Electric Cooktops - need feedback

[janette]

I'm looking to replace my cooktop. I want a glass top, prefer black and like the models that have push buttons instead of knobs.

The one we have currently has a vent in the middle. Is this necessary? Do I have to replace it with one with a vent or can I just do without it?

Any brands or features you'd recommend I look for?

TIA.

 

[barkley]

if you want some great input on brands check under the repairs listing in the local phone book. call up and ask which brands they do more repairs on and which features bring the most service calls.

i've gotten some great feedback from people who repair various appliances about which brands are better, which upgrades tend to breakdown and the like. when we were planning on having our home recarpeted i called our long standing carpet cleaner and asked him who's installation work in the area he had seen and would reccommend (figured he saw the good and the bad in the area)-it was a great resource.