Gas stoves have advantages, namely fast heat and simple temperature regulation. You may feel a little confused when operating it for the first time, if you have never done it before. However, once you know, using and maintaining this gas stove is as easy as an electric stove. As long as you take care of the stove and take precautions when cooking, you should be able to use it easily.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Turning on the Gas Stove
Step 1. Self-safety check before turning on the gas stove
To prevent fires when using a gas stove, roll up your sleeves above your elbows and tie long hair with a rubber band. If you wear jewelry, remove it before turning on the stove.
If you wear footwear, make sure the soles are not slippery to prevent accidents while cooking
Step 2. Turn the knob on the stove to start the fire
Most stoves are equipped with a knob to turn on the burner. Usually you can set the fire to “Low” (low), “Medium” (medium), and “High” (high), depending on the use. Turn the knob and wait for the burner to turn on, then adjust it to the heat level you need.
In some cases, the fire may not start right away. This is common with older stoves. So, nothing to worry about. Just try again by turning the knob until the burner turns on
Step 3. Clean the burner and lighter if the fire doesn't start right away
If the burner is clogged with food residue, the stove may not turn on right away. Clean burners and lighters with a stiff toothbrush (no water or cleaning solution) to remove grease or food crumbs.
- Use a needle to pry food debris from hard-to-reach places, such as burn holes.
- Call a repairman if the stove still doesn't turn on even after cleaning. Maybe the lighter is broken and needs to be replaced.
Step 4. Alternatively, turn on the gas burner manually
If the lighter is damaged, most gas stoves can still be lit with a lighter or lighter. Turn the knob to Medium, then turn on the match or lighter. Holding the lighter or lighter close to the center of the burner, wait 3-5 seconds for the burner to ignite. Withdraw your hand quickly so it doesn't burn.
- For the safest option, use a long-handled lighter. Long-handled clamps can be purchased at hardware stores.
- If you've never turned on a gas stove before or haven't seen anyone else do it, you shouldn't do it yourself. Turning on a gas stove manually can be dangerous if you've never done this before.
Part 2 of 3: Using Gas Stoves Safely
Step 1. Check the ignition trigger if your stove is an older model
Most of the old stoves are equipped with a trigger flame that will stay on even when the stove is turned off. Check the internet for stove make and model specifications to see if your stove has one. For models like this, lift the burner stand and open the hob panel. The trigger flame is a small flame located just below the stove panel.
If the ignition goes out and you smell sulfur, leave the house and call emergency services as there is a high chance that the stove has a gas leak
Step 2. Do not leave the stove on
When cooking on a gas stove, never leave the room. Fires can occur in seconds if cooking is not supervised. You should also keep an eye on the burner.
Step 3. Use the gas stove only for cooking
Gas stoves are specially made for cooking food only. Never use the stove as a heater as leaving the stove on for too long increases the chances of gas leaking.
If you have a gas oven, it shouldn't be used for heating either
Step 4. Pay attention to the hissing sound or smell of natural gas
If you smell sulfur like rotten eggs or hear a hissing sound from the stove, get out of the house immediately and call emergency services. The stove may have a gas leak and this is dangerous if not repaired immediately.
Do not light matches, use a flashlight, or turn the electrical outlet on and off if you suspect a gas leak
Step 5. Have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen for emergency situations
Keep the fire extinguisher in the cabinet near the gas stove in case of an oil fire. Also keep baking soda in the same cabinet. Pouring baking soda on a fire can extinguish a small oil fire.
Never throw water on an oil fire. Oil fires will ignite and even spread if exposed to water
Step 6. Do not place flammable materials near the stove
Flammable items, such as rags or curtains hung low, can cause accidents if placed too close to the stove. Keep flammable materials away from the stove and do not use flammable items such as cigarettes when cooking.
Step 7. Turn off the stove after each use
To prevent fire, do not forget to turn the stove knob back to the “Off” position after use. If you often forget to turn off the stove, put a reminder note in the refrigerator or in the cabinet near the stove to remember.
Part 3 of 3: Cleaning Gas Stoves Regularly
Step 1. Lift the burner stand and clean it separately
Remove the burner seat from the stove and place it in the sink. Fill the sink with hot water and soap. Soak the burner seat for a few minutes, then clean it with a damp sponge or cloth.
Soak the burner lid in water and wash it with hot water and soap
Step 2. Wipe off food residue from the surface of the stove with a dry cloth
Once all the food crumbs are removed, spray the surface of the stove with a bottle filled with one part water and one part vinegar. Let stand for a few minutes, then wipe with a damp sponge or cloth.
Step 3. Replace the burner stand and cover
After wiping food debris and stains from the stove surface, dry the burner stand and lid. Put it back in place so that the stove is ready to use again.
Step 4. Clean the knobs and back panel of the hob if necessary
Wipe the knobs and back panel of the hob with a damp cloth to remove any dust or small smudges. If there are larger food residues, just spray them with a mixture of water and vinegar and let them sit for a few minutes before wiping off.
Tips
- As much as possible, use the back burner instead of the front to prevent the pan from hitting the edge of the stove.
- Check your smoke alarm, if you have one, and install a carbon monoxide detector so you can use your gas stove safely.
- To keep the stove in top condition, clean it at least 1-2 times a month.
