Gas stoves offer even cooking, but it comes with risks.
Learn the health risks of cooking on a gas stove and how to protect yourself.
But the airinsideyour home can be a health hazard too.
Indeed, indoor air quality can be anywhere fromtwo to fivebutup to 100 timesworse than outdoor air quality.
Experts in This Article
Air Quality Program Coordinator atBoulder Countys Public Health Department.
The appliance is still legal, though, andmore than a thirdof U.S. households have one.
Air Quality Program Coordinator atBoulder County’s Public Health Department.
So what can you do if you fall into that group?
What chemicals do gas stoves emit?
The chemicals released from your gas stove are based on the source of the gas.
Most homes with gas appliances burn natural gas supplied by their utility provider.
Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) interferes with oxygen absorption in the blood.
However, according to theU.S.
Methane is particularly potent in this regard, with nearly80 times the warming potential of carbon dioxide.
But particulate matter (up next) is much more alarming when it comes to individual health effects.
These effects are most likely to affect children, older adults, and those with heart or lung disease.
Air Quality Program Coordinator atBoulder County’s Public Health Department.
Nitrous oxides (nitrogen dioxide)
Nitrous oxides may take the cake in terms of negative outcomes.
Research has actually linked gas stove exposure directly to asthma cases.
In Canada, theshort-term indoor nitrogen dioxide exposure limitis 90 ppb.
Its also a good idea to follow this maintenance protocol if the stove isnt functioning properly or sounding normal.
However, other gaseous pollutants are not as concerning in this regard.
Gaseous pollutants like nitrogen oxides, methane, and VOCs will dissipate and leave the house.
To optimize the effectiveness of your ventilation, be sure your range hood is regularly maintained and exhausts outside.
These filters capture larger aerosol particles but do not remove nitrogen oxides or other gasses.
To work effectively, these filters need to be cleaned or replaced regularly, says Hayes.
Hayes suggests opening windows, employing thehelp of a HEPA filter, or even using a box fan.
They do not remove nitrogen oxides or other gasses, he says.
However, many people keep HEPA filters running in their homes 24/7, which is optimal.
Use other cooking appliances
Theres the option of cooking less or preparing dishes that require less stovetop usage.
It can be a great practice to take a stab at limit how often youre employing higher-emitting cooking techniques.
These include recipes requiring long bake times including cakes, roasts, and stews.
Taking small actions to mitigate health risks, like employing proper ventilation, is a great place to start.
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