36" Electric Cooktop with 5 Elements and Touch-Activated ControlsThis 36" electric cooktop combines the lasting beauty of a black glass surface with the performance of a 10'' Even-Heat Ultra Power Element with Simmer Setting, two 6'' Even-Heat Elements with Melt Setting, and 12''/9''/6'' Triple-Ring Round Element that maximizes your flexibility with three distinct rings to allow for element selection based on cookware size. * 6'' Even-Heat Element With Melt Setting * Hot Surface Indicator * 8'' 1800-Watt Round Element * 6'' 1200-Watt Round Element * 12''/9''/6'' Triple-Ring Round Element * 10''/6'' Even-Heat Ultra Power Element With Simmer Setting * Touch-Activated Controls Multiple Cooking ElementsCook several dishes simultaneously with different heating areas.Safety IndicatorsKnow when the surface is still hot to avoid burns.User-Friendly ControlsAdjust settings easily with responsive touch controls.Consistent HeatingAchieve uniform heat distribution for even cooking.Control LockPrevent accidental changes and enable safer cleaning.Cooktop * Black - KCES956KBL * Stainless Steel - KCES956KSS Why should you buy KitchenAid KCES956KBL/KCES956KSS?Integrated Ventilation Design * Downdraft ventilation built directly into the cooking surface, eliminating the need for a separate hood * Smoke and odors are either vented outside or filtered and recirculated inside * Convertible to duct-free operation using an optional kit, ideal for installations where ducting is limited Versatile Heating Elements * 10'' Even-Heat Ultra Power Element with simmer setting provides stable, consistent heat for both high and low temperature cooking * 6'' Even-Heat Element with Melt Setting perfect for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or butter without scorching * 12''/9''/6'' Triple-Ring Round Element adapts to cookware size—use the full 12" surface for larger pots or smaller inner rings for smaller pans * 8'' round element delivers up to 1800 watts for efficient everyday cooking * 6'' round element provides up to 1200 watts of power for daily meal prep Intuitive Controls and Safety * Touch-activated controls offer a sleek, easy-to-use experience for precise cooking adjustments * Power-on indicator light shows at a glance when an element is active * Hot surface indicator alerts you if any area of the cooktop is still hot, helping prevent burns * Control lock disables cooking mode for safe cleaning Durability & Premium Design * CookShield finish on the glass surface protects against scratches, keeping it looking pristine even with frequent use  * Stainless steel control knobs provide a sturdy, premium feel that enhances the overall cooktop design Powerful Venting Performance * While this model focuses on integrated heating elements, pairing it with proper ventilation ensures excellent cooking air quality Frequently Asked Questions by Customers * What sizes are the heating elements?There’s a 10''/6'' Ultra Power element, two 6'' elements, an 8'' element, and a 12''/9''/6'' triple-ring element. * What is the Simmer Setting for?It lets you cook at low temperatures without burning, perfect for sauces or gentle cooking. * Can I melt chocolate or butter on this cooktop?Yes, the 6'' Even-Heat element has a special melt setting for that. * What does the triple-ring element do?It lets you choose from three ring sizes to match your cookware, saving energy and improving cooking. * How do I control the cooktop?You use easy touch-activated controls. * How do I know if the cooktop is still hot?A hot surface indicator light shows when the surface is still warm. * Can I lock the controls?Yes, the control lock keeps the cooktop off when cleaning or not in use. * What kind of cookware works best?Cookware that matches the element sizes works best for even heating. Pros and Cons of Buying KitchenAid 36" Electric Cooktop with 5 Elements and Touch-Activated ControlsThe 36" Electric Cooktop with 5 Elements and Touch-Activated Controls is designed to enhance your cooking experience with its sleek black glass surface and advanced heating technology. Featuring a variety of elements, including the innovative Even-Heat technology, this cooktop offers versatility and precision for all your culinary needs. With options ranging from simmering delicate sauces to boiling water quickly, this cooktop aims to meet the demands of both novice and experienced cooks alike.Pros * Versatile Heating Options: The cooktop includes a 10''/6'' Even-Heat Ultra Power Element with a simmer setting, allowing for precise temperature control. Additionally, the 12''/9''/6'' Triple-Ring Round Element provides flexibility in choosing the right size for your cookware. * Melt Setting: The two 6'' Even-Heat Elements come with a melt setting, perfect for gently melting chocolate or butter without