Kenmore gas range carbon monoxide safety notice — owners of Kenmore gas ranges, particularly Kenmore PRO and Kenmore Elite gas models, should maintain proper kitchen ventilation and ensure a working carbon monoxide detector is installed near the cooking area. This advisory is not a recall.
Why this matters
The 2010 CPSC recall of Kenmore PRO gas ranges (models 790.76913800 and 790.76913801) for carbon monoxide release highlighted a hazard present in any gas range with improper combustion. CO is odorless and colorless — it cannot be detected without a working detector. Even non-recalled gas ranges can produce CO if burners are misaligned, orifices are partially blocked, or the appliance is improperly ventilated.
CO detector requirements
- Install a combination smoke and CO detector within 10 feet of the kitchen
- Test the detector monthly and replace batteries annually
- Replace the entire detector unit every 7 years regardless of battery status
- Do not install the detector directly above the range — mounting on an adjacent wall 5 feet high is ideal
Warning signs of CO from your range
- Yellow or orange burner flames instead of steady blue
- Soot or black marks forming around burners
- Excessive condensation on windows when the range is in use
- Unexplained headaches, dizziness, or nausea when cooking
When to call a technician
Any yellow or orange flame pattern, sooting, or CO alarm activation requires immediate professional service. Turn off the range, ventilate, and call our Kenmore gas range service. Do not use the range until a technician clears it for safe operation.