Are Thermador's Star Burners Worth the Hype?

Posted on February 12, 2025

If you’ve ever shopped for a high-end range, you’ve probably seen the Star® Burner from Thermador and wondered, “What’s the deal with the star shape?” It looks different, but does it actually cook better, or is it just a flashy design?

Thermador claims this patented burner shape improves heat distribution, speeds up boiling, and eliminates cold spots. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Thermador’s Star Burners unique.

What Makes Thermador’s Star Burners Unique?

The Thermador Star Burner’s five-pointed shape actually serves a functional purpose. The star design increases the burner’s perimeter by 56% compared to a standard round burner of the same size. This provides:

• More flame ports
• Fewer cold spots
• Faster cooking times

From sauce simmering to steak searing, the precise control of Thermador's Star Burners makes a noticeable difference.

Star Burners vs. Traditional Round Burners

When comparing Star Burners to traditional round burners, the key advantages include:

1. Better Heat Distribution

The Star Burner’s flame coverage is far superior to a standard round burner. The design allows for wider heat dispersion, meaning food in a large skillet or stockpot will cook evenly, without some areas being undercooked while others are overdone.

2. Powerful Cooking Performance

Thermador’s Star Burners are built with high-BTU power levels, making them great for serious home chefs. Many Thermador models offer 18,000 to 22,000 BTUs, meaning they can boil water and sear meats faster than most competitors.

Featured on Thermador Pro Grand® 36" Dual Fuel Professional Range (Model: PRD366WGU), the 22,000 BTU Power Burner delivers incredible performance on par with professional kitchens.

3. ExtraLow® Simmering Technology

Not only do Star Burners provide intense heat, but they also offer precision simmering. The ExtraLow® feature cycles the flame on and off to maintain ultra-low temperatures—ideal for melting chocolate, keeping sauces warm, or simmering delicate foods without scorching.

This feature is handy for home cooks who multitask. Instead of constantly stirring a sauce to prevent burning, you can rely on the ExtraLow® setting to do the work for you.

4. Faster Boiling and More Efficient Cooking

Thanks to more flame ports, Star Burners can boil water faster than conventional round burners. With heat spreading evenly across the bottom of the pot rather than focusing on the center, cooking times are noticeably reduced.

Which Thermador Ranges and Cooktops Feature Star Burners?

Thermador integrates Star Burners across its entire gas cooking lineup, including:

• Pro Grand Ranges – The high-end Thermador Pro Grand ranges feature powerful burners with up to 22,000 BTUs, along with steam ovens and induction elements.
• Pro Harmony® Ranges – Thermador’s Pro Harmony ranges offer 18,000 BTUs, these ranges provide exceptional heat control and ExtraLow simmering for delicate cooking.
• Rangetops & Cooktops – Whether you prefer a Thermador dual fuel range or a Thermador cooktop, you’ll find Star Burners across all models.

Thermador Star Burners: Cleaning and Maintenance

One common hesitation with gas ranges is cleanup. Grease stains and splatters can be a nightmare on regular burners. Thermador addresses this concern with its QuickClean Base® design:

• Elevated pedestal burner: Food crumbs and spills fall underneath the burner, making them easy to wipe away.
• Porcelain-coated base: The smooth, non-porous surface prevents food buildup.
• Teardrop embossing: Designed to reduce residue collection, making maintenance hassle-free.

Unlike many gas burners with hard-to-reach crevices, Thermador Star Burners are designed for easy cleaning. This is a game-changer for those who love cooking but hate the cleanup.

Is a Thermador Star Burner Range Worth It?

Thermador's Star Burner technology is a clear winner if you value precision cooking, faster boiling times, and easy cleaning. The ability to evenly heat cookware of all sizes, combined with high-BTU power and precise simmering control, makes Thermador one of the best choices for serious home chefs.

Why Choose Thermador at Bray & Scarff?

Bray & Scarff offers a curated selection of Thermador ranges, cooktops, and more, giving you the chance to upgrade your kitchen with professional-grade appliances. If you’re seeking a complete kitchen overhaul, Bray & Scarff offers access to experienced kitchen design experts who can guide you through every step. Browse our selection online or visit a showroom to experience the power of Thermador Star Burners firsthand.

Upgrade Your Kitchen with Thermador

Ready to take your kitchen to the next level with Thermador’s Star Burners? At Bray & Scarff, we’re here to help you find the perfect kitchen upgrades. Our appliance experts can guide you through your options, whether you're replacing a single appliance or planning a full remodel.

Contact us online or visit one of our local appliance stores to explore our wide selection of kitchen appliances. Beyond Thermador, we offer top brands, including Bosch, Wolf, Café, and more. Let’s make your kitchen work better for you—visit us today!

Related Readings:

• Brand Spotlight - Thermador
• Thermador Column vs Sub-Zero Column
• Jenn-Air vs. Thermador Induction Cooktop

FAQ: Common Questions About Thermador’s Star Burners

1. Are Thermador Star Burners better?
Yes, Thermador Star Burners provide better heat distribution, faster boiling times, and fewer cold spots compared to traditional round burners. Their unique design allows for more flame ports, delivering more even cooking across any pan size.

2. Why does my Thermador burner keep clicking?
A clicking burner usually means moisture or debris is interfering with the igniter. Try drying the burner completely and clearing any food particles from the igniter with a soft brush. If the clicking continues, it may need a professional adjustment.

3. What is an oval burner used for?
An oval burner is designed for larger cookware, like griddles, roasting pans, or oversized pots. It provides even heat across longer surfaces, making it ideal for cooking multiple items at once.

4. Which is higher-end, Bosch or Thermador?
Thermador is considered more high-end than Bosch, offering premium features like Star Burners, ExtraLow simmering, and high-BTU burners. Bosch, while still high-quality, focuses more on reliability and efficiency at a slightly lower price point.

5. Is Thermador considered high-end?
Yes, Thermador is a luxury appliance brand known for high-performance cooking technology, innovative designs, and professional-grade features. It's a go-to choice for serious home cooks and professional chefs.