Gas stoves are often revered as the best option for professional chefs and home cooks. They offer fast, direct heat and have easy-to-use temperature control. All you need is a gas line and regular propane home delivery to use your gas stove. Forward Energy is dedicated to providing high-quality propane and excellent customer service.
With concerns about gas stoves and air quality on the rise, you may wonder if a gas stove is the right choice for your home. Before you commit to this sought-after appliance, here’s what you should know:
What the Difference Is Between Gas and Electric
Gas Stoves
Gas stoves use an open flame to heat and cook food. The stoves require propane or natural gas and may use a standing pilot light or an electronic ignition to bring the burner flame to life. Forward Energy is here to provide timely propane delivery to your home to keep your stove running smoothly.
With a gas stove, you can adjust the temperature more easily, employ diverse cooking techniques, and remove burner grates for easy cleaning.
Electric Stoves
Electric stoves may use a flat surface or coils, but both styles use electricity to heat the burners and oven. You need a higher-volt outlet to plug in your electric stove, as the standard voltage isn’t enough to manage this appliance.
Many people love the easy use and drier heat of an electric stove as well as its consistent temperatures.
How Gas Stoves Affect Indoor Air Quality
Cooking on both gas and electric stoves affects indoor air quality. When heating fats and oils at high temperatures, air pollutants are released into the air. The pollutants can cause respiratory irritation in sensitive groups.
Because gas stoves use propane or natural gas, they pose an increased risk of emitting carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Incorrect usage or improper maintenance of a gas stove can enhance issues with these pollutants. In excess amounts, CO and NO2 can cause headaches and nausea as well as respiratory irritation. Excessive exposure to NO2 is linked with an increased risk of asthma in children.
Understanding how a gas stove affects air quality is valuable, but it shouldn’t dissuade you from using one. With the right safety measures, gas stoves can make a great addition to your kitchen.
How To Use a Gas Stove Safely
As with any large appliance, taking proper precautions can keep you safe and satisfied. Here are a few tips for the safe usage of a gas stove:
- Install a hood: A hood goes above your stove and vents air outside. It can remove smoke and air pollutants from your kitchen to help keep the air safe.
- Use a fan: For kitchens without a hooded range, an exhaust fan can help keep air pollutants down.
- Open a window: If you don’t have a hood or an exhaust fan, opening a window or outside door may be the best option. If possible, open multiple windows to create an airflow that can ventilate your kitchen.
- Avoid confined spaces: Using a gas stove in a confined space can make proper ventilation difficult. Make sure there is room for the air to circulate around the stove and kitchen area.
Get Propane Home Delivery for Your Gas Stove
A gas stove is a great option for home cooks and professional kitchens. As long as you follow safety measures, you can use your gas range without worry. If you want to understand more, or if you need propane home delivery for your stove, contact Forward Energy. We can help you understand safe practices for using your gas stove and make sure you have the right fuel for all your cooking.