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How to Choose the Perfect 36" Induction Cooktop

by Plaza Appliance Mart

Cooking on Induction Cooktop with Downdraft

At a Glance:

Why 36 Inches is The Perfect Size For an Induction Cooktop?

6 Best 36 Inches Induction Cooktops

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Plaza Appliance?

In the ever-evolving world of kitchen technology, induction cooktops have emerged as a game-changer, offering a blend of efficiency, safety, and precision that traditional cooking methods can’t match. Unlike gas or electric cooktops that use direct heat, induction cooktops use electromagnetic energy to heat cookware directly.

This method not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures that the cooktop surface remains relatively cool to the touch. With their sleek design, energy efficiency, and enhanced control over cooking temperatures, induction cooktops are quickly becoming a staple in modern kitchens. If you’re considering upgrading your kitchen, an induction cooktop is a decision you won’t regret.

Explore Induction Cooktop Options

Find the best induction cooktop at Plaza Appliance Mart. Discover the latest in cooking technology and learn how induction cooking can help your culinary needs.

Induction Cooktops

Learn more - Cooktop Buying Guide: How to Choose a Cooktop for Your Kitchen.

Why 36 Inches is The Perfect Size For an Induction Cooktop?

When it comes to choosing the right size for your induction cooktop, the 36-inch model stands out as a top choice for many homeowners.

But what makes this size so popular? Let’s explore the benefits that come with opting for a 36-inch induction cooktop.

Learn more - Induction cooking—here's why you should make the switch.

Ideal for Larger Families and Entertaining:

A 36-inch induction cooktop typically comes with five or six burners, offering ample space to cook multiple dishes simultaneously.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing meals for a gathering, this size allows you to juggle several pots and pans with ease, making it perfect for those who love to entertain or have a busy household.

Learn more about leveling up your kitchen design - Spice Up Your Kitchen Game with a THOR Cooktop.

Enhanced Flexibility in Cooking:

The larger surface area of a 36-inch cooktop provides greater flexibility in your cooking options. You can use a variety of cookware sizes, from small saucepans to large griddles, without feeling cramped. Some models even feature bridging elements, allowing you to combine two burners for larger cookware, further enhancing your cooking versatility.

Learn more - Redesigning Your Kitchen? Here’s Why a Cooktop Is Better Than a Range.

Balanced Aesthetics and Functionality:

A 36-inch induction cooktop strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics. It fits well in most kitchen designs, offering a substantial cooking area without overwhelming the space. Its sleek, modern appearance can seamlessly integrate into various kitchen styles, making it both a practical and visually appealing choice.

Optimal Power Distribution:

With more space comes the potential for more powerful cooking zones. A 36-inch cooktop can accommodate higher wattage burners, which means faster cooking times and better heat distribution. This is particularly beneficial when you need to bring large pots of water to a boil quickly or when searing meat at high temperatures.

Future-Proofing Your Kitchen:

Investing in a 36-inch induction cooktop is also a way to future-proof your kitchen. As your cooking needs evolve, having a larger cooktop ensures you won’t outgrow your cooking space. Whether you’re expanding your culinary repertoire or cooking for more people in the future, this size offers the capacity to meet those needs.

6 Best 36 Inches Induction Cooktops

Choosing the right induction cooktop can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available.

To help narrow down your choices, we’ve compiled a list of the six best 36-inch induction cooktops on the market today.

Each of these models stands out for its innovative features, design, and overall performance, making them top contenders for your kitchen upgrade.

Frigidaire Gallery 36" Black Induction Cooktop

Frigidaire Gallery 36in Black Induction Cooktop

Frigidaire Gallery Induction Cooktop

The Frigidaire Gallery 36" Black Induction Cooktop is a powerhouse in the kitchen, offering a blend of affordability, efficiency, and style.

Features & Benefits:

  • Five Cooking Zones: This cooktop features five induction zones, including a powerful 3800W element, perfect for quickly boiling water or searing meats.
  • Even Heat Distribution: The induction technology ensures even heat distribution, eliminating hotspots and ensuring your food is cooked to perfection every time.
  • Auto Sizing Pan Detection: The cooktop automatically adjusts the heating element to the size of your pan, making it energy-efficient and ensuring optimal cooking performance.
  • Sleek Touch Controls: With easy-to-use touch controls, adjusting temperatures and cooking settings is straightforward and intuitive.
  • Quick Boil Feature: Save time with the quick boil function, ideal for getting dinner on the table faster.

