Are you struggling to find a gas stove that fits your kitchen? Unfortunately, sometimes kitchens are too small to fit your gas range and hood. Or perhaps a range hood doesn’t fit the aesthetic of your kitchen. Trust us, we understand the frustration.
Thankfully, a gas stove with downdraft is a space-saving, stylish solution for your kitchen. It offers effective ventilation for your cooking, without taking up any extra space.
We’ve put together a list of features you should look for in gas cooktops with downdraft. We also looked at the best models on the market. With our buying guide, you can find the best gas cooktops for your kitchen.
Our Top Picks
Home Kitchen Land earns a commission through the following independently chosen links at no additional cost to you.| Best Gas Cooktop With Downdraft of 2023 | ||||
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 | Best 30-inch GE Profile PGP9830TJWW |
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 | Best 36-inch KitchenAid KCGD506GS |
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 | Most Elegant GE Profile PGP9830DJBB |
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 | Best With 4 Burners KitchenAid KCGD500GSS |
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- Our Top Picks
- Do You Really Need a Gas Cooktop With Downdraft?
- How Does A Gas Cooktop With Downdraft Work?
- What To Look For In A Gas Cooktop With Downdraft
- The Best Gas Cooktop with Downdraft Of 2023
- Gas Cooktop with Downdraft Comparison Chart
- Disadvantages of Gas Cooktops With Downdraft
- FAQ
- Now You’ve Got The Low-Down
Do You Really Need a Gas Cooktop With Downdraft?
Yes, we think so! There are some situations where a gas cooktop with downdraft comes in handy.
For example, some kitchen designs don’t have space to install a range hood. So a downdraft ventilation system can be a good alternative that fits with open floor plans or kitchen island gas cooktops (1).
With a downdraft, you don’t lose the extra space you would with a separate hood. So it creates more space in your kitchen for storage.
And it also provides good ventilation in homes that aren’t able to duct through the ceiling or wall. Instead, downdrafts can be ducted through your floor or underneath your kitchen cabinetry.
Downdrafts also provide effective ventilation when you’re grilling or frying in shallow pots and pans. Plus, it can also reduce your cleanup time. Unlike traditional extractors, there’s no build-up on your hood from steam and odors being drawn out downwards or sideways. So you won’t have to waste time cleaning residue build-up off a tall overhead extractor.
Lastly, although it’s more of a personal preference, some people find that downdraft cooktops are more stylish for your kitchen. Because it doesn’t take up a huge block of your space as a range hood does. So it offers a more subtle and elegant design for your kitchen.
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How Does A Gas Cooktop With Downdraft Work?
A downdraft gas cooktop has a ventilation system integrated directly into the cooking surface. It uses a circulation system designed to pull fumes and grease in the air down and away from your cooking area.
The vent pulls the air and recirculates it out of your kitchen through ducts below or behind your cooktop. So there’s no need for overhead ventilation because the system is built into your appliance. And the built-in gas cooktop design of this type of ventilation means it’s always ready to use.
Plus, the vents are always out of the way because there’s no overhead unit. But the downdraft system does require a blower and plenum. So it’s important to note that you’ll need space under your counter cabinet to house these components.
If you want to find out more about how a downdraft gas cooktop works, take a look at this video:
What To Look For In A Gas Cooktop With Downdraft
Keep these details in mind when you’re searching for the best downdraft cooktops for your kitchen.
Size
First, consider how many burners you need. There are two sizes of cooktops available for gas cooktops with downdraft. And the dimensions of your cooktop impact how many burners it has. For example, a 30-inch cooktop has four burners, and a 36-inch cooktop has five burners.
If you want maximum cooking versatility, consider what size will work best for your needs. If you live on your own, you might not need more than four burners. But if you’re cooking for a lot of people, you should consider the bigger size with five burners.
Make sure you pick the right size and number of burner zones for your needs.
Material
Second, think about the material of your cooktop. Some gas cooktops with downdraft models are made with a stainless steel finish. For instance the Kitchenaid model. Whereas some models are made with black glass, like the Jenn-air cooktop model.
So make sure you consider the material that fits your style and needs.
