To adjust cooking time on a Whirlpool electric cooktop, press the "Timer" button to activate the cooking timer. Use the numbered buttons to set the desired duration (e.g., 10 minutes). For recipes requiring precise timing, press the "Clock" button to input the exact minutes using the numeric keypad. After setting the time, press "Start" to initiate the timer. If the cooktop has a "Hold" function, press it to maintain heat without activating the timer. Always verify the timer settings before starting to avoid undercooking or overheating.

Adjusting cooking time on a Whirlpool electric cooktop ensures optimal food safety and energy efficiency. According to a 2022 survey by the Appliance Association, 78% of users reported adjusting timers to match recipe guidelines, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses by 34% (National Center for Health Statistics, 2023). The cooktop’s timer function integrates with its heating elements, allowing precise control over thermal cycles. For example, longer durations on rear burners may require shorter times on front burners due to varying heat distribution (Whirlpool Technical Manual, 2021). Energy Star guidelines suggest that timer adjustments can save up to 15% in energy consumption by preventing unnecessary overheating (Energy Star, 2023). Additionally, manual time input via the clock keypad offers flexibility for non-standard recipes, a feature highlighted by 92% of users in a 2023 Whirlpool customer satisfaction report. These adjustments align with the cooktop’s design to balance safety, efficiency, and user customization.