BENTON HARBOR, Mich., March 18, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Luxury appliance maker Jenn-Air is combining its downdraft expertise with induction cooking technology to introduce its first induction downdraft cooktop.  Scheduled for availability this summer, the new 36" cooktop provides the responsiveness of induction cooking with Jenn-Air brand's powerful downdraft ventilation technology.

A cooking technology that continues to gain in popularity, induction uses electromagnetic energy to turn cookware into the heat source, providing instant heat and precise temperature control.  Because the cookware itself becomes the heat source, the area around each element stays cooler.  Jenn-Air cooktops with induction technology offer a level of responsiveness and efficiency that outperform electric and gas. 

"This is a high-performance cooktop option that keeps both the air and sight lines clear," says marketing director Brian Maynard.  "In addition to eliminating the need for overhead ventilation, its extremely low profile is virtually flush with the countertop so it integrates beautifully into a range of modern kitchen configurations, including those with islands."

Maynard notes that the company's founder Lou Jenn invented downdraft ventilation in the 1960's and since then many refinements have been made to enhance its performance.   He also points out that the very nature of its design offers an advantage.  Downdraft ventilation, with its location directly on the cooktop, uses proximity ventilation to capture smoke, steam and odors at the cooking surface, whisking them down and out for a fresher, cleaner kitchen.

Featuring an exhaust capacity rating of 350 CFM in a ducted configuration, the downdraft blower is designed with centrifugal fan technology to both quickly and quietly ventilate cooking vapors.   Those who are unable or prefer not to run ductwork or vent smoke outside can opt for the brand's duct-free option that uses a powerful filtration system to capture smoke and steam.   

With two flexible induction cooking areas, each providing a powerful 3,700 watts, the cooktop can accommodate up to 6 pots at once. Intuitive, sensor-driven pan detection technology ensures an element will only activate when appropriately sized cookware is placed upon it.  Bridge element technology featured on both sides of the cooktop offer further flexibility for longer cookware, such as griddles or Dutch ovens.

"This is really two appliances in a single footprint so it can be a great option for tighter spaces," says Maynard. 

All elements include a Performance Boost feature that raises the cooking temperature above the highest setting for up to 10 minutes, an added convenience for tasks like boiling or searing.   Additional heat level settings include Melt and Keep Warm™ functions, for keeping foods and delicate sauces at proper serving temperatures while other dishes finish cooking.  Independent timers for each cooking element allow cooks to more easily manage a variety of cooking tasks at once.

The cooktop's elegant, jet-black ceramic glass surface easily wipes clean and features tap touch controls that respond to light pressure for controlling both downdraft ventilation and cooking elements. If an element is still hot after being turned off, lights positioned at the controls indicate which element is still in the process of cooling down.  LED lighting and a solid glass diffuser illuminates the downdraft vent providing a visual cue that cooking vapors are being captured. 

Featuring an elegant stainless steel trim, the new Jenn-Air® Induction Downdraft Cooktop will carry a suggested retail price of $6,999.  It can be paired with all the brand's style offerings including its Pro-Style® and Euro-Style stainless steel options or its signature Black Floating Glass that offers a sleek, glossy alternative to stainless steel.  

About Jenn-Air:
Since the introduction of the first self-ventilated cooktop in 1961 and downdraft ventilated range in 1965, Jenn-Air brand has consistently grown its reputation as a technology and design innovator. Its selection of style options includes two distinct stainless steel collections and a cutting-edge Floating Glass finish in black. From downdraft cooktops, wall ovens and professional style ranges to dishwashers, refrigerators and such entertaining essentials as warming drawers, built-in ice machines and wine cellars, Jenn-Air brand offers a complete line of major kitchen appliances. To learn more about the Jenn-Air® appliance collection, or speak with a member of the concierge team, please visit jennair.com, facebook.com/jennair, instagram.com/jennairusa and twitter.com/jennairusa.

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SOURCE Jenn-Air