. This is a fantastic solution for island installations, open-concept kitchens, or homes with low ceilings where an overhead hood isn’t practical or desired. These systems effectively tackle cooking fumes and grease, keeping your air quality pristine without obstructing your view.
Our Top 10 Picks for Your Kitchen
Here’s a closer look at our chosen gas cooktops, detailing what makes each a great contender for your kitchen, especially if you’re aiming for an effective downdraft ventilation system.
1. GE APPLIANCES Profile Series 30 inch Built-in Gas Downdraft Cooktop (PGP9830DJBB)
This GE Profile Series model is a prime example of an integrated gas downdraft cooktop. While it’s a 30-inch model rather than 36-inch, it perfectly showcases the convenience and effectiveness of having a downdraft system built directly into your cooking surface. It’s ideal for those prioritizing integrated ventilation and a streamlined look, offering powerful gas burners alongside efficient smoke removal.
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Key Features:
- Integrated downdraft ventilation system
- Electronic ignition for easy start-up
- Continuous grates for easy pot movement
- Dishwasher-safe grates for simple cleanup
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Pros:
- Built-in downdraft saves counter space and eliminates need for overhead hood
- Offers a clean, unobstructed kitchen aesthetic
- Efficiently removes smoke and odors at the source
- Reliable GE brand quality
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Cons:
- Only 30-inch width, not 36-inch as per main keyword
- May require specific ducting installation
- Can be pricier due to integrated ventilation
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User Impressions: Users love the convenience of the integrated downdraft, noting how well it clears the air, even when searing. The design is a big hit in modern kitchens, and despite its smaller size, it performs admirably for everyday cooking.
2. SAMSUNG 36″ Built In Smart Gas Cooktop with Illuminated Knobs
For those seeking robust cooking power and smart features in a 36-inch footprint, this Samsung cooktop is a fantastic choice. While it doesn’t have an integrated downdraft, its powerful burners and Wi-Fi connectivity make it an excellent partner for a separate downdraft ventilation system. You get precise control over your flames and the convenience of smart monitoring.
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Key Features:
- 19K BTU Power Burner for rapid heating
- Illuminated LED knobs indicate when burners are in use
- Wi-Fi Connectivity for remote monitoring via SmartThings App
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish
- Three cast-iron grates with included griddle
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Pros:
- High heat output for quick cooking
- Smart features enhance convenience and safety
- Stylish and easy-to-clean design
- Griddle accessory adds versatility
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft
- Smart features might be overkill for some users
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User Impressions: Customers rave about the powerful burners and the sleek look of this Samsung cooktop. The illuminated knobs are a favorite safety feature, and the griddle attachment gets a lot of use. It’s considered a premium option for serious home cooks.
3. Frigidaire Professional 36 Inch Gas Cooktop with Griddle
The Frigidaire Professional 36-inch gas cooktop is all about robust performance and durability. Its powerful center burner, often referred to as a “Turbo boil,” ensures you can get water boiling or a stir-fry going in no time. This model is built for those who take their cooking seriously and would pair wonderfully with a high-performance external downdraft system.
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Key Features:
- 18,200 BTU Turbo boil center burner for intense heat
- Durable professional-grade design
- Variety of burner sizes for diverse cooking needs
- Included griddle for breakfast or sandwich prep
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Pros:
- Exceptional boiling power
- High-quality construction for longevity
- Versatile burner configuration
- Professional aesthetic
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft
- Might be overkill for casual cooks
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User Impressions: Users love the sheer power and reliability of this Frigidaire Professional cooktop. Many highlight the central burner as a game-changer for quick meals, and the griddle is a frequently praised bonus for breakfast lovers.
4. GE JGP5036SLSS 36 Built-In Gas Cooktop
This GE 36-inch built-in gas cooktop, model JGP5036SLSS, offers dependable performance and a clean, integrated look that fits seamlessly into any kitchen counter. It’s a solid choice for everyday cooking, providing a consistent flame and easy control. While it requires a separate downdraft system, its straightforward design makes it a versatile foundation for your cooking space.