Why It’s One of the Best: The Frigidaire Gallery offers excellent value for its price, providing a range of high-end features without breaking the bank. Its powerful heating capabilities and user-friendly design make it a favorite among busy families and cooking enthusiasts alike.

LG 36” Black Ceramic Smart Induction Cooktop

LG 36in Black Ceramic Smart Induction Cooktop

LG Smart Induction Cooktop

LG’s 36” Black Ceramic Smart Induction Cooktop combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek design, making it a standout choice for any modern kitchen.

Features & Benefits:

  • Smart Technology Integration: With Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with smart home systems, you can control your cooktop remotely using your smartphone or voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant.
  • SmoothTouch™ Glass Controls: The smooth, seamless glass touch controls not only enhance the cooktop’s aesthetic appeal but also make cleaning a breeze.
  • Powerful Heating Elements: This model includes a 3200W power burner, perfect for rapid cooking, and multiple simmer settings for more delicate dishes.
  • Bridging Zones: Two of the burners can be bridged to create a larger cooking zone, ideal for griddles or oversized pans.
  • Child Lock Feature: Safety is paramount with LG’s child lock feature, preventing accidental adjustments or activations.

Why It’s One of the Best: The LG 36” induction cooktop excels in both form and function. Its smart features and powerful performance make it a versatile addition to any kitchen, especially for tech-savvy users who appreciate the convenience of remote control.

KitchenAid 36" Black Induction Cooktop

KitchenAid 36in Black Induction Cooktop

KitchenAid Induction Cooktop

KitchenAid is synonymous with quality, and their 36" Black Induction Cooktop is no exception. This cooktop is designed for serious cooks who demand precision and reliability.

Features & Benefits:

  • Even-Heat™ Technology: Ensures consistent, even heating across the entire cooking surface, perfect for delicate recipes that require precise temperature control.
  • Touch-Activated Controls: The intuitive controls are easy to navigate, allowing you to adjust heat levels with a simple tap.
  • Boost Function: The boost function provides a quick surge of power, ideal for rapidly bringing water to a boil or achieving a perfect sear on meats.
  • Five Induction Elements: With five elements, including a 3700W power element, this cooktop offers plenty of space and power for cooking multiple dishes at once.
  • Pan Size Detection: Automatically detects the size of your cookware and adjusts the heat accordingly, ensuring energy efficiency.

Why It’s One of the Best: KitchenAid’s 36" induction cooktop is a top choice for culinary enthusiasts who value precision. Its Even-Heat™ technology and robust power options make it an excellent tool for both everyday cooking and gourmet meal preparation.

Featured Review of KitchenAid 36" Black Induction Cooktop:

“Love this cooktop! The numbers are a bit small but the performance is superb. Thought it would be difficult to transition from Viking gas cooktop to induction but it has been a delight!!”

Café 36" Stainless Steel Induction Cooktop

Café 36in Stainless Steel Induction Cooktop

Cafe Induction Cooktop

The Café 36" Stainless Steel Induction Cooktop brings a touch of luxury to your kitchen with its sleek design and high-end features.

Features & Benefits:

  • Gourmet Guided Cooking: This unique feature pairs with the Hestan Cue smart pan to provide guided cooking instructions, taking the guesswork out of meal preparation.
  • Precision Temperature Control: Achieve perfect results with precise temperature control that allows for simmering, searing, and everything in between.
  • SyncBurners™ Feature: Connect two burners to create a larger cooking surface, ideal for large pots or griddles.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: Control your cooktop from anywhere with Wi-Fi connectivity, and receive updates or alerts directly to your smartphone.
  • Sleek Stainless Steel Finish: The stainless steel trim adds a touch of elegance, making this cooktop a focal point in your kitchen.

Why It’s One of the Best: The Café 36" induction cooktop combines advanced technology with sophisticated design. Its guided cooking feature and Wi-Fi connectivity make it a perfect choice for those who want a high-end, connected kitchen experience.

Bosch Benchmark 36" Black Induction Cooktop

Bosch Benchmark 36in Black Induction Cooktop

Bosch Black Induction Cooktop

Bosch is known for its precision engineering, and the Benchmark 36" Black Induction Cooktop lives up to that reputation. This model is built for performance and durability.

Features & Benefits:

  • FlexInduction® Technology: This technology allows you to combine cooking zones into larger, flexible zones, perfect for accommodating different cookware sizes.
  • PowerMove™ Feature: Easily switch between power levels by simply moving your pan across the cooktop, offering a seamless cooking experience.
  • AutoChef® Technology: Maintains exact frying temperatures for consistent, restaurant-quality results.
  • High-Resolution TFT Display: The sleek display makes it easy to monitor and adjust cooking settings, providing a clear view of your cooktop’s status.
  • Child Safety Lock: Prevents accidental operation, ensuring safety in households with children.

