In the U.S., 38% of homes depend on gas cookstoves.
But the safety of gas cookstoves has been called into question.
The appliance emits pollutants that are harmful to human health and the environment.
Photo:Adobe Stock. EatingWell design.
In fact, the more scientists understand these pollutants, the more concerning gas stoves become.
The gas is a respiratory irritant, exacerbating lung conditions like asthma.
Carbon monoxide also poses a risk to gas stove users.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is the more familiar risk, but it typically occurs only if a gas stove malfunctions.
Low levels of carbon monoxide emitted from a properly working gas stove can also have health consequences.
Environmental Consequences
Gas stoves are not just a risk to human health, though.
Methane is a strong greenhouse gas, over 80 times stronger than carbon dioxide, he said.
Because methane is so strong, those tiny leaks do matter, Lebel said.
And it’s not just from the gas appliance but the transport of that gas to your home.
Thats also part of the climate impact of burning that gas in your home.
Gas stoves have higher emissions than electric stovesespecially when you account for leaking, Jackson said.
The one that best suits you comes down to budget.
The trouble is, its an expensive transition.
But research shows it can have a big impact.
If replacing your stove isnt an option, you want to check that your stove is properly vented.
Many cheaper vents, however, arent actually connected to the outdoors.
These vents just recirculate or dilute pollutants.
Converting to outdoor ventilation is ideal but also expensive.
This will send some of the vent-recirculated pollutants outside.
you’re free to also reduce gas stove pollutants using an air purifier.
Be sure to choose one that picks up particulate matter.
Gas stoves do come with real health and environmental risks.
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