Kitchen
Scratch and dent cooktops
Most of a cooktop sits below the countertop. The burner box underneath can carry a dent without any effect, as long as the top surface and the burners are intact.
What to check before you buy
- Check the top surface first. On gas models look at the burner caps, the grates and the igniters; on glass models look for chips.
- Compare the cutout dimensions with your countertop opening. Replacing a cooktop with one of the same width and cutout saves a countertop modification.
- For downdraft models, check that the vent blower and any modules are included, because they are often sold separately.
36 inches or 30 inches
A 36-inch cooktop gives more room between pans. Even with the same number of burners, the extra width makes cooking with large pots easier.
Example cooktop models and prices
These listings come from this site’s earlier outlet pages and show the typical gap between retail and scratch and dent prices. They are historical references, not current offers. Models change every year; use the specs to compare with what you find today.
| Brand and model | Description | Retail | Outlet | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE JGB628BJBB | 36" gas cooktop, black, four sealed burners, 3 3/16" x 36" x 21" | $299 | 50% | |
| GE JGP628WW | 36" gas cooktop, white, four sealed burners | $299 | 50% | |
| GE 30" downdraft | 30" gas modular cooktop with three-speed downdraft vent, two sealed burners, continuous grates | $499 | 55% |