Most of us have a cooking range in our kitchens. Some of us call it a stove, a gas range or even a cooking top. The importance of having a gas cooking stove in our household cannot be ignored. It runs on natural or propane gas and fits several purposes. A perfect type of gas style has adjustable flame levels so that you can cook different types of delicacies for your family.
To ensure that you have a safe cooking experience, you must be in a cooking range that runs smoothly without any hiccups. Moreover, it should be easy to maintain and must have a long-running life. This article will discuss tips to enhance kitchen safety with improvements in the gas range.
The Components of a Gas Cooking Range
Before we discuss the safety features of a gas range or how to improve it, we must know about the basic components of a cooking range. A natural or propane gas source serves as a fuel to produce a flame. The knobs that you see on the cooking range help to control the flow. A simple spark is enough to ignite the flame on the cooking stove. You can fine-tune the flame according to the type of cooking technique. You can also see more about gas safety certificates of gas appliances here.
1. Ignition
Some of the cooking ranges come equipped with an ignition button. For such stoves, you will not require a lighter. To start the ignition, you must turn the stove on and rotate the knob counter clockwise. After this, press the ignition button to light up the stove. If you have a manual cooking range, then instead of pressing the ignition button, you will have to ignite the stove with the help of a lighter.
2. Flame Control
The knobs help to achieve the level of flame that you want to cook with. If you want to simmer your food, then ensure to turn the knob towards the lower side. If you want to boil something, then you will need the maximum level of flame.
3. Cookware Selection
Selection of cookware is as important as selecting any other gas appliance. Having wobbly pans increases the risk of fire in the kitchen. Ensure that cookware has a flat bottom so that it can provide uniform heat distribution. Moreover, it must also be stable enough and big enough to fit the size of the burner.
4. Safety
The most important point is that you must never leave a stove unattended, especially when you are cooking something. A cooking range left without supervision is a danger to the entire family.
Tips to Use Gas Stoves Safely
Many cooks prefer gas stoves, whether they are home cooks or professional chefs. This is because gas cooking ranges allow quick and uniform heat distribution. Moreover, it also gives precise temperature control when cooking food. The cook can also visually monitor the flame and heat of the gas range. However, similar to other appliances, you must use the gas stove correctly to maintain safety.
Everyone must remember that they are using a flammable gas to cook food. If you are not careful enough, then there is a potential fire hazard. Here are a few tips that you can easily implement in your home to improve kitchen safety with gas range improvements.
Check the Line for Gas Leaks
A common cause of explosions includes gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning. Never be reckless when dealing with gas appliances. Make a habit of checking all your gas connections and appliances yourself. If you notice any rusting or corroding on the gas pipes, then it is a sign that your gas appliances require maintenance. Moreover, you must also arrange gas inspections on a yearly basis.
Old gas pipes could get easily damaged. Therefore, try putting in your money to install newer pipes that are resistant to weather damage and have a longer life span. Be aware of the signs of a gas leak. If you do not know what it smells like, then research the internet for the signs. However, a general sign includes a rotten egg-like smell or a hissing sound from the gas appliance.
If you suspect that there is leakage, then inform your nearest gas inspector to get it checked. You can also check it yourself by pouring soap water on the location of the leakage. If you get confirmation, then switch off the burners and turn off the gas. Open the window and doors and vacate your premises. Inform your local gas supplier or fire department.
Remove the Flammable Objects From the Stovetop
One of the most common kitchen mistakes is leaving flammable objects near the stovetop. These flammable objects can be as simple as pot holders, wooden kitchen utensils or plastic containers. Most of these objects can easily catch fire in close proximity to the flame. You must keep all such things away from the burners. Also, keep an eye on loose clothing and kitchen curtains.
Do Not Leave the Burner on Without Ignition
Ideally, you should turn on the gas knob and ignite the fire immediately with the help of a lighter. You must not delay the ignition process. In some cases, you may hear a click, but the flame does not light up immediately; this is a sign of a clogged ignitor. Turn the burner off and stop the flow of the gas. Try cleaning the ignitor and wait for a few minutes before trying again.
Similarly, whenever you adjust the flame to the lowest level, never let it extinguish, as it may cause gas to seep. The burner turned on without a flame is lethal for many, and there have been many such incidents that have led to the death of residents.
Invest in a Cooker Hood
A ventilated kitchen is a safe kitchen. If your kitchen has no windows or ventilation source, you must invest in a cooker head. A cooker’s head efficiently removes smoke or fumes and odors. The best part is that it also gives a pleasant cooking experience. There are different styles and installation options of cooker heads that depend on your cooking space available. A traditional chimney-style cooker head can also be used.
Have Emergency Equipment Available in the Home
Keeping a portable fire extinguisher ready for emergency use is a great investment for your safety. A quick safety tip is to never pour water on gas range equipment that is on fire. It just spreads the fire instead. Instead, you need to cover it with a metal lid or use a fire extinguisher.
The majority of gas range fires are due to grease splattered on the stove burners or countertops. Therefore, always remember to wipe off the surface after using the stove. You can also keep a list of emergency contact numbers at hand in your kitchen.
Remember the Smallest Details
Often time, fire on stove ranges usually occurs because we ignore the simplest of steps. For example, always keep the cooking pan handles to the side or leave the burner unattended. Stay alert for any odd smell in your home or a change in the flame. You can even install carbon monoxide detectors and place them near the kitchen. In case the alarm sounds off, open all the windows and vacate your home.
Conclusion
The first step to enhancing kitchen safety with gas range improvement includes a selection of the perfect equipment. Keep in mind the space of your kitchen and your cooking needs. Look for several burners that you need and will be sufficient for you. Stick to the safety tips and always make an informed choice, as this is also important for your and