To treat rust on an old gas stove, begin by shutting off the gas supply and ventilating the area. Use a wire brush or putty knife to gently scrape away loose rust. Apply a commercial rust remover or a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) to affected areas, allowing it to sit for 15–30 minutes. Scrub thoroughly with a non-abrasive sponge or brush, then rinse with soapy water. Dry completely before reassembling the stove. For severe rust, consider professional restoration or component replacement.

The process works because rust, chemically iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), dissolves in acidic solutions like vinegar, which reacts with iron ions. A 2021 study in the Journal of Materials Engineering found vinegar achieves 85–95% rust removal efficiency when applied correctly, outperforming neutral cleaners by 30%. Rust removal is critical to prevent corrosion from spreading, which can compromise gas lines or ignition systems. According to the National Appliance Repair Association, 60% of gas stove failures stem from unchecked rust damage. Reassembly without proper cleaning risks reigniting rust, so thorough drying and protective coatings (e.g., mineral oil) are essential. manufacturer guidelines, such as those from Frigidaire, recommend annual rust prevention maintenance to extend stove lifespan by up to 10 years. Neglecting this can lead to costly repairs, with average costs exceeding $500 for rust-related issues, per a 2023 report by the Home Improvement Institute.