Ranges: Gas Cooktops

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When it comes to gas cooking surfaces, there are several different burner types to consider. First is the open burner. This burner configuration is the least-expensive but performs very well. One downside to the open burner configuration is that spills can pass through the top surface and into the pan below, which must be cleaned periodically. Sealed burners, on the other hand, are the most popular type. This burner is sealed to the surface and contains spills, making cleanup a breeze. The heat output of the burner is measured in BTUs. The higher the BTU rating, the hotter the cooking surface. High-output burners are great if you're looking to bring a large pot of water to a quick boil, but today you'll find many manufacturers boasting about low-output burners as well. You see, too much heat can ruin foods like fine sauces. These low-output burners, also known as simmer burners, can go as low as 5000 BTUs for the most delicate recipes at 140øF. All gas burners have grates to support your pots and pans over the burners. The grates are designed to work with a particular model, so the flame can provide the greatest contact with the cooking vessel. Basic ranges will have individual grates that are lightweight with spaces between each of them. Higher-end gas ranges have porcelain enamel cast iron grates. Many of them are continuous, allowing you to easily slide heavy pots from one burner to the other.