You smell gas near the range

Symptoms

• Rotten-egg or sulfur smell near the range
• Smell gets stronger near knobs or the back of the stove
• Hissing sound near a connection
• Smell lingers after turning knobs off

Likely causes

• CommonBurner knob left slightly open or not fully offA knob turned just past off can release unlit gas without igniting.
• CommonPilot light out on an older rangeAn extinguished standing pilot lets gas flow without a flame to burn it.
• PossibleLoose supply line or fitting behind the rangeVibration or a recent move of the range can loosen a flex connector.
• Less commonCracked or damaged gas hoseOlder flexible connectors can dry out and crack.
• Less commonLeaking valve inside the rangeInternal valve failure is uncommon but possible on old units.

What to do

1. If the smell is strong, do not flip any switches or light anything: leave the home immediately and get everyone outside.
2. Once outside, call your gas utility's emergency line or 911 from a phone away from the house.
3. Do not go back in to turn off the gas at the appliance; let the gas utility or fire department handle it.
4. If the smell is very faint and you can safely check, look at each burner knob and confirm every knob is fully in the off position.
5. If turning all knobs fully off stops the smell completely, the range may be safe to use again, but have a technician inspect it before relying on it.
6. If the smell returns or you are ever unsure, evacuate and call the gas utility again rather than guessing.

When to call a pro

Never attempt to find or fix a gas leak yourself. Call your gas utility's emergency number (free) or a licensed technician to locate and repair the leak before using the range again.

Safety