How to use a gas stovetop

Whether you just bought your first gas stovetop or are looking to learn more about how this appliance works, this beginner-friendly guide walks you through the basics, from turning on the burners and adjusting the flame levels to cleaning the surface. Keep in mind that rangetops, stovetops and cooktops all generally refer to the same thing, so the same principles covered here apply to most gas cooktops.

How does a gas stovetop work?

A gas stovetop creates heat by igniting gas at the burner. When you turn the control knob to the “Lite” position, an electric igniter sparks and lights the gas, producing a flame. Standard gas stovetop burner output typically ranges from 500 to 20,000 BTUs, though that number may vary by make and model.

Using a gas stovetop

Using a gas stovetop starts with a few simple checks before you turn on a burner. Models may vary, but in general, follow the basic steps below to get started.

1. Select your burner and check the area

Smaller burners are ideal for smaller cookware and low-flame cooking like simmering, while larger burners are well-suited for larger cookware and high-heat techniques like boiling or searing. In terms of BTUs, simmer burners typically range from 500–2,000 BTUs, mid-range burners range from 2,000–10,000 BTUs for everyday cooking like sautéing and frying, and high BTU burners range from 12,000–18,000+ BTUs for high-heat cooking like searing and stir-frying. It’s important to keep your burners clean; failure to do so may result in flames that do not cook evenly.

2. Adjust your grates

Before cooking, make sure your grates are properly positioned. Models vary, but in general, align each grate with the dimples, slots, tabs or indents on the surface of your cooktop. Each grate usually fits properly in only one location, and once placed, the grates should align and be flush with each other. Select KitchenAid^® gas ranges and cooktops offer Edge-to-Edge Cast-Iron Grates, which subtly integrate with your countertop, allowing you to move pots and pans easily from your counter to the cooking surface.

3. Turn on the burner

Models may vary, but for many gas stovetops, you’ll begin by pushing the knob in and turning it counterclockwise to “Ignite” or “Light.” A spark will light the burner, and a clicking sound will continue until the knob is turned to your desired setting. Note that all burners will click when any knob is pushed in,this is normal, but they will not light unless the knob is then turned to “Ignite” or “Light.” Visually check that the burner has lit. Once you see a steady flame, turn the knob anywhere between Hi and Lo to your desired setting.

A close-up of cookware on a lit gas burner

4. Place cookware on the burner and adjust the flame

Place filled cookware on the grate. Pots should not overlap the burner by more than 1/2 inch, and the flame should not extend beyond the edge of the pan. When adjusting heat, watch the flame, not the knob—the flame size should match the cookware you are using, and a flame larger than the bottom of the cookware wastes energy and may heat the handle.

An overhead image of salmon cooking on a gas stovetop in a pan

5. Cook and monitor

Stay attentive while cooking. Boilovers cause smoking and greasy spillovers may ignite. A pot that has boiled over or grease that has splattered outside the pan can cause excess liquid on or around the burner. Also keep an eye on your flame. It should be blue. A yellow or orange flame may be caused by dirty burner ports, insufficient air supply or the burning of existing spills on the surface.

A close-up image of the knobs on a gas stovetop

6. Turn the burner off

Turn off all controls when not cooking by turning the knob back to the off position. Once you’re done, give your stovetop a quick cleanup after every use, as fresh spills and splatters are easier to clean; just make sure the surface is completely cool to the touch before cleaning.

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Gas stovetop cooking tips

A few simple habits can help you get the most out of your gas stovetop. Keep the following in mind while you cook:

Tip 1: Match your burner to your cookware. Use the correct size burner for the pot or pan you are using. Pots should not overlap the burner by more than 1/2 inch.
Tip 2: Watch the flame, not the knob. The flame size should match the cookware you are using. A flame larger than the bottom of the cookware wastes energy and may heat the handle.
Tip 3: Match your burner to your cooking technique. Use smaller burners for low-flame cooking like simmering, and larger burners for high-heat techniques like boiling or searing.
Tip 4: Clean up promptly. Give your stovetop a quick cleanup after every use. Fresh spills and splatters are usually easier to clean, and this keeps your cooktop fresh and ready to use for your next cooking session.

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Gas stovetop FAQs

Keep reading to learn more about gas stovetops, including how they differ from electric stovetops and what kind of cookware they require.

Sealed burners are sealed to the base of the range, are the most common type found in residential gas ranges and are generally considered easier to clean. Open burners are not sealed underneath, allowing oxygen to move freely and generate higher heat. They are often seen in professional settings used by professional chefs.

Yes. Cast iron is ideal for high heat cooking, thanks to its heavy weight and durability. This makes it a good match for the high-heat capabilities of a gas stove.

A normal flame should be blue. Yellow flames may indicate a clogged burner port or a misaligned burner cap. You may want to try reinstalling the burner cap flush on the base and cleaning the burner ports with a straight pin, needle or small-gauge wire to help restore an even flame.

Children should not be left unattended in an area with a stove. When they are old enough, teach children how to use the stove safely.

Give your gas stovetop a quick cleanup after every use, as fresh spills and splatters are generally easier to clean sooner rather than later. A deeper clean can be done about once a week or as needed.