Symptoms
- Darkened, bubbled, or peeling finish on cabinets next to the range
- Countertop material discolored or warped near the cooktop
- Heat felt strongly on nearby surfaces during cooking
- Range installed close to combustible material without a heat shield
Likely causes
- CommonInsufficient clearance between the range and combustible surfacesManufacturers specify minimum clearances that must be followed for safety.
- PossibleMissing or damaged anti-scorch/heat shield if one is required for that installationSome installations require a shield if clearances are tight.
- PossibleExcessive high-heat cooking directed toward one sideRegularly searing or using very high heat near an edge can accelerate damage.
What to do
- Stop using the burners closest to the damaged area until the clearance issue is assessed.
- Check your range's installation manual for the required minimum clearance to cabinets and countertops on each side.
- Measure your actual installation clearance and compare it to the manual's requirement.
- If clearance is insufficient, do not simply keep using it as-is, since this is a fire risk over time.
- Consider a heat-resistant shield product only if it's explicitly rated and recommended for this use, or better, address the underlying clearance.
- Have a kitchen contractor or appliance installer assess whether the range needs to be repositioned or a proper shield installed.
Tools and parts
- Tape measure
When to call a pro
Have a kitchen contractor or appliance installer verify clearances and recommend a fix, which may involve repositioning the range or adding a proper heat shield.
Safety
Use caution
Insufficient clearance from a heat source is a fire risk over time; avoid using burners nearest the damage until it's assessed.