36" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop If you love to experiment and push culinary limits, you'll appreciate the power and versatility of this 36-inch cooktop. Five individual burners includes a powerful 20,000 BTU Dual Ring Burner that is among the most powerful in the industry. The eye-catching design includes Multi-Finish Knobs and the scratch-resistant CookShield Finish help protect the surface against stains that may occur with high-temperature cooking. * Full-Width Cast-Iron Grates * 6,000 Btu Even-Heat Simmer Burner * Electronic Ignition * Cookshield Finish * Multi-Finish Knobs * LP Conversion Kit * 20,000 Btu Professional Dual Ring Burner Full-Width Cast-Iron Grates Durable, continuous grates allow easy movement of pots and pans across the cooktop and add a premium, professional look. Why should you buy KitchenAid KCGS556ESS? * Exceptional Dual-Ring Center Burner: Ultimate VersatilityThe 20,000 BTU Professional Dual-Ring Burner lets you switch effortlessly between a small precise flame and a high-powered boil—all on the same burner. It's a single feature that does the job of two. * Precision Low-Heat SimmeringThe 6,000 BTU Even-Heat Simmer Burner offers controlled low heat for gently melting chocolate or simmering delicate sauces using a diffuser plate. * Durable, Easy-to-Clean DesignThe CookShield finish resists stains from high heat cooking and wipes clean with ease—no harsh cleaners required.Full-width cast-iron grates provide a robust cooking surface and are easy to clean. * Reliable Electronic IgnitionDirect spark ignition ensures dependable and airflow-friendly lighting—no pilot light necessary. * Fuel Flexibility & Outage CompatibilityIt includes an LP conversion kit making it easy to switch between natural gas and propane. Plus, the cooktop remains usable during power outages via manual ignition. * Modern and Practical FeaturesMulti-finish metal knobs deliver a premium aesthetic with tactile control.Compact yet spacious, the dimensions (~36″ W × 21″ D × 3-11/16″ H) fit modern kitchens and install neatly over built-in ovens. Frequently Asked Questions by Customers * What are the cutout dimensions required for installation?Answer: The recommended cutout size is approximately 35 5/8″ wide × 20″ deep. For complete installation details, refer to the included installation guide. * Are the knobs fully metal or do they have plastic components?Answer: The knobs have a sturdy metal finish, but the base—“sleeve portion”—is made of plastic. * Can it be used with propane (LP)? Is a conversion kit included?Answer: Yes — an LP conversion kit is included, allowing you to convert the cooktop for propane use. * Does the cooktop reconvene if a flame goes out (auto reignition)?Answer: No — unlike some upgraded models, the KCGS556ESS does not have automatic reignition. This feature is available on higher-end variants such as the KCGS956ESS, which also adds a torch burner and back-lit knobs. * Can you manually light the burners during a power outage?Answer: Yes — the cooktop is power outage compatible, so you can light the burners manually during blackouts. * What protects the cooktop surface from scratches and stains?Answer: It features a CookShield finish that resists high-heat stains and is easy to wipe clean—no harsh chemicals needed. * Do the grates come with protective bumpers to prevent scratching?Answer: Yes — the grates have rubber caps on the bottom to protect the surface from scratches. Pros and Cons of Buying KitchenAid 36" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop The 36" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop is designed for culinary enthusiasts who seek both power and versatility in their cooking appliances. With five individual burners, including a remarkable 20,000 BTU Professional Dual Ring Burner, this cooktop is engineered to handle a variety of cooking techniques, from high-heat searing to gentle simmering. Its sleek design, featuring Multi-Finish Knobs and a durable CookShield Finish, not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen but also ensures longevity and ease of maintenance. Pros * Powerful Burners: The 20,000 BTU Dual Ring Burner provides exceptional heat output, making it ideal for high-temperature cooking and quick meal preparation. * Versatile Cooking Options: The inclusion of a 6,000 BTU Even-Heat™ Simmer Burner allows for precise temperature control, perfect for delicate sauces and simmering. * Durable Finish: The CookShield Finish protects the cooktop surface from stains and scratches, ensuring it remains looking new even after extensive use. * Convenient Ignition: The electronic ignition system offers a reliable and easy way to start the burners without the need for matches or lighters. * Sturdy Grates: Full-width cast-iron grates provide a robust cooking surface that can accommodate large pots and pans, enhancing stability and heat distribution. Cons *