Gas stoves are an excellent option in the kitchen: they allow you to instantly adjust the power of the flame and reach the desired temperature very quickly. If you have never used it, the first time you may be a bit confused; after learning, however, you will find it as simple as the electric cooker. With the right precautions and precautions you will learn how to use it in no time.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Lighting a Gas Stove
Step 1. First, make sure you are not wearing anything dangerous
To avoid burning yourself while using the stove, roll your sleeves up past your elbows and tie your hair. If you wear jewelry, it is advisable to take it off.
Make sure your shoes are not slippery, to avoid accidents
Step 2. Turn the knob to the on position
Many cookers are equipped with an ignition knob that allows you to also set the intensity of the flame (low, medium or high). Turn the knob, wait for the flame to light up and then adjust the power.
It may happen that the flame does not light up immediately: this is common with slightly older stoves. Try again until you can turn it on
Step 3. If the flame does not ignite immediately, try cleaning the nozzles and burner holes
If the stove is clogged with food residues, it may not ignite immediately. Clean it with a stiff toothbrush (no water or cleaning products) to remove dirt and crumbs.
- Use a needle to remove stubborn residue.
- If your stove still doesn't work after cleaning it, call a technician. The nozzles may be broken and need to be replaced.
Step 4. Alternatively, turn on the stove manually
If the nozzle is broken, you can turn on the stove manually. Turn the knob to the middle position and use a match or lighter. Hold the match or lighter near the central part of the stove for 3-5 seconds until the flame is lit and immediately remove your hand to avoid burning yourself.
- To be safe, use a gas lighter with a longer handle. You can find it at any home improvement store.
- If you've never lit a gas stove or seen someone do it, it would be better not to do it yourself the first time. It may be dangerous.
Part 2 of 3: Use a Safe Gas Stove
Step 1. Check the operation of the pilot flame if the stove is an older model
Some old stoves have a pilot flame that stays on even when the stove is off. Check with the manufacturer to see if your stove has one. If so, remove the racks and lift the hob. The pilot flame should be a small flame positioned just below the stove panels.
If the pilot flame is off and you smell sulphurous, leave the house and call the emergency services, there could be a gas leak
Step 2. Never leave the stove unattended
When cooking with a gas stove, never leave the room: if the food is left unattended, it could catch fire. Be very careful.
Step 3. Use the stove only for cooking
Gas stoves are only made for cooking: never use it to heat the house. Keeping the stove on for long stretches of time can increase the risk of gas leaks.
If you have a gas oven, don't use it to heat the room
Step 4. Beware of wheezing and gas smell
If you notice a sulphurous smell, like "rotten eggs", or a hiss coming from the stove, leave the house immediately and call the emergency number. There may be a leak in your home which, if not repaired right away, could be fatal.
Do not light matches and do not touch the light switches
Step 5. Equip yourself with a fire extinguisher
Keep a fire extinguisher near the stove so you can easily find it in case flames start to break out. Also keep some baking soda handy, which is also useful for putting out small flames.
Always avoid throwing water on the flames, you could make the situation worse
Step 6. Keep all flammable materials away from the stove
Anything that is flammable, such as curtains or tea towels, could inadvertently cause accidents. Also, avoid using flammable items while cooking, such as cigarettes.
Step 7. Always turn off the stove after using it
To avoid accidents, always remember to turn off the stove after use. If you think you might forget it, write it down on a post-it to stick on the doors or on the fridge!
Part 3 of 3: Regularly Cleaning a Gas Stove
Step 1. Remove the grids and clean them separately
Remove the grates and place them in the sink after filling it with hot soapy water. Leave them to soak for a few minutes, then clean them with a sponge and rinse them.
Remove the burner caps and place these in warm, soapy water as well
Step 2. Remove any food residue with a damp cloth
After removing crumbs and other food residues, sprinkle a mixture of water and white vinegar on the stove. Let it act for a few minutes and rinse.
Step 3. Put the grids and caps back in place
After removing any food residue and stains from the stove, dry the grids and caps and put them back so that you can use the stove again.
Step 4. If necessary, clean the knobs and back panel
Use a damp cloth to remove dust and small spots. For stubborn dirt, use the same mixture of water and white vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse.
Advice
- Especially use the back burners instead of the front ones, to avoid dropping food on the floor.
- To use the stove safely, make sure your smoke detector is working properly and install a carbon monoxide detector.
- To keep the stove in good condition, clean it at least 1-2 times a month.
