Hey everyone! I'm new to living on my own and have some concerns about my gas stove. I just moved into an old studio apartment built in the 30s, and there was a gas smell when I first arrived. Maintenance told me it was because the pilot light was out, but they fixed it. I'm a bit freaked out about what might happen if it goes out again while I'm sleeping, especially with gas and carbon monoxide. My landlord mentioned it probably has a gas shut-off feature, but I'm not sure. My dad thinks it could be really dangerous if the light goes out in the night. Is that true? Should I worry?
3 Answers
Most ovens with pilot lights are equipped with safety systems that cut off the gas if the light goes out. Older models might not have this feature, but it’s pretty rare. If your setup is older, it's smart to have a CO detector nearby. If the pilot keeps turning off, getting the stove replaced could be a good idea. Just make sure to check that there's a way to shut off the gas!
Yeah, if it's really old, that’s a good point about the safety systems. There are definitely modern options available now that are safer!
Good news is that without a flame, there’s no carbon monoxide. Gas leaks can still be a risk, but pilot lights are designed to release small amounts. If there’s a significant gas smell, that’s a concern. You might want to remind your landlord that they could be liable for not replacing the oven if it’s acting up. It's always good to crack a window for ventilation, too!
Exactly! Natural gas is lighter than air, so it rises and will usually dissipate quickly. Keeping your space ventilated is a smart move.
That makes sense! I had no idea gas was like that—definitely something to consider for safety!
Honestly, you should definitely get a combination gas and CO detector for peace of mind. Your landlord should think about replacing that old oven since it's pretty outdated. It can be a safety issue, especially if you can smell gas when the pilot light is out. Make sure to stay safe!
Totally agree! It’s better to be cautious. If you can, pushing for a replacement from your landlord sounds wise.