How it Works
The gas range uses open-flame
stovetop burners: each burner has a heavy cast iron frame above it to support
pots and pans. These gas stoves regulate heat
with valves activated by dial knobs. Depending on the model, the knob may
double as an ignition switch or there may be an automatic striker or pilot
light ignition source.
Ranges usually include an oven for baking, roasting and
broiling. Some ovens use a fan to distribute heat for even cooking.
The gas range is connected by
pipe to a propane tank or to a natural gas line, and should be installed by a
licensed technician.
What Can Go Wrong?
Control valves regulate the flow of gas in each burner: when
those valves fail, the corresponding burner will no longer work. Failure of
such a valve may leave the burner in a set position.
Any impact to the stove top may damage the burner housing
and cause a gas leak.
Environmental Impact
Although the gas range is
more energy efficient than the electric stove because gas heats the food quicker, the
carbon footprint is generally the same: they each produce about 160 pounds of
carbon dioxide (CO2) per month.