How to Choose the Right Gas Cooktop for Your Kitchen

Why Many Australian Cooks Still Choose Gas

Despite the growing popularity of induction cooktops, gas remains a preferred choice for a significant number of Australian home cooks. The instant response to heat adjustments, the visual feedback of an open flame, and the ability to use any type of cookware are genuine advantages that many cooks value highly. If your home has a gas connection and you enjoy the feel of cooking on gas, a quality gas cooktop is a worthwhile investment.

This guide covers what to look for in a gas cooktop, how to compare models, and how gas compares to other cooktop types. You can compare all cooktop technologies in our full cooktop buying guide.

Key Features to Look For

Number of Burners

Gas cooktops are most commonly available in 60 cm and 90 cm widths. A 60 cm cooktop typically has four burners, while a 90 cm model offers five or six. For most Australian families, four burners cover everyday cooking needs. Five or six burners give you the flexibility to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, which is particularly useful for larger families or anyone who entertains regularly.

Burner Types and Output

Gas burner output is measured in megajoules per hour (MJ/h) in Australia. A range of burner sizes is important for versatile cooking:

• Simmer burner (1 to 2 MJ/h): For gentle simmering, melting chocolate, and keeping sauces warm without scorching.
• Standard burner (3 to 5 MJ/h): For everyday cooking tasks including frying, boiling, and sauteing.
• Large or triple-ring burner (6 to 9 MJ/h): For rapid boiling of large pots and high-heat cooking.
• Wok burner (12 to 17 MJ/h): High-output burners designed for wok cooking at very high heat. Essential for authentic stir-frying where intense, rapid heat is critical to the result.

Wok Burner

A wok burner is one of the most valued features on a gas cooktop for Australian households that cook Asian cuisine regularly. Wok burners deliver significantly more heat than standard burners and can accommodate a rounded wok base with a wok ring. If you stir-fry regularly, prioritise a model with a dedicated high-output wok burner.

Continuous Cast Iron Grates

Cast iron grates are the raised supports that hold your cookware above the burner flames. Continuous cast iron grates that run across the full surface of the cooktop allow you to slide heavy pots and pans from burner to burner without lifting them. They're more durable and easier to cook with than individual separate grates. Most quality gas cooktops include continuous cast iron grates as standard.

Flame Failure Safety Device

A flame failure device (FFD) is a thermocouple safety mechanism that cuts off the gas supply automatically if the flame is extinguished, for example by a sudden draught, a boiling-over pot, or accidental contact. This is an essential safety feature and is standard on all quality modern gas cooktops sold in Australia. Always confirm that a gas cooktop includes FFD before purchasing.

Electronic Ignition

All modern gas cooktops use electronic ignition: you press or turn the burner control and the ignition sparks automatically. Most models ignite on turn; some require a separate ignition button. Look for a model where the ignition is reliable and doesn't require multiple attempts.

Surface Material

Gas cooktops are available in stainless steel, tempered black glass, or a combination. Stainless steel is durable and easy to wipe down but can show fingerprints and scratches over time. Black glass has a sleek, modern appearance and is easy to clean but can show residue from boilovers more readily than stainless steel. Your choice will depend on your kitchen aesthetic and how much cleaning maintenance you're willing to do.

Sealed Burners

Sealed burners have a rim that contains spills and prevents food debris from falling into the burner box below. They're significantly easier to clean than open burners and are standard on most modern gas cooktops.

LPG Conversion

If your home uses LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) rather than natural gas (piped reticulated gas), check that your chosen model can be converted to LPG. Most gas cooktops sold in Australia include LPG conversion jets in the box. LPG conversion should be performed by a licensed gas fitter.

Natural Gas vs. LPG

Natural gas is supplied via a reticulated pipeline and is the most common gas type in Australian cities and major towns. LPG is stored in a tank or cylinder on your property and is common in regional and rural areas. Both work effectively with a compatible gas cooktop, but LPG burns at a higher pressure than natural gas, so the correct jets must be used for each fuel type. Always confirm which gas type your property uses before purchasing.

What to Expect at Different Price Points

Budget (Under $500)

Entry-level gas cooktops deliver reliable performance with standard burner outputs, basic four-burner layouts, and stainless steel or black glass finishes. A practical choice for straightforward everyday cooking.

Mid-Range ($500 to $1,500)

Mid-range models offer better build quality, a wider range of burner outputs including high-output wok burners, continuous cast iron grates, and more refined finishes. Most Australian households will find an excellent model in this range.

Premium ($1,500 and Above)

Premium gas cooktops deliver the highest burner outputs, multiple wok burners, full continuous grates, superior build quality, and refined aesthetic finishes. Worth the investment for serious cooks and high-end kitchen renovations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a rangehood above a gas cooktop?

Yes. A rangehood is important above any gas cooktop to capture combustion byproducts, steam, grease particles, and cooking odours and vent them outside or filter them. Combustion gases from gas cooking, including nitrogen dioxide, are best removed with an externally ducted rangehood. See our rangehood range for compatible options.

Can I install a gas cooktop myself?

No. In Australia, all gas appliance installations must be performed by a licensed gas fitter. This applies to both new installations and conversions between natural gas and LPG. Using an unlicensed person to install gas appliances is illegal and extremely dangerous.

How do I clean cast iron grates?

Remove grates and wash with hot soapy water and a non-abrasive scrubber. For baked-on residue, soaking in hot soapy water for 20 to 30 minutes loosens most food debris. Dry thoroughly before replacing to prevent rust. Periodically rubbing lightly with a cloth and a small amount of cooking oil helps maintain the cast iron surface.

Ready to Shop?

Browse our full range of gas cooktops. You can also explore our complete cooktops range, including induction cooktops and ceramic cooktops, and our full kitchen appliance collection.