KitchenAid KCGS956ESS 36 inch Gas Cooktop with 5 Sealed Burners including a 20000 BTU Burner, Removable Griddle, LP Conversion Kit Included, in Stainless Steel

36" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop with Griddle

Five burners and a removable griddle give this 36-inch gas cooktop the power and versatility challenging recipes demand. The 20,000 BTU Professional Dual Ring Burner is among the most powerful in the industry, and our innovative Even-Heat™ Torch Burner provides even coverage to ensure proper heating without scorching. Multi-Finish Knobs and the scratch-resistant CookShield Finish help protect the surface against stains that may occur with high-temperature cooking.

• 10,000 BTU Even-Heat™ Torch Burner
• 20,000 BTU Professional Dual Ring Burner
• Removable Griddle Included
• CookShield Finish

• Multi-Finish Back-Lit Knobs

Electronic Ignition and Automatic Re-Ignition

Lights burners with an electric spark instead of a pilot light. For more reliable performance, burners are relit if the flame is blown out.

Full-Width Cast-Iron Grates

Enhance the beautiful look of the cooktop and allow easy movement of cookware around the entire cooking surface.

LP Conversion Kit

Allows you to convert the cooktop so it can be used with LP gas.

Why should you buy KitchenAid KCGS956ESS?

• Powerful, Flexible Cooking—with a Touch of Precision
  20,000 BTU Professional Dual-Ring Burner offers seamless versatility—use the small flame for gentle simmering or the full ring for rapid boiling, all in one burner.
  10,000 BTU Even-Heat Torch Burner ensures uniform pan coverage with no hot spots or uneven cooking.
  6,000 BTU Even-Heat Simmer Burner with a diffuser plate delivers delicate low-heat control, perfect for melting or slow simmering.
• Built-In Griddle—Versatility Meets Convenience
  Comes with a removable griddle that can be placed on the right, left, or center of the cooktop—ideal for pancakes, quesadillas, grilled sandwiches, and more.
• Reliable, Safe, and Easy to Maintain
  Electronic ignition with automatic reignition relights the burner if the flame accidentally goes out, providing added safety.
  CookShield finish resists high-heat stains and allows easy cleanup without harsh chemicals.
  Full-width cast-iron grates are durable, dishwasher-safe, and designed for easy maintenance.
• Modern Convenience & Accessibility
  Multi-finish back-lit metal knobs illuminate when a burner is active—combining style with safety.
  Includes an LP conversion kit, allowing you to easily switch from natural gas to propane.
  Power outage compatible—burners can be manually lit if electricity is unavailable.
• Accessible and Custom-Friendly Design
  ADA compliant for height and side-reach accessibility, ensuring usability for all.
  Designed to install over a built-in oven, making it perfect for a streamlined, space-efficient kitchen layout.

Frequently Asked Questions by Customers

• What features does the KCGS956ESS have that the KCGS556ESS doesn't?
  It includes a 10,000 BTU Even-Heat Torch Burner, automatic reignition, multi-finish back-lit knobs, removable griddle, and heating-element-on indicator light—features not found on the KCGS556ESS.
• Is the cooktop body stainless steel? Are replacement parts available?
  Yes, the cooktop body is made of stainless steel, and burner parts are replaceable—spare parts can be ordered from the KitchenAid parts center.
• Does it require external ventilation or ducting?
  No—it doesn’t vent outdoors by design, though local codes may still recommend some form of ventilation.
• How do I clean up spills, and does the stainless finish scratch easily?
  The stainless steel surface cleans easily, especially when wiped with a soft cloth and mild cleaner; users report minimal issues with scratches.
• What are the required countertop cutout dimensions?
  The recommended countertop cutout for installation is approximately 35 5/8″ wide × 20″ deep.
• Can I get replacement parts for missing burner caps?
  Yes—replacement parts, such as burner caps, are available at the KitchenAid parts website or via customer support by phone.
• Is there any information on what to do if I need parts or service quickly?
  Parts like the LP conversion kit and installation hardware are available upon request.

Pros and Cons of Buying KitchenAid 36" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop with Griddle

The 36" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop with Griddle is designed for culinary enthusiasts who seek both power and versatility in their cooking appliances. With five burners, including a high-performance 20,000 BTU Professional Dual Ring Burner and a 10,000 BTU Even-Heat™ Torch Burner, this cooktop is equipped to handle a variety of cooking tasks. The inclusion of a removable griddle further enhances its functionality, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy preparing diverse and challenging recipes.

Pros

• Powerful Burners: The 20,000 BTU Professional Dual Ring Burner is one of the most powerful options available, allowing for rapid heating and efficient cooking.
• Even Heating: The 10,000 BTU Even-Heat™ Torch Burner ensures consistent heat distribution, reducing the risk of scorching and providing better cooking results.
• Versatile Cooking Options: With five burners and a removable griddle, users can easily prepare multiple dishes simultaneously or experiment with different cooking techniques.
• Durable Finish: The CookShield Finish is scratch-resistant and helps protect the cooktop surface from stains, making it easier to maintain and clean.
• Stylish Design: The Multi-Finish Back-Lit Knobs add a modern touch to the cooktop, enhancing its aesthetic appeal while providing functional benefits.

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: Gas cooktops may require professional installation, which can add to the overall cost and complexity of setup.
• Price Point: High-performance cooktops often come with a higher price tag, which may not fit every budget.
• Learning Curve: For novice cooks, the variety of burners and settings may require some time to master, potentially leading to initial cooking challenges.

The 36" 5-Burner Gas Cooktop with Griddle is a powerful and versatile cooking appliance that caters to both experienced chefs and home cooks looking to elevate their culinary skills. With its high BTU burners, innovative heating technology, and durable design, it offers a range of benefits that can enhance the cooking experience. However, potential buyers should consider the size, installation requirements, and price before making a decision. Overall, this cooktop stands out as a strong contender for those seeking a reliable and efficient cooking solution.