Abstract: A retention system with mounting features for a heating element of a cook top appliance is provided. The mounting features include a spring member that can properly position and support the heating element below the cook top surface. These mounting features, including the spring member, contribute to a low profile that can be used to reduce the overall height or thickness of the cook top so as to allow for increased oven space (where the cook top is included in a range) or increased cabinetry space (where the cook top is installed e.g., as a separate appliance from an oven).