KitchenAid KCED606GSS Reviews & Ratings by Customers and Consumer Reports

Designed for kitchens where overhead ventilation is impractical—or where a clean, uninterrupted sightline matters—the KitchenAid KCED606GSS 36-inch electric downdraft cooktop is best suited to serious home cooks who want strong everyday performance with integrated smoke and odor capture. It combines five radiant elements with a built-in downdraft system, making it a particularly logical fit for island installations and open-concept layouts common in both U.S. and Canada. In real use, the standout is the integrated downdraft ventilation with a 3-speed fan and a 300 CFM exhaust rating. For typical sautéing, simmering, and moderate searing, it does a credible job of pulling steam and cooking odors down and away without requiring a separate hood. This can simplify kitchen design and reduce visual clutter, though it’s worth noting that downdraft systems are generally less effective than overhead capture for tall stockpots or very smoky high-heat techniques. Cooking performance is well-balanced for a radiant electric platform. The 10-inch Even-Heat™ Ultra element (rated up to 3,200W) provides strong heat for larger pans and faster boiling, while the 12"/9" double-ring element adds flexibility when you alternate between small saucepans and wide skillets. For precision tasks, the Even-Heat™ element with a melt setting is a practical advantage—useful for chocolate, butter, or delicate sauces where scorching is a common frustration on standard electric elements. From a usability and durability standpoint, the ceramic-glass surface is easy to wipe down once cooled, and the stainless steel knobs offer more tactile control than touch panels—especially with wet hands. Indicator lights for “on” and “hot surface” are also essential safety features that are implemented well in this category. Limitations are typical for a 36-inch downdraft radiant cooktop. It may not suit buyers who strongly prefer induction responsiveness, or who frequently cook with very large, tall cookware where downdraft capture is inherently challenged. Installation can also be more involved than a standard cooktop due to venting or recirculation requirements. Verdict: The KitchenAid KCED606GSS is an excellent choice for design-driven kitchens needing integrated ventilation and dependable electric performance, particularly for everyday cooking and entertaining. Those prioritizing maximum smoke capture or ultra-fast, highly responsive heat control may want to consider alternative ventilation approaches or cooking technologies.