No, you should not be smelling gas the whole time your oven is in use. The presence of a gas smell while your oven is operating is a cause for concern and requires immediate attention.
The smell of gas indicates a potential gas leak, which can be dangerous and pose serious safety hazards. Natural gas is odorless in its natural state, but gas suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a distinct, unpleasant odor (often described as a "rotten egg" smell) to help people detect leaks easily.
If you notice a gas smell while your oven is in use, follow these steps:
Turn off the oven: Shut off the oven immediately to stop any potential gas leakage.
Open windows and doors: Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors to allow fresh air to enter and disperse the gas fumes.
Do not use open flames or electrical devices: Avoid using matches, lighters, or any electrical devices (including light switches and appliances) while you are smelling gas.
Check for other signs: Look for other signs of a gas leak, such as a hissing sound near the gas line, bubbles in soapy water when applied to the gas line, or dead vegetation near the gas line outside.
Contact the gas company: Call your gas company's emergency line immediately to report the gas smell and let them handle the situation.
Do not re-enter the area: Wait until a qualified professional from the gas company or a licensed technician confirms that it's safe to re-enter the area.
It's crucial not to ignore the smell of gas. Gas leaks can lead to explosions or fires and can be life-threatening. It's always better to be safe and take immediate action by contacting the appropriate authorities.