Are Sealed Gas Burners Safer Than Open Gas Burners on Cooktops?

Open Burner Safety

• Traditionally, open burners were only used in restaurants, but they are now being placed in homes as well. In an open burner range, the space around the burner is left open to the area under the cooktop. This open space allows heated air to rise from within the cooktop and hit the bottom of the pan. Higher temperatures mean faster cooking. Higher temperatures also mean hotter cooktops that could lead to burns.

Sealed Burner Safety

• Sealed burners are inexpensive and are the type most commonly used in homes. On a sealed burner range, the cooktop surface extends right up to the burner, preventing spills from reaching the area underneath the cooktop. Aside from easier clean-up, this design means lower temperatures and a safer range.

Other Considerations

• Aside from safety concerns related to the basic design of open and sealed ranges, there are additional aspects to consider. Open and sealed ranges offer control knobs with push-and-turn safety features. These knobs make it harder for small children to accidentally turn on the range. Ranges are also available with knobs on top of the cooktop as opposed to the front, further reducing the risk of accidentally lighting the burners.

Kitchen Safety for Kids

• No matter how safe your range is, cooking with gas involves heat and an open flame. Implementing basic safety rules in your home can help prevent accidental burns. Use back burners whenever possible, and always keep pot and pan handles turned inward. Don't let spoons, ladles, spatulas and other utensil handles extend beyond the cooktop surface. Teach your children to handle appliances and utensils with care, and never leave them unattended in the kitchen.