with a gas stove, there is a risk that the
valve will be opened without a flame being
present, allowing for gas buildup which
can result in explosion or death from gas
inhalation.
to prevent this, a bimetal probe can be
suspended in the area of the flame from
the burner. this probe will
work in the
same manner as a pilot light for a water
heater. when the flame is present, the
valve is kept open. without flame, the
valve closes.
to allow for electric starters, when the dial
is is the light position, the probe is
disconnected from the circuit and gas
flows freely. the clicking that is already
present as a part of the electric starter will
alert the user to the presence of gas flow.