Why Are Gas Ranges Being Regulated? What Homeowners Need to Know

You may be seeing more headlines about gas range regulations and wondering what it means for your home. Expect to continue reading and hearing more about gas range bans as states and municipalities take up legislative action. In May 2023, New York State included a proposal in its budget to restrict gas usage in new residential construction.
If you already own a gas range, there is no need to panic. These regulations generally apply to new homes, not existing ones. Homeowners with gas ranges are typically grandfathered in. Still, the conversation has raised important questions about indoor air quality, health, and proper kitchen ventilation.

Why Are Natural Gas Restrictions Happening

We discussed that topic with Matt Power, Editor of Green Builder Magazine, in an episode of our podcast, but the gist is that gas is a fossil fuel and, when burned, it releases harmful combustion fumes, such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, into your home.
According to a recent Forbes article, there are studies that show that “fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide are associated with accelerated age-related cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.” While climate and environmental impacts are often part of the public debate, the issue we can speak to with certainty is ventilation.

Learn more about kitchen air pollutants here, “Kitchen Air Quality Guide: Pollutants, Health Risks, and How Ventilation Protects You”

Do You Need to Replace Your Gas Range?

The short answer is no. It does not matter what type of range you use. Cooking always produces smoke, grease, oils, moisture, and airborne particles. Gas and propane ranges simply add additional combustion byproducts to that mix.
Rather than rushing to replace your gas range, the most important step is ensuring you have proper kitchen ventilation. With the right ventilation system, gas ranges can be used safely and responsibly.

What Is Proper Kitchen Ventilation?

Proper kitchen ventilation starts with a correctly sized, externally vented range hood installed directly over the cooktop.
Your range hood should be at least as wide as your range, with 30 inches being the most common width. It should also extend far enough forward to capture pollutants from the front burners, where most people actually cook. This is where many kitchens fall short.
Over-the-range microwaves generally do not provide sufficient capture because they rarely extend far enough over the cooktop. As a result, smoke, grease, and combustion fumes from the front burners are released directly into the living space.

Learn why microwaves fall short here, “Range Hood vs Over-the-Range Microwave: Why Proper Ventilation Matters”

Why Venting Outside Matter

Whenever possible, range hoods should vent air outside the home. External venting ensures that pollutants are fully removed rather than filtered and recirculated.
If your kitchen can only support a ductless hood or an over-the-range microwave, it is essential that the unit uses a charcoal filter and that the filter is replaced frequently. While charcoal filters can capture some odors and particles, they do not remove gases such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen dioxide.

Learn how to maintain filters properly, “Range Hood Filter Maintenance: How to Know When It’s Time”

Using Ventilation Consistently Matters

Yes, range hoods can be loud at higher speeds. However, a short period of noise is far preferable to prolonged exposure to harmful gases. Breathing in combustion fumes can worsen asthma, trigger respiratory symptoms, and contribute to long-term health concerns. Steam and grease can also damage cabinetry and make cleaning more difficult over time.
If a range hood is not available, at minimum, use any existing exhaust fans in the home. Opening a window can help, but only if outdoor air quality is better than indoor air quality. It is also important to remember that furnaces and air conditioners do not remove pollutants or bring in fresh air.

The Bottom Line on Gas Ranges and Ventilation

Proper ventilation supports a healthier home whether you cook with gas, propane, wood, or induction. Regulations may continue to evolve, but the need for effective kitchen ventilation remains constant.
By choosing the right range hood, venting pollutants outside, and using your ventilation system consistently, you can protect indoor air quality and enjoy cooking with confidence.

Learn more about indoor air quality and how it can give you a better quality of life by subscribing to our newsletter and podcast or by checking out our IAQ library.