Every year, about 800,000 ranges are sold to consumers that are unsafe, but how can you know if you are one of the unlucky ones? 
There are certain signs that will tell you that your stove is not working properly and might even be a hazard. They are as follows:
- If you have a gas range and find that your eyes and/or nose are constantly irritated, there may be a leak somewhere and you need to call for assistance immediately. You might also be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. For any stove, if you feel dizzy or lightheaded, your stove may be polluting the air and you need to leave the house immediately.
- If the top of the range becomes very hot when the oven is on, there is a problem with your range.
- If the range seems lighter than you’re used to or seems to wobble, it could be easily tipped and injure you or someone in your household. Choice magazine ran an article recently warning consumers of this hazard.
- If you purchased an electric stove and the oven won’t heat up or the burners won’t go on, it indicates that there may be a short in the system.
- If you have a ventless gas stove and you find that the air quality in your home is poor – this is a common complaint about this type of stove.
Canada has banned ventless appliances, but they are still sold in the United States. - Knobs on the stove come off too easily.
Finally, if there is a recall on your stove, don’t use it. Some range hazards are created by you and should be taken care of immediately. These include:
- You have an overloaded outlet, if two or more major appliances are plugged into the same outlet.
- You find frayed chords connecting the range to the outlet.
- Smoke from the oven when baking indicates that there is likely a build-up of grease inside. This is a potential fire hazard.
- The oven door won’t close properly, so whatever you bake does not cook in the allotted time.
- Food and other debris have built up on the burners and smoke arises when you turn them on.
- Your stove is quite old and often needs repairs.
Many of these should be taken care of by you as soon as possible. Make sure that your range is cleaned regularly as well to avoid any potential hazards. As soon as you notice food or grease spills, let the oven cool and wipe them up. If you purchase a good range, proper care and maintenance will keep it operating effectively and you shouldn’t have any serious problems.
However, if you find that you do need assistance with maintenance, parts or repairs and live in the Los Angeles County area, go to www.chiefappliance.com. A West Coast Chief Appliance service technician will be happy to help you. The technicians are also available at no extra charge at night and on weekends and holidays. West Coast Chief Appliance also sells various models of new ranges.