Why It’s One of the Best: The Bosch Benchmark cooktop is designed for those who demand the best in performance and flexibility. Its advanced features, like FlexInduction® and AutoChef®, make it a top contender for serious cooks who want precision and versatility in their kitchen.

Featured Review of Bosch Benchmark 36" Black Induction Cooktop:

“I'd recommend this item. I think it's among the best induction stovetops available. It's also a great value for what you get. The controls are easy to use, it's super fast and attractive as well. I'll never go back to electric or gas.”

Monogram 36" Silver Induction Cooktop

Monogram 36in Silver Induction Cooktop

Monogram Silver Induction Cooktop

The Monogram 36" Silver Induction Cooktop is a premium option that offers a combination of style, power, and innovation, making it a great choice for luxury kitchens.

Features & Benefits:

  • Silver Finish: The unique silver finish adds a sophisticated touch to any kitchen, standing out from the typical black cooktop designs.
  • Precision Cooking: With advanced technology, this cooktop offers precise temperature control, ensuring your dishes turn out exactly as intended.
  • Customizable Settings: Tailor your cooking experience with customizable settings that allow you to save your favorite temperature and power levels.
  • Powerful Performance: The 3700W power burner is perfect for rapid boiling or high-heat cooking, while the simmer settings ensure gentle heating for delicate recipes.
  • Smart Connectivity: Compatible with smart home devices, allowing you to control and monitor your cooktop remotely.

Why It’s One of the Best: The Monogram 36" Silver Induction Cooktop is designed for those who want a statement piece in their kitchen. Its unique design, combined with powerful performance and smart features, makes it a top choice for luxury homes.

FAQ

As you explore your options for the perfect 36 induction cooktop, you might have some questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common inquiries to help you make an informed decision.

Where can I find 36-inch induction cooktops in North Carolina?

You can find 36-inch induction cooktops at a variety of retailers across North Carolina, including major appliance stores like Best Buy, Lowe’s, and Home Depot. Additionally, specialty kitchen stores and local appliance dealers often carry a selection of high-end induction cooktops. I

f you prefer online shopping, retailers like Amazon, AJ Madison, and Appliances Connection offer a wide range of options that can be delivered directly to your home.

What is an induction cooktop?

An induction cooktop is a type of stove that uses electromagnetic energy to heat pots and pans directly, rather than heating the cooktop surface. This method is not only more energy-efficient but also provides faster and more precise heating.

Induction cooktops are known for their safety, as the surface remains cool to the touch, reducing the risk of burns. They are also easy to clean, as spills don’t bake onto the surface.

Are induction cooktops worth it?

Absolutely! Induction cooktops offer numerous advantages over traditional gas or electric stoves. They heat up faster, provide more precise temperature control, and are safer to use.

Additionally, induction cooktops are more energy-efficient, as they directly heat your cookware instead of wasting energy heating the cooktop itself. While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term benefits, including energy savings and enhanced cooking performance, make them a worthwhile investment.

How do I clean and maintain my 36-inch induction cooktop?

Cleaning an induction cooktop is simple and straightforward. Since the surface doesn’t get as hot as traditional cooktops, spills are less likely to burn, making them easy to wipe away.

Use a soft cloth or sponge with a gentle cleanser designed for glass surfaces to keep your cooktop looking new. Avoid abrasive pads or harsh chemicals, as these can scratch or damage the surface.

Why Trust Plaza Appliance Mart?

Plaza Appliance Mart is a local, family-owned, appliance store in North Carolina where you can get personalized, expert service that you won’t find at the big box stores. Plaza Appliance Mart is YOUR source for competitive prices with knowledgeable in-store professionals here to help you every step of the way, whether you need to replace an old appliance, or if you're remodeling and need an entire kitchen full of new brand-name products. And, our delivery and installation specialists will assure that your new appliances arrive safely and are installed properly.

If you were to ask the employees at Plaza Appliance Mart about their roles in the company, they'd say they're not just employees, they're family. So as you might imagine. a team of professionals like this who are already so tightly knit and bonded together make for a perfect partner with the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte. Apart from their community ties, Plaza Appliance is an accredited Better Business Bureau company with an A+ Rating.

Shop 36in Induction Cooktops at Plaza Appliance Mart

Stop by Plaza’s Charlotte, Huntersville, Matthews, or Pineville locations to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop 36in induction cooktops online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the perfect cooktop — whether you call us at 704-568-7600, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.