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Key Features:
- Standard 36-inch built-in design
- Reliable gas burner performance
- Easy-to-use controls
- Continuous grates for pan maneuverability
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Pros:
- Reputable GE quality and service
- Clean and unobtrusive design
- Suitable for a range of cooking tasks
- Good value for a 36-inch gas cooktop
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft feature
- Fewer “smart” or high-BTU features compared to premium models
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate this GE model for its reliability and ease of use. It’s often chosen for its simple functionality and sturdy build, performing consistently for daily cooking without fuss.
5. Frigidaire Gallery 36 Inch Stainless Steel Gas Cooktop
The Frigidaire Gallery 36-inch gas cooktop boasts a sleek stainless steel finish and angled front controls, providing both style and convenience. Its Express-Select controls make it incredibly easy to go from a gentle simmer to a roaring boil with precision. This cooktop is perfect for home chefs who value responsive cooking and a stylish appearance, ready to be paired with a sleek, retractable downdraft system.
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Key Features:
- Express-Select controls for precise temperature adjustments
- Angled front controls for ergonomic use and sleek look
- 12,000 BTU right front burner for quick heat
- Continuous grates for easy pot movement
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Pros:
- Visually appealing stainless steel design
- User-friendly and responsive controls
- Good range of burner power for different dishes
- Easy to clean surface
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft
- Some users might prefer larger high-BTU burners
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User Impressions: Reviewers love the modern look and intuitive controls of the Frigidaire Gallery. They find the burners heat up quickly and evenly, making it a joy to cook on, and the angled controls are a popular design choice.
6. GASLAND 36 Inch Gas Cooktop, PRO GH3365SF 5 Burner Gas Stove
The GASLAND PRO GH3365SF offers exceptional value and versatility for a 36-inch gas cooktop. Featuring five highly efficient Italy Sabaf burners, it provides a wide range of heat outputs from powerful searing to delicate simmering. Its robust build and dual fuel capability (natural gas and liquid propane) make it a flexible choice for various kitchen setups, needing a separate downdraft solution.
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Key Features:
- 5 Italy Sabaf highly efficient sealed burners (including 13,000 & 10,300 BTUs high output)
- 2-in-1 reversible grill & griddle made from heavy-duty cast iron
- Dual fuel convertible (Natural Gas & LPG)
- 304 stainless steel surface for easy maintenance
- Thermocouple Protection and CSA Certification for safety
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Pros:
- Excellent burner variety and power
- Grill/griddle accessory adds significant cooking flexibility
- Safety features like flame-out failure device (FFD)
- Easy to clean and maintain
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft
- Brand might be less familiar to some users
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed with the performance and features offered at this price point. The powerful burners and included griddle are frequently praised, as is the cooktop’s overall sturdy feel and easy cleaning.
7. AMZCHEF 36 inch Gas Cooktop with 5 Made in Italy Burners
The AMZCHEF 36-inch gas cooktop stands out with its premium Italian Sabaf burners, offering a formidable 20,000 BTU burner for intense heat. This cooktop is designed for serious cooking, from quick boils to slow simmers, ensuring precise control over your culinary creations. Its durable construction and comprehensive safety features make it a reliable choice for a kitchen where a powerful gas cooktop needs to be complemented by an efficient downdraft system.
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Key Features:
- 5 Italy Sabaf highly efficient sealed burners (including 20,000 BTU high output)
- 2-in-1 reversible grill & griddle made from heavy-duty cast iron
- 304 stainless steel surface for easy cleaning and durability
- Thermocouple Protection and ETL Certification for safety
- Dual fuel convertible (Natural Gas & LPG)
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Pros:
- Extremely powerful 20,000 BTU burner for professional results
- Included grill/griddle offers great versatility
- Robust safety features for peace of mind
- Premium stainless steel finish is attractive and easy to maintain
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft
- Brand may not be as widely recognized
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User Impressions: Customers are thrilled with the intense heat from the main burner and the overall build quality. They often mention the versatility provided by the griddle and appreciate the safety features, making it a well-regarded option for performance cooking.
