gas is not an option and i really don't want to replace my copper pans to use induction. we've had jenn air for years and they get flimsier with each "upgrade" like the look of a range top as opposed to a regular cooktop. i would prefer a larger cooking area say 42-48 but so far i can only find two jenn air and one viking model in that size range. looks like electric is becoming obsolete. i know people either love viking or hate it so i'm taking a wild shot hoping to find someone who had actually used one of these models

I don't have induction, I have a gas range, so don't have the experience with induction to recommend it or not. I do know though that many people have to buy new cookware when they buy induction, because not all cookware works on induction, so the OP needs to be aware of that. If the OP is determined to have a white range, then I would recommend the GE double oven white electric range. It's not induction, but it has the advantage of two ovens in one. Since the OP does not cook often, I bet the smaller oven will get used the most, a great convenience. GE Double Oven Electric Range - $1200 with black top and knobs GE Double Oven Electric Range - $1500 with white top and touch pad (not knobs) I prefer knobs - easier to work with. If I were choosing between the one with knobs or the one with white top, I'd choose the knobs, no question. You shouldn't be concerned about the black top. No one will care or notice.

Bump

Probably not. If the Ceran doesn't get hotter than it does when induction cooking, I don't see any hazard to the unit. Surge protectors help, but even an array of them should not be expected to provide perfect protection. Some appliances/electronics use parts rated higher than peak wall voltage, but not as high as might get past a surge protector with a fast rising pulse. There are myriad ways lightening induced surges can get into wiring, so the best one can do is minimize the risk. After that, for complex power electronics not practical to connect to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), (e.g., an induction cooktop), an extended warranty is a good idea in my opinion.