Heating Problems

• Ovens are designed to reach high heats for cooking food. With a properly functioning oven, the oven should be monitored, though occasionally leaving the room is safe. If there is a heating problem with the oven, this heat can be potentially dangerous and even deadly. If you suspect your oven is not heating properly, do not use it. Instead, call a service representative. Remove all items surrounding the stove that can be burned. If possible, cut off power to the oven to prevent it from continuing to heat.
  
  

Carbon Monoxide

• Whether your oven is electric or gas-powered, a potential carbon monoxide leak is possible. A carbon monoxide leak can cause dizziness, nausea, headaches or fainting. Never use ovens that are powered by charcoal inside the home because the carbon monoxide created by this process can be fatal without the proper ventilation. Along with a smoke detector in your home, a carbon monoxide leak test kit and detector should be installed to monitor levels.
  
  

Gas Ovens

• For gas-powered machines, a damaged oven presents an especially dangerous risk. If your oven is leaking gas, an unattended oven can cause a fire, or the gas can suffocate individuals in the home. Scent is added to the gas so that you will notice if there is a leak. Never attempt to use the oven if you smell gas. If you notice the pilot light is out, turn off the gas valve. Ventilate the space by opening doors and windows. Do not use the machine again until a service representative has assessed the damage and made necessary repairs.
  
  

Toaster and Microwave Ovens

• Along with oven/range combination appliances, malfunctioning toaster ovens and microwave ovens present risks. Like larger ovens, toaster ovens use electric heating sources to heat food. If these sources are malfunctioning, such as the plate is overheating or a wire is frayed, this can cause fires. Microwave ovens rely on radiation to heat food. If there is a leak, exposure to this radiation poses many health problems.