CFM Rating
Then, think about your cooking style and how you’re going to use your cooktop.
The CFM rating indicates the amount of air volume moved per cubic foot per minute. Most gas downdraft cooktops have a maximum rating of 350 CFM, which is similar to the CFM of your over-the-range microwave.
For most cooking styles, a maximum rating of 300-400 CFM will work. But, if you’re a home chef you’ll need a traditional ventilation system.
If you rarely use high heat for cooking, for example for wok stir-frying, a lower CFM downdraft cooktop may work fine for your needs. For instance, this Jennair model has a rating of 297 CFM.
Fan Speed
It’s also important to consider your fan speed. Some models have different fan speed options for you to choose when cooking.
For example, this GE model has 3-speed options of low, medium, and high.
Brands
Finally, before choosing you should take time to consider the different downdraft cooktop brands. It’s worth doing your research to find your favorite brand.
Jeann Air
Jeann Air is a luxury cooking brand founded in 1965. They are a leading expert in downdraft ventilation. They’re known for their innovation in bringing downdraft ventilation into the kitchen. They offer high-end stylish downdraft appliances for all cooking spaces.
KitchenAid
KitchenAid has been around since 1919. It’s a well-known and loved brand known for its stand mixers. They offer a varied range of premium kitchen appliances and cookware. This brand offers quality products for cooking, baking, brewing, or blending.
GE
GE is a Haier kitchen brand founded in 1907. They offer reliable and top-rated kitchenware appliances and cookware. Their products offer lasting quality at a range of different prices.
Frigidaire
Frigidaire is a well-loved kitchen appliance brand in the U.S founded in 1916. They’re known for offering affordable luxury appliances. This brand has a range of varied products to suit different budgets from home cooks to professional chefs.
Warranty
Finally, check the warranty term for your cooktop.
Different brands have different warranties. It’s important to know that you’re covered for any defects if you need to replace your product. So make sure you check the details before you buy. For example, GE offers a limited 1-year warranty for their appliances.
Make sure you check the manufacturer’s website to find the details about your warranty. If you’re unsure you can contact the seller.
The Best Gas Cooktop with Downdraft Of 2023
We’ve spent hours researching expert advice, honest reviews, and technical specs to find you the best downdraft gas cooktop on the market.
1. GE Profile PGP9830TJWW
Just because you don’t have a lot of space in the kitchen, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality cooking space.
While some downdraft cooktops have multiple burners with various sizes, this 30” downdraft gas cooktop is an exception. With four full-sized burners, you can place four large pots or pans on the cooktop at once. So you won’t have to sacrifice size if you’re multitask cooking.
It also has easy-to-read adjustable controls to increase or reduce the exhaust level to suit your cooking. So you won’t have to worry about flame disruption ruining your delicate sauces. Plus, you can enjoy easy access to the controls as they’re placed in the lower center of the cooktop.
Lastly, the ceramic glass cooktop surface is super easy to clean. You can wipe it down with a paper towel after cooking without worrying about any food residue sticking to the surface.
Plus, the grates and knobs are dishwasher-safe. So you can place them straight into the dishwasher after cooking for a quick clean-up.
Pros
- Stylish white finish for a clean, white look in your kitchen
- Sealed border around the burner to contain your spills for easy cleaning
- Strong downdraft exhaust system
- Cast-iron grates
- Works with natural gas but a is propane convertible
Cons
- Some reviewers found the knobs were tight to turn
- Takes up a lot of space under your counter
Additional Specs
| Size | 30 inches |
| Number of Burners | 4 |
| BTU | 11,500 |
| CFM | 330 |
| Fan Speed | 3 Speeds – Hi/Med/Low |
| Warranty | Limited 1-Year |
2. KitchenAid KCGD506GS
For a bigger-sized cooktop for your kitchen, we love this 36-inch model.
This cooktop features five sealed burners with continuous cast-iron grates. So it’s great for effortlessly preparing your big meals at once for a large family or dinner event. Plus, the continuous grates are sturdy and durable. So you won’t have any hassle placing large or heavy pots and pans on this cooktop.
