RCA RCTES365 Sterling Collection 36 inch Electric Cooktop with 5 Elements, Hot Surface Indicator Light and Synchronizing Burner in Black

36 in. Sterling Collection Drop-In Electric Ceramic Glass Cooktop

Step into a new cooking experience with the RCA R-CTES365 ceramic glass electric cooktop. Designed with a modern, elegant look, it blends seamlessly into any kitchen while providing powerful performance. This cooktop includes four electric burners: one triple zone burner with a combined output of 2400W, two burners at 1200W each, one at 1600W, and a sync burner offering a total of 2000W. With nine power levels, you can tackle everything from gentle simmering to rapid boiling and pan frying. The triple zone and sync burner options offer the flexibility to accommodate cookware of various sizes. Cleaning is quick and easy thanks to the smooth ceramic glass surface. Part of the Sterling Collection which blends practical features with a modern design to offer a balanced option for those who value both convenience and style in their appliances.

• The Sterling Collection blends practical features with a modern design, offering a balanced option for those who value both convenience and style in their appliances
• Cooktop equipped with 5 electric surface burners: A 2400W total triple zone burner, two 1200W burners, a 1600W burner, and a 2000W total sync bridge
• Ceramic glass cooktop panels offer a sleek design with enormous heat resistance and stability
• Touch controls provide easy control of burner temperature settings, functions and timer
• Hot Surface Indicator Light will glow to alert any surface area that is too hot to touch
• Triple Zone Element offers flexibility for a variety of cookware sizes
• Synchronizing burner accommodates larger cookware such as griddles
• Safety lock prevents any unintended operation of the cooktop, offering added security
• Easy cleanup with the cooktop's smooth glass surface
• An all electrical power source makes the cooktop an eco-friendly option
• Electrical Requirements: 240V/60Hz, 3-Wire

• ETL Listed: ETL Listed products demonstrate compliance to North American safety standards published by relevant NRTLs (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories)

Why Buy RCA RCTES365 36 in. Sterling Collection Drop-In Electric Ceramic Glass Cooktop

• Versatile burner layout: Features a triple-zone burner, sync burner, and additional elements, allowing use of cookware of different sizes and supporting a wide range of cooking styles, from simmering to frying.
• Easy to clean: The smooth ceramic-glass surface wipes down quickly with no grates or burner parts to remove, keeping maintenance simple.
• Precise heat control: Nine adjustable power levels provide fine control over cooking temperature for sauces, sautés, or rapid boiling.
• Safer than gas: Electric operation eliminates open flames and reduces risks associated with gas, improving kitchen safety and indoor air quality.
• Modern, sleek design: The flat, stylish surface integrates seamlessly into contemporary kitchens, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

• Practical and convenient: Combines flexible burners, low maintenance, and straightforward operation, making it a convenient upgrade from older coil or gas cooktops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What burners and power levels does it offer?

A: The cooktop has five electric surface elements: one triple‑zone burner, two 1200 W burners, one 1600 W burner, and one 2000 W sync burner. It also offers nine adjustable power levels, allowing for everything from gentle simmering to rapid boiling or frying.

Q: What kind of surface does it have, and is it easy to clean?

A: It features a smooth ceramic‑glass surface, which makes cleaning easy since there are no coils or grates. Spills wipe off more easily than on traditional cooktops.

Q: What safety or convenience features does it include?

A: It has a “Hot Surface Indicator” light to warn when a zone is still hot, plus a safety lock to prevent accidental activation.

Q: What type of cookware works best with this cooktop?

A: Cookware should have a flat, smooth bottom for even heat transfer and to protect the glass surface. Lift cookware rather than sliding it to reduce scratching or damage.

Q: Can the cooktop get damaged, and how do I prevent that?

A: The glass‑ceramic surface can scratch or crack if heavy pots are dropped, rough-bottomed cookware is used, or very hot cookware is placed on a cold surface. To prevent damage, use flat-bottom pans, lift rather than slide cookware, and avoid abrupt temperature changes.

Pros and Cons of RCA RCTES365 36 in. Sterling Collection Drop-In Electric Ceramic Glass Cooktop

Pros

• Versatile burner layout: The triple-zone burner and sync burner support different cookware sizes and various cooking methods.
• Solid performance: Multiple wattage levels across four burners allow effective simmering, boiling, frying, and everyday cooking.
• Modern appearance: The sleek ceramic glass surface provides a clean, contemporary look for upgraded kitchen styling.
• Easy cleaning: The smooth glass top wipes down quickly without the need to remove grates or burner caps.
• Precise heat control: Nine power levels give greater accuracy for maintaining the ideal cooking temperature.
• Safer than gas: No open flame or gas line, making the cooktop safer and improving indoor air quality.

Cons

• Slower heat response: Ceramic electric cooktops take longer to heat up and cool down compared to gas or induction.
• Cookware sensitivity: Works best with flat-bottomed, properly sized pans; warped cookware may cause uneven heating.
• Surface is delicate: The glass-ceramic surface can scratch or crack if heavy or rough cookware is dragged or dropped.
• Retains heat: The surface stays hot after use, increasing the risk of accidental burns.

Conclusion

The RCA R-CTES365 is a strong choice for anyone seeking a modern, easy-to-clean cooktop with flexible burner configurations and reliable performance for everyday cooking. Its triple-zone and sync burners enhance versatility, while the sleek ceramic glass surface adds a polished look to the kitchen. Although slower heat response and surface delicacy are considerations, this cooktop provides excellent value for users who prefer electric cooking and want a balance of style, convenience, and functionality.