30-inch vs. 36-inch: should you switch?

Key differences between 30-inch and 36-inch cooktops

Cooktop width may be the most obvious difference when comparing 30-inch and 36-inch cooktops, but the differences don’t stop there. Find out below how differing cooktop dimensions can impact ventilation, functionality and installation requirements. 

• Cooktop width: As you may expect, 36-inch cooktops provide an additional six inches of width compared to their 30-inch counterparts, offering more room to work with on the cooking surface. 

• Ventilation requirements: Your range hood dimensions should be at least as wide as your cooktop for optimal ventilation, so 36-inch cooktops require a larger hood to ensure proper coverage.

• Available burners: Both cooktop sizes can come with a fifth burner, but the larger surface area of a 36-inch cooktop is better suited to accommodating extra burners to prevent cramping the cooktop surface. 

• Installation requirements: Cooktops fit into countertop cutouts, which need to be slightly smaller than the cooktop itself so the cooktop surface can extend beyond the cutout and onto the countertop. Generally, this means that larger cooktops require bigger cutouts for installation.

What to consider when deciding between a 30-inch and 36-inch cooktop

Choosing between a 30-inch and 36-inch cooktop ultimately comes down to your personal taste, kitchen’s layout, daily cooking habits, desired cooktop fuel type, ventilation requirements and budget. Explore five key considerations below to help guide your search. 

• Kitchen layout: Unless you plan to remodel, the size of your current cabinet cutout will dictate whether you opt for a 30-inch or 36-inch cooktop. Smaller cooktops are ideal for compact kitchens that may not have much countertop space for food prep, while 36-inch models may be ideal for larger kitchens with room to spare. It’s recommended to reserve at least 8 inches of counter space on either side of the cooktop to accommodate food prep.

• Cooking routines: Using a 36-inch cooktop to make meals for a larger family can give you more room to make multiple dishes or large batches at once. If you typically prepare smaller portions or simple meals, a 30-inch cooktop may be all you need to get the job done. Some 30-inch cooktops come equipped with a fifth burner—like this model from Whirlpool brand—but you may find less room to navigate large cookware. 

• Cooktop type: Installation and ventilation needs can differ depending on the fuel type you choose. For instance, gas cooktops may require a slightly larger cutout compared to electric or induction models.

• Range hood size: Your range hood should match the width of your cooktop to properly capture the smoke, grease and odors that rise while cooking. While 30-inch range hoods are the most common range hood size, 36-inch options like these Whirlpool^® models are available to help provide effective ventilation for larger cooktops. 

• Budget: 36-inch cooktops can be slightly more expensive than their 30-inch counterparts. It's also worth considering any renovations your space may need, as well as the cost of the cooktop itself and possibly a new range hood. Balancing all these factors can help you decide which size is right for your kitchen—and your budget.

Why choose a 30-inch cooktop?

A 30-inch cooktop may be the ideal fit for smaller kitchens, offering many of the same features as its larger 36-inch counterpart. These cooktops typically come at a lower price point than 36-inch models, and if you don’t often cook elaborate or large meals, the extra space may not be necessary.

Shop Whirlpool^® 30-inch Cooktops

Whirlpool^® 30-Inch Cooktops accommodate smaller spaces without sacrificing on performance. The SpeedHeat^™ Burner on select models generates the high heat needed to sear and boil quickly while a fifth burner on some cooktops gives you more room to choose the right burner for each dish.

Why choose a 36-inch cooktop?

A 36-inch cooktop offers extra space and sometimes five or six burners, rather than four. It’s a great choice for larger kitchens, especially if you often prepare big family meals or host gatherings. 36-inch cooktops add flexibility to juggle multiple dishes and sides with less hassle.

Shop Whirlpool^® 36-inch Cooktops

Available in gas and electric models, Whirlpool^® 36-Inch Cooktops give you the room you need to make more for the people you love. The FlexHeat^™ Triple Radiant Element on select models is like having three elements in one. A 6-inch inner ring is great for smaller pots and pans, while 9-inch and 12-inch outer rings make room to heat larger cookware. And with 36-inch range hoods available in a variety of configurations, you can get the venting power to match.

How to switch from a 30-inch to a 36-inch cooktop

Upgrading to a 36-inch cooktop may be achievable in any kitchen with enough space, but be aware that some renovations to your cabinetry may be necessary beforehand. Walk through a step-by-step overview for installing a new cooktop below, or find a more detailed explanation of the process with this guide.

Explore gas, electric and induction cooktops from Whirlpool brand

Whirlpool^® Cooktops have the features you need to move through dinner prep and cleanup without a hitch. On select gas cooktops, the FlexHeat^™ Burner uses two rows of flames to give you the evenly distributed high heat you need for rapid boiling and searing or the lower temperatures necessary for more delicate dishes. And with induction technology on some models, you can clean up quickly as the cooktop surrounding the elements stays cool, helping prevent baked-on messes.