Burnt Gas Smell From the Stove

Carbon Monoxide

• For the gas to burn properly, it requires the proper amount of air. If not enough air is reaching the natural gas flame, you may smell a burnt gas smell. In addition, the lack of air to the flame increases the chance of the oven producing carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless and invisible. The only way to detect it is with a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide detectors look similar to smoke alarms and install in the same manner.

White Deposit

• Occasionally, a white deposit with the consistency of soot or powder will form around a pilot light. This is a common occurrence generally caused by byproducts from the natural gas, a high sulfur level in the gas or a pilot light that's raised too high. In addition, these deposits can leave a burnt gas or other unpleasant aroma in the surrounding air. To help reduce the odor, regularly clean the white deposit off the pilot lights.

Burn-Off

• New gas appliances will require a "burn-off" of the grease and oils left behind from the manufacturing process. The owner’s manual of your new gas stove will give you the proper burn-off technique. Typically, you can burn off residue by turning the oven to 400 degrees and leaving it on for 30 minutes. During this time, keep the windows open to help ventilate the fumes. After the time has passed, turn the oven off and open the oven door.

Gas Leak

• If you suspect your stove or gas lines have a leak, immediately leave the house and contact your local gas company. According to Richmond Utilities, when in doubt, remove yourself and your family from the home and contact the gas company.

Pilot Light

• A common cause of a gas or burnt gas smell is the result of a pilot light going out. Pilot lights are a common sight on natural gas appliances including furnaces, water heaters and stoves. When the gas smell is coming from the stove, look for the pilot light. Typically, you can find a pilot light inside the oven by opening the broiler. In addition, most stoves have two pilot lights for the burners, which is located between each set of burners. To reach these pilot lights, lift the stove-top hood up. If any of the pilot lights are out, light them with a long match.