Whether the pilot light should always be on in a gas stove depends on the type of stove you have and its specific design.
Older gas stoves often had a continuously burning pilot light. The pilot light served as an ignition source for the burners and oven, making it easy to turn on the stove without the need for matches or a lighter. However, continuously burning pilot lights consume a small amount of gas even when the stove is not in use, which can add up over time and increase your gas bill.
Modern gas stoves, on the other hand, often come with electric ignition systems. These stoves don't have a continuously burning pilot light. Instead, they use an electric spark or a hot surface igniter to light the gas when you turn on the burner or oven. This design is more energy-efficient and eliminates the need for a pilot light that burns all the time.
If you have an older gas stove with a continuously burning pilot light, it's generally safe to keep it on, but you might consider turning it off if you don't use the stove for an extended period to save on gas usage. However, always refer to your stove's user manual or consult the manufacturer's guidelines for specific instructions on pilot light usage and safety.
For modern gas stoves with electric ignition systems, there's no pilot light to worry about, and you can use the stove without any pilot light always being on. The electric ignition will automatically light the gas whenever you turn on a burner or the oven.
If you're ever unsure about your gas stove's pilot light or how to operate it safely, it's best to consult the stove's user manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance. Safety should always be a priority when dealing with gas appliances.