A cooktop is just the flat, top surface with burners where you can sear or saute, whereas a range features both an oven and a cooktop. Cooktops are incredibly versatile because they can be installed on almost any kitchen surface, don't take up much storage below the countertop, and come in a variety of sizes to suit your space.

Before installing a cooktop, there are a few steps you'll need to take in preparation. We've outlined five steps to prepare your space for the cooktop installation process.

Step 1: Decide on a Fuel Type
Step 2: Remove Your Existing Cooktop
Step 3: Measure Your Installation Space
Step 4: Measure & Clear the Delivery Path
Step 5: Prepare for Delivery & Installation

Step 1: Decide on a Fuel Type

Before installing a cooktop, the first step is deciding which fuel type works best for your home. There are three main fuel types for cooktops: gas, electric, and induction.

Gas: Gas cooktops are a popular pick for home chefs because they offer premium temperature control for searing, sauteing, or boiling. If you're interested in installing a gas cooktop, you'll need access to a gas line, a natural gas shutoff valve, and a 120V outlet.

Electric: Electric cooktops feature coils that are heated with electricity rather than gas. These cooktops can also transfer more heat from the coils to the pan, which means that there's less heat escaping into the air and heating your kitchen. Additionally, electric cooktops are ideal for rentals because they don't require you to install a gas line. All you need is access to a 120V or a 240V outlet and a 30-, 40-, or 50-amp circuit depending on the model you choose.

Induction: Induction cooktops use electromagnetic energy to quickly generate heat while the space around the burner remains cool. This type of cooktop requires pans made from compatible magnetic-based materials, such as magnetic stainless steel and cast iron. Induction cooktops also need access to a 240V outlet that is connected to a 40- or 50-amp circuit.

Tip!

To learn more about the different types of cooktops, read our guide Cooktop Buying Guide: Types of Cooktops & Which One You Need.

Step 2: Remove Your Existing Cooktop

To determine the right fit for your new cooktop, you'll need to remove the existing cooktop and measure the cut-out in your countertop. Follow these steps to remove your current cooktop:

1. Shut off the electricity and gas to the cooktop. For electric models, you'll need to find the location of the circuit and turn it off. Then check the amperage of the switch so that you can choose a new cooktop that is compatible. For gas cooktops, unplug the cooktop from the outlet and find the gas shut-off valve. Turn off the valve by turning the lever until it appears perpendicular to the supply line. After you've unplugged and turned the cooktop off, turn on all of the burners to release any leftover gas.
2. Remove the cooktop grates from the cooktop.
3. Unscrew any screws that keep the cooktop connected to the countertop.
4. Gently lift the cooktop from the countertop cut-out.

Step 3: Measure Your Installation Space

Now that you've removed the old cooktop, it's time to measure the cutout to find the right cooktop size. Here are our tips for measuring and recording cooktop measurements:

1. Measure the length and width of the cooktop, taking into account that the new cooktop will have a lip that overlaps the opening of the cutout by ½" to 1".
2. Then measure the space between the cutout and the back of the counter as well as the space between the cutout and the front of the counter. This will help you account for any overlap in the back or front of the cooktop.
3. Measure the space below the cutout to see if there's enough room for the proper hookups, such as gas lines, outlets, or ventilation. Though you can install drawers below the cooktop, it's best to leave at least 8" of space under the cabinet.
4. Finally, you'll need to take two measurements: the space above the cooktop and below any cabinets, range hoods, or microwaves, and the space beside the cooktop where any cabinets might be. You'll want to make sure that the cooktop has at least 24" to 36" inches of room above and beside it.

Step 4: Measure & Clear the Delivery Path

Like any appliance delivery, it's important that you walk the delivery path and measure any doorways, hallways, or stairwells that your new appliance may have to pass through. Try to avoid any paths that have tight corners and make sure to clear any furniture out of the way to ensure a smooth delivery.

Step 5: Prepare for Delivery & Installation

After you've decided which fuel type and measured the space, you can order your new cooktop and prepare for delivery. Remember to clear the path of any furniture to speed up the delivery process.

If you're replacing an existing cooktop, you can remove it yourself (like in the previous step) or use Wayfair's haul-away service. This service takes care of the removal and disposal of your old appliance for one less thing on your to-do list.

It's also important that your new cooktop gets installed properly, so we recommend hiring a professional for a seamless cooktop installation. Wayfair also offers an installation service to take care of the process for you, making it easy for your new cooktop to be delivered and installed on the same day.

You May Also Need

Following these steps will make the cooktop installation simple. Browse our selection of gas, electric, and induction cooktops to find one that completes your kitchen.