8. GE PGP9036SLSS 36 Inch Gas Cooktop, Solid Black
This GE PGP9036SLSS 36-inch gas cooktop offers a sleek, solid black finish that can complement a wide range of kitchen decors. It provides reliable gas cooking performance with multiple burners to handle various dishes simultaneously. Its understated elegance makes it a versatile choice for any kitchen design, particularly those integrating a separate downdraft ventilation unit for a clean aesthetic.
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Key Features:
- Solid black finish for a modern, sleek look
- 36-inch width with multiple gas burners
- Durable grates
- Dependable GE brand quality
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Pros:
- Stylish black design is easy to match
- Reliable and consistent gas cooking
- Easy to clean surface
- Trusted brand name
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft
- Fewer unique features compared to higher-end models
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the clean lines and solid performance of this black GE cooktop. It’s often chosen for its aesthetic appeal and the consistent, dependable cooking experience it provides.
9. TOPWISH 36″ Built-in Gas Cooktop, 5 ITALY SABAF Sealed Burners
The TOPWISH 36-inch built-in gas cooktop is another excellent contender featuring high-quality Italian Sabaf burners, known for their efficiency and consistent flame. With a dual-ring 12,000 BTU burner and a range of others, it’s designed to meet diverse culinary needs, from fast boiling to delicate simmering. Its premium stainless steel finish and robust safety features make it a smart addition to any kitchen seeking a powerful gas cooktop to pair with an effective downdraft system.
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Key Features:
- 5 World-Class Made-in-ITALY SABAF multi-functional burners (including 12,000 BTU Dual Ring)
- 304 stainless steel finish for durability and easy cleaning
- NG/LPG convertible with included natural gas regulator and LPG nozzles
- Heavy cast iron grates and heat-resistant knobs
- Thermocouple Protection and CSA Certification for safety
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Pros:
- High-quality Italian burners offer precise control
- Versatile burner configuration for all cooking styles
- Durable and easy-to-clean stainless steel surface
- Comprehensive safety features for peace of mind
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft
- Brand less known than major appliance manufacturers
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User Impressions: Customers frequently praise the responsiveness and power of the Sabaf burners, noting how well it handles various cooking tasks. The easy-to-clean stainless steel and sturdy grates are also big positives for daily use.
10. GE CGP95362MS1 36 Inch Gas Cooktop
The GE CGP95362MS1 is a reliable 36-inch gas cooktop that delivers consistent performance and user-friendly features. While specific feature details for this model were not provided, GE cooktops are generally known for their sturdy construction, effective heat distribution, and ease of maintenance. This model provides a solid cooking foundation that would integrate well with an under-counter or pop-up downdraft ventilation system, ensuring fresh kitchen air.
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Key Features:
- Standard 36-inch built-in gas cooktop
- Typical GE reliability and quality construction
- Multiple burners for diverse cooking needs
- Easy to integrate into standard counter cutouts
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Pros:
- Trusted GE brand ensures quality and support
- Consistent heating across burners
- Durable build for long-term use
- Clean, functional design
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Cons:
- No integrated downdraft
- Specific high-end features not explicitly highlighted
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User Impressions: General GE gas cooktop impressions often highlight their durability and straightforward functionality. Users typically find them reliable workhorses that perform well for everyday cooking tasks, offering good value and ease of use.
What to Look For When Buying a 36-Inch Gas Cooktop (Especially for Downdraft Setups)
Choosing the best 36 inch gas cooktop with downdraft or one to pair with a downdraft system involves considering several factors beyond just burner count.
- Burner Power & Variety: Look for a range of BTU outputs. High-BTU burners (15,000+ BTU) are great for searing and boiling, while low-BTU burners (around 5,000 BTU) are essential for simmering delicate sauces.
- Grates: Continuous cast-iron grates allow you to slide heavy pots and pans across the cooktop easily. Look for dishwasher-safe grates for simpler cleanup.
