International Association of Certified Home Inspectors

Ranges, Cooktops and Ovens

Items You Can Check:

anti-tip device: Is there an anti-tip device installed? This bracket-type device at the back of the range prevents it from tipping if a child climbs on the oven door to see what's cooking on top, or as a way to climb their way up onto kitchen counters to reach cabinets. Most older ranges were installed without this device and you may wish to have one installed.

gas-flame settings: Set the control knob to the lowest setting. If the flames go out, is the gas still running? If all the flames are still burning, turn the range exhaust fan on high. Are the flames still burning? You obviously have a very dangerous situation if they go out in either instance and the gas continues to flow. Check for debris at the base of the gas jets (usually a round top-piece with holes for gas to flow that sits on top of a circular metal ring). If this is not the problem, call a professional to adjust your gas regulators.