How to Change Out a Cooktop

Removing Old Cooktop

• 1

  Turn off all the controls on the cooktop and let it cool.

• 2

  Disconnect the power cord underneath the counter for the cooktop. Gas stoves also use a power cord to supply electricity for the igniter.

• 3

  Twist the handle in the gas valve below the cooktop 90 degrees to close the valve and shut off the fuel. Unscrew the coupler on the hose with the adjustable wrench. Skip this step if you are removing an electric cooktop.

• 4

  Take out the bolts in the underside of the cooktop where this hardware attaches to a metal lock bar under the counter, typically along the front and back edges of the appliance. Use the nut driver. Save the bolts.

• 5

  Pry up the front edge of the cooktop from the counter to get a grip on the appliance. Lift it up and out of the cabinet with both hands.

Installing New Cooktop

• 6

  Lower the new appliance into the cabinet opening so the cooktop controls face forward. The power cord and gas hose, if installing a gas unit, must dangle freely into the space below the cabinet.

• 7

  Place the metal lock bar in position at the front edge below the cooktop and secure with the bolts, tightening with the nut driver. Repeat with the lock bar for the back edge.

• 8

  Plug in the power cord to the electric outlet inside the cabinets below the cooktop. If you are hooking up a gas unit, continue with the installation.

• 9

  Apply gas pipe sealant around the threads of the valve on the main fuel line inside the cabinet.

• 10

  Slide the hose connector on the end of the cooktop onto the valve threads and twist the connector clockwise to lock it on the valve. Tighten with the adjustable wrench.

• 11

  Turn the gas valve handle parallel with the gas line to open the valve. This releases gas to the cooktop.