New study on gas stoves suggests leaks can’t be detected by smell alone

There’s even worse news for owners of natural gas stoves. Alarming research A paper has been published questioning the safety of natural gas. PSE Healthy Energy A Stanford study found that odorant levels in natural gas are not standardized, and that the odorants are often not enough that even people with an “average sense of smell” can’t detect leaks.
Odorants are added to natural gas (also known as methane gas) before it is pumped into your home, serving as your only line of defense against toxic gas leaks.
The researchers collected and analyzed 587 natural gas samples from 481 homes in 17 North American cities. The samples were tested for methane, benzene, hazardous air pollutants, and sulfur-based odorants. They modeled how much gas leaks could go undetected by a resident with an average sense of smell.
There’s even worse news for owners of natural gas stoves.
CNET spoke with PSE scientist Sebastien Rolland, who oversaw the study, who said that the inconsistent and often low levels of odorants in natural gas are a “major concern” and one of many reported dangers associated with natural gas.
“These small leaks are not enough to cause a gas explosion, but they are common and are difficult to smell,” Rowland said. “Because the leaks are so small, they can be difficult to identify and repair, and can leave benzene or methane in the room persistently.”
Rowland stopped short of calling for a ban on natural gas, but he said these studies should be taken seriously and that people who own natural gas stoves should Take precautions Against contaminated breathing air.
Benzene levels in Vancouver are 50 times higher than in other cities

A 2022 study found that gas stove leaks were more common than previously thought.
The study also found wide variations in the amount of benzene in natural gas between North American cities. On average, gas delivered to homes in Vancouver, Los Angeles, Calgary and Denver had twice the amount of benzene than other cities. Vancouver’s benzene levels were particularly high, nearly 50 times higher than Boston, which had the lowest levels.
Benzene is a chemical found in natural gas that is known to cause respiratory complications, acute myeloid leukemia, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
read more: Two shocking studies that may have sparked debate over banning gas stoves
Study after study shows natural gas stoves may be dangerous

Natural gas stoves have come under fire in recent years.
Other studies Several studies published in the past few years have cast doubt on the safety of natural gas in the home. One study found that natural gas stoves are more prone to leaks than previously thought. Another found that high levels of natural gas in the home are linked to increased cases of childhood asthma. In May of this year, a Stanford University study found that natural gas stoves are more prone to leaks than previously thought. the study People living in small homes or apartments have been shown to be at much higher risk than those living in larger homes.
Recent Class action lawsuit A lawsuit filed against Whirlpool alleges the appliance giant covered up the emissions risks of its gas stoves. To protect ourselves, we came up with this. Gas Stove Safety Guide This is to reduce the risk of contamination.