The stainless steel construction also adds to the durability of this cooktop. It’s wear and rust-resistant, so it’ll last you years of use.
We also love the stylish, stainless-steel control knobs on this gas cooktop. They are easy to use and add a stylish touch to the whole cooktop.
Finally, its powerful downdraft exhaust system performs well removing smoke and steam out of your air quickly. So you can enjoy a smoke and odor-free cooking experience.
Pros
- Solid control knobs
- Downdraft has great flow
- Electronic ignition for your easy operation
- Easy to clean stainless steel gas cooktop surface
Cons
- Hard to install
- Some reviewers noted flame disruption when you’re cooking on high heat
Additional Specs
| Size | 36 inches |
| Number of Burners | 5 |
| BTU | 5K – 17K |
| CFM | 300 |
| Fan Speed | 3-Speed: Hi/Med/Low |
| Warranty | 1 Year full warranty |
3. GE Profile PGP9830DJBB
This sleek black gas unit with downdraft is a great cooktop from a reliable brand.
Manufactured in the US, this gas downdraft cooktop has four all-purpose sealed burners with easy-to-use knobs. So you can cook any meal quickly and evenly with efficient heat distribution.
And many reviewers rave about the efficient performance of this cooktop, similar to a professional cooktop. So you can enjoy effortless cooking without having to wait for your pots or your pans to heat up.
But what really stands out is the stylish, black-glass finish construction of this gas cooktop. The glass surface is easy for you to wipe clean. And it adds a modern, glossy look to your kitchen. So it’s perfect if you love a clean, sleek aesthetic in your kitchen.
And the matte black controls with white details also add to the stylish look of this unit.
Pros
- Easy to operate
- 3 exhaust fan speeds for you to choose from
- Lights easily and quickly
- Grates are dishwasher-safe
- Compatible with both natural gas and propane (kit included)
Cons
Hard to configure during installation because the duct attached to the unit is low
Safety features stickers are hard to remove
Additional Specs
| Size | 30 inches |
| Number of Burners | 4 |
| BTU | 11,500 |
| CFM | 330 |
| Fan Speed | 3 Speeds – Hi/Med/Low |
| Warranty | Limited 1-Year |
4. KitchenAid KCGD500GSS
If you need to optimize space in your kitchen, this 30-inch stainless steel gas cooktop is the one for you!
With an efficient built-in 3-speed downdraft system, this Kitchenaid model has four sealed burners for all your cooking needs. So you can enjoy single, or multitask cooking without your steam or smoke hanging in the air.
It also has sturdy cast iron continuous grates. So you can slide your pots and pans across your cooktops sealed burners easily. These continuous cast-iron grates are perfect if you’re cooking in a hurry. Or, if you need to take your pan off the heat quickly.
Plus, the stainless steel surface finish makes it easy for you to clean up after cooking. You can easily wipe away any grease or spills without having to waste your time scrubbing. And the grates are easy for you to remove for cleaning too.
Finally, in case you’re using propane gas and not natural gas, this cooktop comes with a propane conversion kit.
Pros
- Powerful fan
- Compact size for space-saving in your kitchen
- Stylish stainless-steel material knob controls
Cons
- Some reviewers noted pitting in the stainless steel cooktop finish
- Doesn’t have a good high heat capacity for high temperature cooking
Additional Specs
| Size | 30 inches |
| Number of Burners | 4 |
| BTU | 5000 – 17000 |
| CFM | 300 |
| Fan Speed | 3 Speeds – Hi/Med/Low |
| Warranty | 1 Year full warranty |
Gas Cooktop With Downdraft Comparison Chart
| Product | Size | Nb of Burners | BTU | CFM | Fan Speed | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE Profile PGP9830TJWW | 30 inches | 4 | 11,500 | 330 | 3 Speeds - Hi/Med/Low | Limited 1-Year |
| KitchenAid KCGD506GS | 36 inches | 5 | 5K - 17K | 300 | 3-Speed: Hi/Med/Low | 1 Year full warranty |
| GE Profile PGP9830DJBB | 30 inches | 4 | 11,500 | 330 | 3 Speeds - Hi/Med/Low | Limited 1-Year |
| KitchenAid KCGD500GSS | 30 inches | 4 | 5000 - 17000 | 300 | 3 Speeds - Hi/Med/Low | 1 Year full warranty |
Jump to the Full Gas Cooktop With Downdraft Reviews
Disadvantages of Gas Cooktops With Downdraft
A gas downdraft cooktop is a great cooking solution for your kitchen. But it’s not for everyone.