- Controls: Front-mounted or angled controls are usually more ergonomic. Consider illuminated knobs for safety, indicating when a burner is on.
- Ignition: Electronic ignition is standard and reliable.
- Material: Stainless steel is popular for its sleek look and durability, but consider fingerprint-resistant finishes for easier maintenance.
- Safety Features: Thermocouple flame-out failure devices (FFD) automatically shut off gas if the flame goes out, a crucial safety measure. CSA or ETL certifications are also important.
- Downdraft Compatibility (if not integrated): If you’re pairing with a separate downdraft system, ensure the cooktop’s dimensions and installation requirements are compatible with your chosen ventilation unit. Also, consider the overall power of your external downdraft to match your cooking style.
- Smart Features: Wi-Fi connectivity can offer remote monitoring and control, adding convenience and peace of mind.
FAQ: Your Questions About Downdraft Cooktops Answered
Choosing the right gas cooktop, especially one intended for a downdraft setup, can bring up several questions. Here are some common ones to help you make an informed decision.
Q1: What is a downdraft cooktop and how does it work?
A: A downdraft cooktop is a cooking appliance with a built-in ventilation system that pulls smoke, steam, and cooking odors down into the cooktop and out of your kitchen, rather than drawing them up through an overhead hood. It works by creating a powerful vacuum that draws air horizontally across the cooking surface and then down through a vent.
Q2: What are the main benefits of choosing a downdraft cooktop?
A: The primary benefits include a sleek, unobstructed kitchen aesthetic (no overhead hood), ideal for island installations or open-concept living, and effective removal of cooking byproducts directly at the source, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Q3: Are there any downsides to downdraft ventilation systems?
A: Yes, some potential downsides include: they can sometimes be less effective than powerful overhead hoods for capturing all fumes, especially from taller pots; they may take up cabinet space below the counter; and installation can be more complex due to ducting requirements.
Q4: Can I add a downdraft system to any 36-inch gas cooktop?
A: Not integrated into any cooktop, no. Integrated downdraft cooktops are specially designed. However, you can install a separate downdraft ventilation unit (a “pop-up” or “telescopic” downdraft vent) behind or adjacent to most standard 36-inch gas cooktops, provided you have the necessary counter and cabinet space for installation and ducting.
Q5: What BTU power should I look for in a 36-inch gas cooktop?
A: For a 36-inch gas cooktop, look for a good mix of burner power. At least one burner with 15,000 BTU or higher is excellent for high-heat cooking, while others in the 9,000-12,000 BTU range are great for general cooking, and a low-BTU (around 5,000 BTU) burner is ideal for simmering.
Q6: How difficult is it to install a downdraft cooktop or separate downdraft system?
A: Installation can be more involved than a standard cooktop. Integrated downdraft cooktops require precise counter cutouts and ducting to an exterior wall or roof. Separate downdraft vents also need specific cutout dimensions and ductwork. It’s often recommended to have a professional installer for these types of appliances.
Q7: How do I maintain and clean a downdraft cooktop?
A: For the cooktop surface, most are stainless steel and can be cleaned with mild detergent and a soft cloth. Grates are often cast iron and may be dishwasher safe or require handwashing. For the downdraft system itself, many have removable, dishwasher-safe grease filters that should be cleaned regularly to maintain optimal performance.
Conclusion
Finding the best 36 inch gas cooktop with downdraft — whether integrated or as a complementary system — is about balancing powerful cooking performance with effective kitchen ventilation. Our guide highlights a range of excellent 36-inch gas cooktops that excel in heat output, features, and design, along with a fantastic 30-inch model that perfectly exemplifies integrated downdraft technology.
Consider your cooking style, kitchen layout, and aesthetic preferences when making your choice. Whichever model you opt for, investing in a high-quality gas cooktop paired with efficient downdraft ventilation will undoubtedly elevate your cooking experience and keep your kitchen air clean and fresh. Happy cooking!
