Why do ovens smell when they are self cleaning?

When you run the self-cleaning cycle on your oven, the high temperatures (usually between 500 and 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit) can cause any food residue, grease, and grime that has accumulated inside the oven to burn off. This process can produce smoke and fumes that can be unpleasant and even harmful to inhale.

Some of the chemicals that can be released during the self-cleaning cycle include:

* Carbon monoxide: This gas is odorless and colorless, and it can be fatal if inhaled in large amounts.

* Nitrogen dioxide: This gas has a sharp, pungent odor, and it can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.

* Formaldehyde: This gas has a strong, irritating odor, and it can cause cancer in humans.

* Acrolein: This gas has a choking, acrid odor, and it can cause eye irritation and respiratory problems.

In addition to these gases, the self-cleaning cycle can also produce other harmful chemicals, such as benzene, toluene, and xylene. These chemicals can be released into the air inside your home, and they can pose a health risk to you and your family.

For these reasons, it is important to take precautions when using the self-cleaning cycle on your oven. These precautions include:

* Make sure that the oven is well-ventilated. Open the windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate.

* Leave the house during the self-cleaning cycle. If you cannot leave the house, stay in a room that is not directly connected to the kitchen.

* Do not use the self-cleaning cycle if the oven is damaged or if there is any food residue inside the oven. This could create a fire or cause the oven to malfunction.

If you have any concerns about the safety of the self-cleaning cycle on your oven, you should consult with the manufacturer.