Make sure you consider these disadvantages before purchasing your gas downdraft cooktop:
Blows Out The Flame
A few Kitchenaid reviewers noticed some flame disruption from the cooktop vents on the 30-inch model. The vent drafts are powerful. And, unlike electric downdraft cooktops, can pull your flame away from your pots and pans while cooking.
So, as the vents pull your steam, it also pulls your flame. This can be a hassle while you’re cooking and is something you’ll need to get used to when cooking with a powerful downdraft.
Less Efficient
Another drawback to downdraft ventilation systems is that they are less efficient than a range hood system. While they’re great for removing smoke and moisture from grilling, they have to work harder than a hood to do so.
This is because steam and air during cooking rises, so the downdraft system is fighting against the basic laws of physics. If steam rises too high, it won’t be sucked down.
Plus, there’s a limit to the level of efficiency a downdraft system can have. Because it will blow out the flame if it’s too powerful.
It’s also important to note that the vents will be ineffective at drawing steam from the air of far burners. So only the air from the burners nearest the vent will be sucked into the vents.
Take a look at this video to find out more about downdraft airflows:
Complicated Installation
Unlike electric cooktops, the installation process for your gas downdraft cooktop can be complicated. Because air from your cooktop is vented downward, it can be hard to put in the necessary ductwork. Your kitchen location and layout may make it more complicated, too.
And even if duct free ventilation kits do exist, we don’t recommend using them. A duct-free ventilation isn’t a true ventilator and won’t filter all pollutants. So they’re not a good fit for gas cooktops because of the release of carbon monoxide.
Besides, installing a gas cooktop with downdraft into your kitchen might add additional costs. You may need to adjust your layout to put in the ducts. But, a lot of models include recirculation kits and a replaceable filter.
Finally, you also have the disadvantages of using most gas cooktops such as gas leakage or hazards. And unlike electric cooktops and especially induction cooktops, they’re less energy efficient.
FAQ
Here are a few key details you need to know before buying your gas cooktop with downdraft.
What Companies Make Downdraft Gas Cooktop?
There are only a few companies that make downdraft gas cooktop ranges. These include Jennair, KitchenAid, Ge Profile, or Frigidaire.
Other well-known gas cooktop brands don’t sell gas cooktops with downdrafts. For example, Viking, Thermador, Wolf, Embava, or Bosch. But some of these brands do sell downdraft range hoods.
How Do I Prevent My Downdraft Vent From Sucking All the Fire From My Gas Burners?
If the flame is being affected while cooking, make sure you use a lower fan speed setting.
Also, make sure you use a higher heat setting to avoid any disruption to the flame (2). Flames on low heat are more likely to be affected while cooking.
Do Downdraft Ranges Need to Be Vented?
No, downdraft ranges do not need to be vented. They have built-in vents between the burners.
These built-in vents suck the smoke and steam through an exhaust pipe or filtration system beneath the cooktop. So they don’t need an external vent hood.
Now You’ve Got The Low-Down
Finding a gas cooking solution that fits your kitchen layout and style can feel like an overwhelming task. But, now you’ve got the low-down on gas cooktops with downdraft as a solution to your needs.
A gas cooktop with downdraft can save you space in the kitchen, and offer a stylish addition to fit your aesthetic.
Keep in mind our key features to look at before you buy. Think about the size and number of burners that will suit you most. And, consider the right material, CFM rating, and fan speed that’s best for your cooking style.
If you have any questions about a downdraft ventilation system, please ask us in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you. And if you found this article helpful, please share it with your friends!
About the Author
Since always, I am passionate about food; I enjoy writing and want to share my passion and offer quality articles to my readers. On Homekitchenland, I like to research, review, and compare kitchen appliances, write product reviews, and develop recipes.
