Rules of Thumb for Gas Stoves

Many gas stoves in Hawaii were originally developed for camping and fishing cabins, boats, yurts and tents, and other recreational uses. The key is that the materials used, the thickness of the steel or cast iron, are designed for intermittent recreational use, rather than everyday use. The recreation gas stoves are good products when used for their intended purpose, but may become unsafe when used daily to heat a home.

Rule of thumb: Make sure your stove is rated for residential versus recreational use.

Safety means that the area surrounding the gas stove is heat resistant, with tile, metal, or stone barriers; it has the proper amount of room from the stove to any surrounding wood or flammable material; and that the stovepipe is insulated. The stove needs to be on a level surface to work properly (air flow) and the connections and fittings need to be properly installed, including the fittings on top of the stove pipe outside to prevent accidents with sparks and birds.

Rule of thumb: Installation may be a job for a certified specialist, rather than a DIY. Stove manufacturers usually will also sell stove pipe and fittings that go with their stove, and will provide instructions for installation. This is not the place to save money by buying used.