VG 491 - 400 series 5 Burner Vario Gas Cooktop

Solid Brass Multiple Ring Burners

Solid brass has superior heat retention qualities and the precisely engineered round ports of the 400 series gas cooktops deliver a powerful even flame. The multiple rings of flame ensure even heat distribution and precise control when cooking at each power level.

When the power level is reduced, the outer ring of flame is extinguished, and the burner operates at a reduced BTU/hr output allowing you to achieve precise results.

Center Burner

17,000 - 18,800 BTU/hr (depending on model)

This burner features 3 rings of flame and can be used for high heat cooking and when cooking large quantities of food in extra large pans. The wok ring supports a round bottom wok and can be removed when not in use.

High Output Burners

13,600 BTU/hr

This burner features 2 rings of flame and can be used for searing and sauté, frying and simmering with a reduced BTU/hr output.

Standard Output Burner

7,000 BTU/hr

This burner also features 2 rings of flame and is ideal for simmering and cooking grains minimizing the risk of a boilover. These burners are also suitable for melting chocolate and butter and reducing a sauce.

Safety Features

Thermocouple Ignition

If the knobs are accidentally turned on this system prevents the escape of gas. To ignite the burner, push in the control knob and turn it clockwise or counter-clockwise to the numerical heat setting you require. All the burners will spark momentarily and the selected burner will ignite.

The burner cap assembly must be locked into position for successful ignition.

Illuminated Rings

When illuminated this indicates a burner is in use. Flashing intermittently when a burner is turned off indicates caution due to residual heat.

Electronic Flame Monitoring and Automatic Re-Ignition

If the flame goes out while the cooktop is in use, the burner will automatically re-ignite. If the re-ignition is unsuccessful due to a boilover from food or liquid the gas supply will shut off automatically.

Safety Shut Off

Depending on the heat setting, the safety shut off will activate automatically if the appliance has been in operation for an extended time. Power level 12 = 1 hour duration, power level 1 = 4 hours duration.

Power Levels and Cooking Tips

All cookware relates differently to heat, and most pans are best heated over medium heat for efficient cooking. Once the pan is heated add the cooking oil or fat and adjust the power level as needed.

Power Levels / Cooking Method

12: Boiling water, blanching vegetables.

10 - 12: High heat sauté, searing, wok cooking

7 - 10: Medium high heat for sauté and searing

6 - 8: Medium heat for sauté of fish, vegetables

4 - 6: Medium low heat for eggs, fried or scrambled, reheating soup

3 - 4: Low for oatmeal, rice and defrosting

2: Simmering with the lid on

Simmer setting: In this setting the burner cycles on and off to maintain a low consistent heat ideal for melting chocolate, heating delicate sauces, and keeping food warm. Image shows simmer setting symbol on illuminated control knob.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Always allow the surface and burners to cool down before cleaning.

Stainless Steel Surface

Wash the surface with hot soapy water to remove grease and cooking debris. Avoid using harsh scrubbing pads and caustic cleansers. Discoloration caused by high heat cooking can be removed with Gaggenau Stainless Steel Conditioner (part # 00576698) available from the eshop.

Gaggenau Stainless Steel Conditioner

Cast Iron Grates

The grates can be washed in hot soapy water to remove grease and stains. Avoid lifting the grates from the front to wipe the cooktop surface as this may result in scratching the stainless steel.

Brass Burners

The burners can be removed and disassembled for cleaning when cool. Take care when removing and cleaning the cooktop not to knock the ignition plugs and thermocouple, a light brushing with a small soft brush is recommended for keeping them clean.

The burners can be cleaned with hot soapy water and a paste made with Bar Keepers Friend to remove any stains. Cooking grime can also be removed by soaking the burners in a solution of 1 part water to 1 part white vinegar for 15 minutes. This restores some luster to the brass, however once exposed to heat the brass will be slightly dull.

In order to ensure successful ignition of the burners it’s important that all the pieces are very dry when placed back in position and that each part is fitted in the correct position and locked in place.

For those who wish to maintain their brass burners in pristine condition, additional burners are available for purchase. Please contact Customer Service at 1-877-442-4436 for assistance with placing your order.

A Chef in a Gaggenau kitchen preparing a dish

Chef’s hints

As you become familiar with the vast abilities of your appliance to make every dish extraordinary, you will discover the difference that is Gaggenau. Create culinary masterpieces and achieve the most from your Gaggenau appliances with useful tips and recipes from our Head Gaggenau Educator, Chef Larissa.

Discover more