Downdraft cooktops - choice between 2 evils (Jenn-air/GE)

16 years ago

I need to replace my existing Jenn-Air downdraft cooktop (20+ years old) and am looking at 2 options, another Jenn-Air or a GE. I've read all the reviews here and elsewhere and understand that downdrafts are not very effective. However, I can't add an overhead hood where my stove is now, and I just need a short-term solution to sell my house.

Two questions: which stove will be easier to keep clean? The options are the GE PP989 or any of the Jenn-Air black radiant cooktops (JED3430W, JED4430W). I've seen the surface of the Jenn-Air in person - it's black with little white speckles and didn't seem to show fingerprints.

Second question: the difference between the Jenn-Air black and the Jenn-Air "stainless" is just 2 strips of stainless steel on the top and bottom of the stove. Is it worth it to get stainless?

What about the knobs? Easier to clean a completely flat surface, or is cleaning around the knobs ok?

Stainless Jenn-Air with knobs:

Black Jenn-Air no knobs:

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Comments (2)

aprince
16 years ago
You will more than likely like the models without the trim. The trim can make it harder to clean and can catch crumbs.

You're correct in the vent performance of these, however, Jenn Air just udgraded there vent. Not sure how well it works even though marketing has these as greatly improved.

However, JA ceramic cooktop without downvent is 21 5/16 deep. Dacor makes a telescopic vent that is 2 inches deep. If this fits, it would improve your vent performace significantly although you would need to cut out a bigger hole. Cost is more too. Total depth you would need is 23 5/16.
annkathryn
Original Author
16 years ago
Unfortunately I don't have the counter space for the telescopic vent.

I think I'll go ahead and buy the (relatively) cheaper Jenn-Air with knobs rather than electronic controls, and without the stainless trim.

Thanks for your thoughts.
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