Is it safe to use propane stoves indoors during power outages

I’m considering a propane stove for indoor use during power outages, aiming to keep the windows closed to maintain warmth, as it’s freezing outside. Our kitchen is quite spacious and connects to other rooms. Many homes in North America use gas stoves daily, yet I’ve heard some alarming stories. Can anyone share insights on the safety of using propane stoves indoors

The risk comes when people use them as a heating source instead of just for cooking. I use mine briefly for tasks like stir frying where my regular stove isn’t suitable, making sure to turn it off after about 30 minutes.

It’s definitely unsafe without proper carbon monoxide detection. Setting it up under a kitchen hood might help vent some gases out, but it’s essential to have a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector nearby when using it.

@Firth
Can you explain how propane combustion might produce carbon monoxide

Jordan said:
@Firth
Can you explain how propane combustion might produce carbon monoxide

When propane burns in limited oxygen, it can produce carbon monoxide. For example, a complete burn would turn all carbon in the propane into carbon dioxide, but with insufficient oxygen, some carbon monoxide can also form. It all depends on the oxygen available during combustion.

@West
Interesting, but how much carbon monoxide would this actually create

Bliss said:
@West
Interesting, but how much carbon monoxide would this actually create

The exact amount varies widely based on the room size, ventilation, and how long you use the stove. It could range from minimal to dangerous levels.

I replaced my propane stove after seeing how much pollutants it released through an air quality monitor. I grew up with one, but after seeing the health benefits of switching, I wouldn’t go back. In an outage, boiling water might be okay, but regular use has its downsides.

I would advise against using propane stoves indoors under any circumstances.

Blake said:
I would advise against using propane stoves indoors under any circumstances.

What alternatives do I have for cooking during a power outage then

Sky said:

Blake said:
I would advise against using propane stoves indoors under any circumstances.

What alternatives do I have for cooking during a power outage then

You can still use it, but take precautions. Make sure it’s in a large room like a kitchen, use a battery-operated CO detector, and only run the stove as long as necessary. A slightly opened window in another room can help with air exchange without losing too much heat.

It’s no more dangerous than using a natural gas stove, provided there are no leaks and there is some ventilation.

Using a propane stove is safe if there’s no gas leak and you ensure minimal ventilation. Many households use gas stoves without any problems. The main risk is from potential gas leaks, not from the operation of the stove itself.

A properly functioning propane stove with a blue flame should not produce carbon monoxide. The fear around this is largely exaggerated.

It’s not safe, especially compared to natural gas stoves. Propane is heavier than air, which means it can accumulate at floor level if there’s a leak, posing a significant fire risk.

Tatum said:
It’s not safe, especially compared to natural gas stoves. Propane is heavier than air, which means it can accumulate at floor level if there’s a leak, posing a significant fire risk.

Can you explain why it’s different from using natural gas

@Sky
Unlike natural gas, which is lighter and can dissipate into the air more easily, propane will collect at low points in your home if it leaks, creating a hazard. Additionally, camp stoves typically lack the safety features of built-in household gas stoves.

It’s slightly less safe than a built-in gas stove, but if you’re careful and use it under a range hood to help vent out any fumes, it can be manageable during an outage.

Max said:
It’s slightly less safe than a built-in gas stove, but if you’re careful and use it under a range hood to help vent out any fumes, it can be manageable during an outage.

Just remember the range hood won’t work if the power’s out.

@West
Good point! Maybe not the best idea then.