How to Install a Gas Cooktop

A gas cooktop will enhance your kitchen's performance and beauty, while saving you hours of preparation and clean-up time. Replacing an electric range with a gas cooktop will also lower your energy bills. Follow these guidelines to install your gas cooktop safely and effectively.

Locate the cooktop away from the kitchen sink area, any air conditioning vents or windows. It will need 24 inches of counter depth from top to base to fit into the counter. Ensure you have at least 31 inches of clear space above the cooktop to install a venting range hood. Remove any cabinets directly above the cooktop location.

Measure the cooktop from front to back, and add 1/8-inch for clearance for the cooktop backguard. Install the vent pipe and vent hood, then install the cooktop directly below it. Provide 3 inches of vertical space on each side of the cooktop for heat venting. To do this cut into the cabinet dividers ½-inch below the top and 3 inches down in a rectangle. Reinforce the cabinet supports with 3x6 wood blocks at the front and rear corners where you will install the cooktop.

Round the front corners with a sander to provide clearance for the front edge of the cooktop to be set into the countertop. Drill the 4 screw holes into the countertop base that will support the cooktop.

Turn off the electrical supply at the circuit box while installing the cooktop. Unpack the cooktop from its box. Remove the dials and grates on top of the burners to make it easier to carry. Place the cooktop into the countertop and connect the gas supply and the electrical switch. Reattach the dials to the cooktop. Fasten the cooktop frame in place with screws.

Level the cooktop with the attached leveling screws at the rear. Check with the level to see it is set in straight. Remove the shipping screw from the center bottom of the cooktop. Do not caulk or seal around the edge of the cooktop, as it must be accessible for service. Restore the electrical supply by resetting the circuit box.

Place the grates correctly on the burners. Check that all gas controls are at OFF before you test the cooktop. Turn on the cooktop's gas supply and check the individual burners one at a time, rotating their dials fully from the highest to lowest setting. Confirm that all burner ignitors are activating correctly. The gas flame should be blue and steady for proper cooking function. If there is any problem with the gas flow, or you smell gas, shut off all parts of the cooktop and leave the house. Go outside and call the gas company and a professional appliance installer to solve the problem.