What the colour tells you
A well-adjusted gas burner gives a steady flame that is mostly blue. If the flame is yellow, orange, lazy or flickering, the gas is not mixing properly with air and not burning fully. Incomplete burning leaves black soot on pots and can produce carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas with no smell. That is why a yellow flame should not be ignored.
Common causes and safe checks
- Blocked burner holes from spilled food, grease or dust. When the stove is completely off and cool, clean the holes with a soft brush or a toothpick. Don't use a sharp pin that widens the holes.
- A wet or dirty burner cap that is sitting crooked. Dry it and place it properly.
- Low or uneven gas pressure, especially at peak cooking hours in winter. This is not something you can fix at home.
- A worn regulator, hose or stove air-mixing part. A gas mistri should adjust or change these.
Safety rules
- If the flame stays yellow after cleaning, stop using that burner and have it checked.
- Keep a window or ventilation open while cooking. Never use the gas stove to heat a closed room.
- If you smell gas at any point, don't cook or light anything. Follow the steps in our gas leak guide.
- Do not take apart the regulator, hose or valve yourself.