The cut-out

Every hob has its own cut-out size in the manufacturer's instructions. Replacing a hob of the same size is quick. A bigger hob means cutting the counter, which on stone or granite is done by a stone company or a specialist with the right blade; ask the installer who will do it before you buy.

What the installation involves

The gas line from the cylinders or meter to the cupboard under the hob.
A shut-off valve in that cupboard or nearby, easy to reach.
Fitting the hob into the counter with its seal, and connecting it.
Leak test of the line and every burner lit and adjusted.
Certificate of Conformity for the installation. See gas CoC.

Most gas hobs need a plug point under the counter for the electric ignition.

What affects the price

Whether the counter needs to be cut or the cut-out made bigger.
The length of the gas line and where the cylinders can stand.
Whether you already have cylinders and a regulator.
A new plug point for the ignition, if there is none.

Typical ranges are on gas installation costs.

Where people ask for this

In the last 12 months, gas hob installation requests through National Gas Installers came from Johannesburg (160), Pretoria (144), East Rand (137), Roodepoort (86), Cape Town (85), Centurion (71), Bellville and Durbanville (50), Alberton (43), Durban (34), Bloubergstrand (31), Strand and Somerset West (23), Witbank (7) and Bloemfontein (2). Each area page shows who the local installers are: