Why Does a Gas Stove Put Off a Kerosene Smell?

Kerosene Smells and Yellow Flames

• When a gas stove burns with a flame any color other than the usual blue, it is usually an indication that the gas and air is not mixing in the proper amounts to burn cleanly. This can result in leftover gas not being burned, and create an odor that may be similar to a kerosene smell.

Wipe Down the Burners

• The simplest solution to a clogged burner is allowing the burners to cool, and wiping them down with a damp sponge. Bits of food and residual starch can clog the holes in your gas burners, and lead to fuel-to-air ratio issues. Wipe down all of your burners and clean the inside of your oven around the gas coil. Turn the stove back on and see if the odor issue has been resolved.

Soak the Burners

• Over time food and other debris can become clogged inside the burners and carbonize from prolonged exposure to high heat. Removing the burners and soaking them in a sink filled with soapy water can help loosen up the accumulated debris and clear out the clogs. Clean the burners with plain water after soaking and make sure there is no soap residue left on them before they are re-installed and tested.

Continuing Odor

• If cleaning the burners does not resolve the issue, contact an authorized repair center for the make and model of your stove. Leaking gas or carbon monoxide can be dangerous and hazardous to your health. A repair center will be able to test your stove for leaks and repair or replace any aspect of the fuel mechanism that is causing your problem.