Can Leaving The Oven On Cause A Fire? Solved (Updated)

Last Updated on July 14, 2024 by Shari Mason

What would be your response if your oven caused a fire by being left on? This is a frequently asked question, but the answers are not always clear-cut. Therefore, we are left to ponder, can a turned-on oven really start a fire?

This blog post will explore the dangers of leaving an oven on and what to do if a fire starts.

We will also discuss some tips for preventing oven fires from happening in the first place.

Can A Fire Happen By Leaving The Oven On?

Not really. While it is true that leaving an oven unattended can be a dangerous decision, the risk of a fire happening is quite low.

The most likely scenario is that food will burn or smoke, causing damage to the oven and potentially setting off the smoke alarm.

However, if you leave the oven on for an extended period, the heat can build up and start a fire.

This is more likely to happen if the oven is turned to a high temperature, so it’s important to exercise caution when cooking at high heat. In general, it’s best to turn off the oven when you’re not using it.

Read: How Do I Know If I Have A Convection Oven?

How Long Can You Leave The Oven On With Nothing In It?

Leaving the oven on with nothing inside is a safety hazard. It can overheat and start a fire. It’s also a waste of energy. If you’re not using the oven, turn it off.

If you’re unsure whether the oven is off, use a cooking timer or your phone to time the empty cycle. Most ovens have an automatic shut-off feature that turns the oven off after a certain period, but it’s best to err on caution and turn it off yourself.

Depending on the model of your oven, the average preheat time is between 10 and 20 minutes. That means leaving the oven on for 30 minutes will continue to heat up past the desired temperature, wasting energy and potentially creating a fire hazard.

So, how long can you leave the oven with nothing in it? The answer is no more than 20-30 minutes tops. After that, be sure to turn it off for your safety and to save energy.

Read: Anova Precision Oven Vs. Breville Smart Oven Air

Is Electric Oven Safer Than Gas Oven?

Though electric and gas ovens have pros and cons, many people feel they are the safer option. One main reason is that electric ovens don’t require an open flame, which reduces the risk of fires.

Additionally, electric ovens are more energy-efficient [1] than gas ovens, meaning they cost less. Electric ovens heat food more evenly, reducing the chances of burnt or undercooked food.

“If you play with fire, you’re gonna get burned.”

— Bam Bam Bigelow, American Wrestler

However, gas ovens do have some advantages. They usually heat up faster than electric ovens and are often cheaper to purchase upfront. Ultimately, it’s up to the consumer to decide which type of oven is right for them.

Read: Do You Leave Oven Door Open When Broiling?

What Can Cause An Oven To Catch Fire?

A build-up of grease and debris on the oven floor or walls usually causes oven fires. When the oven is turned on, the heat can cause the grease to ignite, leading to a dangerous fire.

In some cases, food that has been left in the oven can also catch fire. This is more likely if the food is high in fat or sugar, as these substances can easily ignite when exposed to high temperatures.

What To Do If An Oven Fire Starts?

1. Turn off the heat: This is the first and most important step. Use the oven’s automatic shut-off feature. If not, turn off the power at the breaker box.
2. Do not open the door: Opening the door will let oxygen into the oven, which will feed the fire.
3. Smother the flames: If you have a lid or baking sheet that fits over the top of the oven, place it over the flames to smother them. You can also use a fire extinguisher, but ensure you know how to use it before you need to. Never use water to try to put out a grease fire. 
4. Call 911: Once the fire is out, call 911 and tell them what happened. Do not try to turn the oven back on until a qualified technician has checked it and determined it is safe.

Safety Measures To Prevent Oven Fire

You can take other simple safety measures to prevent an oven fire.

First, make sure that your oven is clean. Grease and crumbs can build up over time and increase the fire risk.

Second, don’t leave food unattended in the oven. This is especially true if you’re cooking something that produces a lot of greases, like bacon or sausage.

Finally, don’t wear loose clothing while cooking. Long sleeves can easily catch on fire if they come into contact with a flame.

Following these simple tips can greatly reduce the chances of an oven fire in your home.

FAQs

In Conclusion

Prevention is always better than cure.

If you have a gas oven, check the hoses and valves regularly to ensure they are not leaking. A small leak can quickly become a large fire. When using your oven, never leave it on when you are not home.

Even if you are stepping out for a quick errand, it is better to be safe than sorry. Call your local utility company or the fire department immediately if you ever smell gas.

Reference:

1. https://www.cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/oven-versus-microwave-which-uses-less-energy/