Have you recently renovated your kitchen or bought a new cooktop and are keen to start cooking up a storm? You’ll probably need a cooktop installer to get you going. If it is a new installation then you are likely to require the services of an electrician or gas fitter – or possibly both. 

A licensed cooktop installer will have all the qualifications to do the job safely and professionally. They’ll also be able to complete your installation without voiding the warranty or your insurance. 

Read on for more information about cooktop installers, including:

• What do cooktop installers do?
• Types of cooktops 
• How much does cooktop installation cost?
• How to hire a cooktop installer
• What qualifications does my cooktop installer need?
• Getting quotes for cooktop installation

What does a cooktop installer do?

As the name suggests, a cooktop installer can install kitchen cooktops in your home. This involves more than just the installation process though and they’ll be able to help you through every step. 

It’s always worth checking exactly what services your cooktop installer offers but they will often include:

• Measuring the space for your cooktop 
• Checking existing outlets and connections in your kitchen 
• Uninstalling your old cooktop if necessary 
• Disposing of old cooktop if necessary
• Installing your new cooktop 
• Testing the new cooktop after installation

Types of cooktops

Besides the option of a freestanding cooktop/oven, the majority of cooktops are separate units installed into a cut-out on your benchtop. There are three primary types of cooktops you will encounter:

• Gas - gas cooktops have always been valued for their instant adjustability and fairly cost-effective fuel type, though not all homes or buildings have access to gas 
• Electric - while not as controllable as gas, electric cooktops are easily cleaned and are good at simmering on low heat. They can be the most expensive in terms of energy usage
• Induction - a relative newcomer to the domestic kitchen, induction cooktops use magnetic fields to generate heat. Easy to clean, relatively energy efficient and quick to reach operating temperature

How much does cooktop installation cost?

There can be a range of factors that will change the cost of installing a cooktop in your kitchen. In general, you can expect to pay somewhere in the region of $300 - $6,200 depending on your cooktop. 

Factors that will affect the price of your cooktop installation include:

• The type of cooktop
• The size and amount of burners
• Brand of cooktop
• Complexity (such as installing a new gas or electrical line or difficult spaces)
• Location of the cooktop (vents can be easier to install if the cooktop is adjacent to an outside wall) 

The cooktop itself is usually a large portion of the cost when it comes to installation. Most cooktop installers will be able to install a pre-bought cooktop into a hole in the benchtop. It can be important to make sure that your cabinetry allows for the installation of your cooktop. If you’re installing a cooktop into a new kitchen build, be sure to check this with your cabinet makers. 

Some installers will also be able to order your cooktop and add that to the cost of cooktop installation. Cooktop prices can be roughly:

• $250 - $2,000 for an electric cooktop unit
• $300 - $4,000 for a gas cooktop unit
• $1,000 - $6,000 for an induction cooktop unit

Some cooktop installers will have a call-out fee that they charge alongside the standard hourly rates. Usually, the labor charge for this service is around $200. However, if your benchtop requires a cutout there will be an additional charge to the call-out fee. 

If you have a stone benchtop this will involve the service of a stonemason. These charges will vary by trade and region, so be sure to ask before you confirm them for your job.

Sometimes, your new cooktop will be part of a larger kitchen renovation and may become a portion of the overall cost. 

What qualifications does my cooktop installer need?

Regardless of the type of cooktop you are having installed, your installer will need to be licensed. The license they need will change depending on what kind of cooktop you are having installed. 

If your cooktop is electric or induction, your tradie will need to be a qualified electrician. A gas cooktop will need a qualified gas fitter or plumber to install. Ensuring that your cooktop installer has the required qualifications is not only crucial for safe installation but also under the law. 

If you have any electrical outlets or other wiring that needs to be incorporated into the cooktop, you will likely need your installer to be a licensed electrician as well.

How to hire a cooktop installer

Hiring the right cooktop installer can make the whole process go smoothly with as little headaches as possible. When you call a cooktop installer it can be a good idea to ask them several questions to make your choice easier. Some of these questions include:

• Do you have experience with the job?
• Are you licensed to install my type of cooktop?
• Are you insured to work in my home?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• Do you have references I can follow up on?

Getting quotes for cooktop installation

At hipages, we always recommend getting at least three quotes before hiring a cooktop installer. The cheapest option may not always be the best one and you may find that there are additional costs down the line that can add up. 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anything you’re unsure about. You can always ask about the quotes and get an itemised list of what you are paying for. One way to do this is to request a written quote. This will make it easier to compare the quotes you receive and choose the right installer for you.