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High altitude gas cooktop?

13 years ago

I recently moved to CO at about 6,000 ft. We are renovating our kitchen & I've had salespeople recommend a high altitude gas cooktop. The only two they've mentioned that come in a high alt. model are Dacor & Wolf (36"), but I've read questionable reviews on their reliability. Before the salesman told me about this, I was considering the Thermador Masterpiece Deluxe gas cooktop and the Electrolux Icon & regular models. Two things: have any of you had positive experiences with your Dacor and/or Wolf cooktops? Second, is it necessary or a "gimmick" to buy a high altitude cooktop? (This is my first time living at high altitude, so I truly have no idea.) Thanks for your help!

Featured Answer

kist1

13 years ago

"High altitude cooktop" simply means different gas orifices.
Any high-end brand (Wolf, BlueStar, et cet) will have an elevation conversion. This "kit" will be orifices that will have smaller holes than ones used at sea level (the higher you go the less air there is; therefore, you need less gas).

Lots of people have gas appliances at 6k (or higher) elevation.

-Lew

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Comments (6)

jakvis
13 years ago
If you want the best performance at high altitude stay with electric hob or induction. They are both totally unaffected by altitude and the performance of induction can't be beat by gas at any altitude.
jordanakim
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks for the feedback.
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flwrs_n_co
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Welcome to CO and GW! We've lived on the front range for over 25 years and love it. I'm afraid I can't help with your question as I've always had electric while living here. For baking you'll need to follow the high altitude directions. Also, noodles take longer boil. I still haven't perfected my MIL's Autumn Apple Cake recipe for the altitude, but then it's a rather involved recipe that I only make every few years. This summer make sure to try the Palisades peaches and Olathe corn when they come in season--they're delicious!! However, I don't find the tomatoes as tasty here (we're originally from MI).
jordanakim
Original Author
13 years ago
We've only ever had electric & were ready to try something new. We actually bought an Electrolux induction cooktop back in Dec., but have been unhappy with it. Food cooks unevenly & slower than I remember on the electric. The surface scratches easily & I didn't find any pots & pans I liked after trying literally 7 different brands. Luckily for us, Electrolux is buying back the unit after having 2 service people come to the house to "fix" it. Now we're hoping that the gas cooktop will be better...

We arrived in CO just in time for the Rocky Ford cantaloupes last fall. They were the most delicious we had ever tasted. Looking forward to the Palisades peaches!
mddewitte
3 years ago
Yet how important to get this high altitude cooktop as we have had a normal DACOR with no issues ???? Replacing it as it is now 17 years old and doing some mods. Supplier is pushing the high altitude version?

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