- Gas stoves typically do not require venting because of the low amount of fumes they produce. Cooking on a gas stove will not produce what is considered to be dangerous levels of gases inside the home. Much of the gas energy is translated into heat. Most of the dangerous fumes are burned when the gas is lit, leaving relatively harmless vapors and fumes behind. The short amount of time pure gas is released into the burner field before being lit is not enough to be harmful to humans.
- There are no federal codes or regulations for venting gas stoves. Most counties, cities and towns do not have codes for venting gas stoves, however, some may have codes that require gas stoves to be vented. If you are installing a gas stove, it is wise to check your town or county office to see if any codes or regulations for venting gas stoves are on the books. If they are, then you will have to vent your gas stove by following their guidelines or risk a fine. If not, it is up to you to decide whether or not you need to vent your gas stove.
- Though many consider gas stove fumes to be harmless to humans, there is the chance that they can cause harm if inhaled too often or if there is too much exposure. Gas stove fumes may include emissions like CO2 and other carcinogens. Gas fireplaces, which burn for much longer periods of time, are vented and do require a direct vent to the outside. This is due to the longer period of time in which the gas is burning. During this time more fumes are released into the air, creating a higher density of what could be harmful fumes in the room. This is considered dangerous, so the venting requirement is enforced. During cooking, a smaller amount of gas is used and it is used for a much shorter period of time, which is why there is a difference between the two types of gas-burning appliances.
