When manufactured, gas and electric cooking appliances must meet minimum surface temperature requirements as set forth by UL and AGA (in the case of gas). Here is how they are tested and the requirements they must meet.

1. Product must be undamaged, correctly assembled and have the correct oven temperature.

2. All skin temperatures are based on a room temperature of 77°F (25°C) and a set oven temperature of 400°F.

3. Oven must be cycling at 400°F (204°C) for one hour before test is conducted.

4. Pyrometer (temperature meter) must be of high quality and properly calibrated.

5. An increase or decrease of 1°F in the ambient room temperature, will allow a 1°F increase or decrease in the maximum allowable surface temperature of the range.

Knob and handle temperatures on electric and gas ranges (including self clean cycle) are allowed to be up to 167°F (75°C) for plastic or plastic coated metal and 131°F (55°C) for metal. The dial or skirt may be up to 20 degrees hotter.

Knob and handle temperatures on electric self cleaning ranges during the clean cycle are allowed to be up to 182°F (83°C) for plastic or plastic coated metal and 152°F (67°C) for metal. The dial or skirt should not exceed these temperatures.

• AGA (American Gas Association)
• UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
• Cooking Surface Temperature Limits - Technical Manual W11544031 Rev A (PDF)