KitchenAid KCGS556ESS 36 inch Gas Cooktop with 5 Sealed Burners including a 20000 BTU Burner, Electronic Ignition, in Stainless Steel

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 Versatility
  The 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 Simmering
  The 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 Design
  The 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 Ignition
  Direct spark ignition ensures dependable and airflow-friendly lighting—no pilot light necessary.
• Fuel Flexibility & Outage Compatibility
  It 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 Features
  Multi-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

• Size: The 36-inch size may not be suitable for smaller kitchens or limited counter space, potentially making it less accessible for some users.
• Installation Complexity: Professional installation may be required, which could add to the overall cost and time before the cooktop is ready for use.
• Price Point: High-performance cooktops often come with a higher price tag, which may not fit every budget.
• Heat Distribution: While powerful, some users may find that the high BTU burners can lead to uneven cooking if not monitored closely.

The 36" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop is an excellent choice for those who are passionate about cooking and desire a high-performance appliance that can handle a variety of culinary tasks. With its powerful burners, durable construction, and user-friendly features, it stands out as a top contender in the market. However, potential buyers should consider their kitchen space, budget, and installation requirements before making a decision. Overall, this cooktop is a worthy investment for serious home chefs looking to elevate their cooking experience.