Think of griddle sections as a different type of range top. They're available as sections in most range-top combinations and also as counter-top and free-standing units.
Gas versus electric griddles. What's the difference?
Usually, this depends upon the operator's personal preference. In general, gas fuel costs are less expensive than electric. While both modes require a warm-up time, gas griddles will usually reach their optimum temperature quicker. However, whether you purchase a gas or an electric griddle, both have thermostats that control the heating elements and keep the surface temperature consistent.
Click here to view our Electric Griddles.
Thickness of the griddle plate. What's the benefit of a thicker plate?
Griddle plates come in ½
", ¾", and 1" thickness. Some prefer thinner plates because they preheat quickly and are more sensitive to temperature changes than thicker plates. However, thinner plates are also more likely to buckle and/or warp.
Thicker griddle plates may take a bit longer to heat up, but they distribute heat more evenly and they hold heat longer. They're also more durable and less likely to warp under the constant temperature changes that griddles endure. Once a griddle plate warps, hot and cold spots develop and the plate cooks less consistently.
Manually versus thermostatically controlled. What's the difference?
In an age in which operators must be vigilant against E. Coli, it's important to know that your griddle zones are operating at the correct temperatures. Manual griddles offer less flexibility in cooking temperatures across the entire plate - usually only LOW, MEDIUM and HIGH.
Thermostatically controlled griddles allow you to set precise temperatures, such as 450°. They also allow you to set different temperatures for different areas of the plate, enabling you to cook different products side-by-side. This is known as "zoning".
Click here to view our Manual Gas Griddles.
Click here to view our Thermostatic Gas Griddles.
Charbroiling. How can I use my griddle like a charbroiler?
If you want to achieve a "char-broiled" look and taste, without the smoke problems, grooved griddles are available. In fact, in some areas, local regulations require this type of griddle in place of broilers
Zoning. What does it mean?
Available only with thermostatically controlled griddles, zoning gives operators the option of cooking different foods, such as pancakes and bacon, at different temperatures side-by-side
In the past, uneven heat distribution across the griddle surface presented a problem for operators. The center of the griddle was often hotter than the outer edges and corners. In recent years, however, strategic placement of heating elements and thermostats has improved.
Buyer's Guide 
Think of griddle sections as a different type of range top. They're available as sections in most range-top combinations and also as counter-top and free-standing units.