Jenn-Air JGD8345 and JED8345 for replacement of large island downdraft cooktops

Jenn-Air cooktops make a great choice for downdraft replacements

Available at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center

During the late '80's through the mid 90's there were a number of upscale home builders in Soucal that installed 42″ – 45″ downdraft cooktops in islands in their new homes.

Since this was roughly 20 – 25 years ago if these kitchens have not been remodeled, they're due. The question then is what can you put in this island, at a reasonable price, to avoid having to relocate the cooktop or rip everything out, install a big island hood, or worse yet, completely gut the island.

It just so happens that there are still a few downdraft cooktops being made that might work. Jenn-Air, the grandaddy of downdraft, has a 45″ gas and a 45″ electric unit still in their lineup. Both gas and electric cooktops are equipped with Jenn-Air's efficient downdraft system with proximity ventilation.

The gas unit below, the JGD8345ADB comes with a grill on the left side and 4 gas burners on the right side. An optional griddle can fit over the grill, or the grill can be removed and a 2 burner cartridge inserted for cooking on 6 burners.

JGD8345ADB

The electric cooktop below, the JED8345 also comes with a grill on the left side. The two bays on the right side are left open for a selection of optional electric cartridges, including electric coil or radiant elements, an additional grill, and a griddle. In addition the grill can be removed to accept the electric element cartridges.