The vast majority of cooktops sold in the U.S. are either 30″ or 36″ in width. However, there has been a very good market over the years for cooktops ranging from 42″ – 48″, with a 45″ width being the most common size in this X-Large cooktop category.

In an effort to reduce their model lineups, some manufacturers have discontinued 45″ cooktops. This has created a problem for consumers needing to replace their old 45″ cooktop since there is now a very limited selection of cooktops that will fit the hole left when the old cooktop is removed. Here are some suggestions and workarounds if you find yourself in this situation.

Viking RDECU2566BSB

Dacor SMG466

The Viking Range Company does still make a 45″ wide electric cooktop model RDECU2566BSB. Dacor makes a 46″ wide gas cooktop model SGM466, and Miele makes 42 1/2″ wide cooktops in both gas and electric. While these options may or may not provide the perfect fit for your existing cooktop there are some workarounds for you to consider. If you are replacing a 45″ wide cooktop with a 46″ wide cooktop, you may be able to just cut the existing whole a bit wider to accommodate the larger unit. On the other hand, if the replacement cooktop is not quite wide enough to fill the hole, there are companies that make filler kits such as Micro-trim. Also, It might be feasible to just replace the entire countertop. That way you can cut the opening to fit a new cooktop.

Some of these 45″ cooktops were installed in islands and peninsulas and have downdraft ventilation systems. Jenn-Air still makes 45″ downdraft cooktops in both electric and gas.

Jenn-Air JED8345ADB

The electric model JED8345ADB comes with a grill in the left bay, and two open bays that will accept 2 element radiant or coil cartridges, as well as a griddle that will fit over the grill element. The grill may also be removed and replaced with a coil or radiant cartridge to provide a total of 6 electric cooking elements.

Jenn-Air JGD8345ADB

The gas model JGD8345ADB comes complete with a gas grill in the left bay, and fixed gas cartridges in each of the two right bays. The grill is removable and can be replaced with an additional gas cartridge giving the homeowner a total of 6 gas burners. The Jenn-Air center downdraft eliminates the need for an expensive rear downdraft or island hood, and provides effective, economical, and unobtrusive ventilation. This is a great solution if you are replacing a Jenn-Air or other downdraft vented cooktop. If you have a traditional overhead vent system, you would need to reconfigure your ducting and remove the overhead system.

Wolf Cooktops and Modules

Finally, another interesting possibility for replacing a 45″ cooktop would be to combine 3 – 15″ cooking modules or a 30″ cooktop and 1 – 15″ cooking module. Wolf has a good selection of modules and also has trim pieces to make them fit together.

If this all sounds a bit complicated and confusing…well, it can be. It's a good idea to get some expert advice. First, measure your existing cooktop outside dimensions. If you have the old installation instructions with the model number and cutout dimensions that would be helpful also. Then call or visit the experts at UAKC, Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center. They'll be able to recommend the best solutions for your specific situation.

Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center

facebook twitter

One solution that often presents itself is the use of a downdraft cooktop with interchangeable modules. GE and Jenn-Air are the dominant suppliers of these products. GE’s modular downdraft cooktops are limited to 30″ gas and electric units. Jenn-Air has an extensive array of modular cooktops in both gas and electric from single module 18″ units all the way up to 48″ cooktops.

Jenn-Air gas modular cooktops come complete with a grill on the left side (bay) of the vent, and gas burners on the right side. The grill can be complemented with an optional griddle that fits on top, OR the grill can be removed and replaced with a 2-burner gas module.

Jenn-Air electric modular cooktops come with a replaceable grill unit in the bay to the left of the vent, and open bays to the right. Depending on the configuration and number of open bays, customers can add an additional grill as shown below, a griddle, radiant (smooth glass) cartridges, and even a traditional coil-type cartridge.

There are a host of accessories to consider, such as griddles, woks and grill covers. The cooktops even come in different “styles” such as:

Pro-Style (48″ gas):

Designer (traditional) Series:

Expression (flush) Series:

Sometimes, as shown below these cooktops can even be “mixed” to provide gas and electric (dual fuel) options. (Shown w/fixed 4 burner gas downdraft cooktop, and modular electric with grill cartridge).

Make an appointment with the Jenn-Air experts at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center for answers to all your cooktop concerns.
Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center
12025 Ventura Blvd. Ste B-105
Studio City, CA 91604
PH 877 696-2987