Use of Gas Ranges for Cooking and Heating in Urban Dwellings

While several investigations have isolated kitchen gas ranges as a major source of indoor air pollution, such studies have only considered the normal operation of gas ranges for cooking. Two studies to assess the extent to which gas ranges are being used to heat urban dwellings are discussed. On the basis of gas consumption data and temperature measurements obtained in New York City during 1977, and actual observations of supplemental heating practices with gas ranges in 120 homes in the south Bronx, New York City, it is estimated that some 50-55% of New York City's gas ranges are used for both cooking and heating. Increased human exposure to carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide as a result of these practices is discussed. (2 graphs, 28 references, 4 tables)