In the US, 1 out of 3 homes cook with gas. It’s important that those who choose to use gas stoves are aware of how to properly ventilate to ensure their and their family’s safety.

Safety Concerns with Gas Stoves

Gas stoves emit air pollutants: most notably nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), but also particulate matter, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Indoor NO₂ emissions from gas stoves often exceed outdoor standards of 100 parts per billion (ppb) for a one-hour average, shown in the table below:

The pollutants from gas stoves can cause an increased risk of experiencing asthma symptoms or being diagnosed with asthma, cardiovascular effects, increased susceptibility to allergens and more.

Safety Tips

1. Install & Maintain Carbon Monoxide Detectors
   •  Use devices that meet safety standards and/or sound alarms at low levels. Ideally, install the detectors in the kitchen and in or near bedrooms.
2. Run Exhaust Hood While Cooking
   • Ensure kitchen hoods comply with all building, mechanical and gas codes.
   • Per CO G2407.5.1 (304.5.): The minimum volume of ventilation should be 50 cubic feet per 1,000 BTU/hr, which can be found on the rating plate located on the back of the appliance. There should be at least two bends so that there is no straight-line view from the ventilation hood to the outside. It should contain a baffle plate on the roof exhaust.
3. Open a Window While Cooking
4. Cook on the Back Burners
5. Opt to Use Other Electric Appliance Such as a Toaster Oven or Kettle
6. Consider Replacing Natural Gas Stoves with Electric Ones
   • You could be eligible for hundreds off in rebates towards an electric stove! Find out more at Rewiring America.