My burner flames are turning orange. Should I be worried?
If you have a gas-burning stove, you probably understand a lot of the benefits this can provide, and you’re probably accustomed to seeing the bright blue flames that signify it is working well. Therefore, it can be quite jarring if you notice orange flames are coming out of your natural gas stove. Why is this the case? What does this mean for your stove? Below, we discuss some of the contributing factors to the change in color and what you can do about it.
Your Flames Turn Orange When They Become Contaminated
The most common reason why gas stoves emit orange flames is that they have become contaminated with something, usually calcium. In order for your natural gas stove to combust properly, the right amount of fuel has to mix with the correct amount of oxygen. This leads to fire and carbon dioxide. If something offsets this balance, it can lead to something called incomplete combustion. As a result, the flame color changes because the stove is not working as well.
If something contaminates this fuel and oxygen balance, such as calcium, your stove is not operating at optimal capacity. As a result, there are cooler pockets in the flames, resulting in an orange color. (Blue flames are usually the hottest flames that come out of your stove.) You need to address the buildup of this contaminant in order to ensure your gas stove is working as efficiently as possible.
A Strange Phenomenon
Something odd that we’ve noticed over the years, is that people who run humidifiers in their home will also have their flames turn orange on their gas stove. This is caused as the moisture released into the air by the humidifier combines with remnants of partially dried water droplets which contain salts, therefore causing a similar effect as the calcium we talked about. If you are experiencing orange flames and are also running a humidifier, simply try turning off the humidifier and letting the air dry out before turning on the stove. Most likely, the flame will return to blue. If not, you may be experiencing one of the other contributors we are discussing here.
Orange Flames Could Also Indicate Unsafe Carbon Monoxide Levels
There are numerous reasons why you are fuel and oxygen balanced may not be appropriate. Even though calcium is one of the most common causes, there are other issues as well, and there could be an elevated level of carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious issue. This can lead to a variety of symptoms including headaches, dizziness, and nausea. In some cases, it could even render you unconscious, leading to an emergency. Remember that a gas stove is not a vented appliance. Therefore, you should only use it for cooking, not heating. If you do see orange flames, this could indicate a higher level of carbon monoxide, which is why you need to call a professional as quickly as possible.
Contact Sarah’s Appliance Repair for Help with Your Stove
If you see orange flames in your stove, this indicates it is not working as efficiently as it should. In order for you to keep your utility bills low and ensure the longevity of your stove, you need to address this issue as quickly as possible. That is where we can help you. At Sarah’s Appliance Repair, we can quickly diagnose what is wrong with your stove and get it fixed for you. If you’re concerned about your stove or any other home appliances, contact us today for personalized, friendly service!
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