Best Natural Gas Leak Detector

Natural gas is a widely used and valuable source of energy in many households and industries. However, gas leaks can pose serious risks, including fire, explosions, and health hazards. In this article, we will explore the importance of detecting natural gas leaks and the necessity of using a natural gas leak detector. It will discuss the dangers of natural gas leaks and the types of detectors available in the market. It will also cover how a natural gas leak detector works and the features to consider when choosing one. Proper use, installation, and maintenance of a gas leak detector will also be discussed, along with what to do in the event of a gas leak detection. By understanding the significance of natural gas leak detection and utilizing the right tools and practices, individuals can protect themselves and their surroundings from potential dangers.

✅ Pros	☢️ Cons
✅ Natural Gas Leak Detectors are sensitive and find leaks to prevent explosions	☢️ Natural Gas is dangerous as it can accumulate and become explosive
✅ Natural Gas Leak Detectors cost between $80 to $300	☢️ Natural Gas is primarily made up of methane gas with other combustibles
✅ Natural Gas Leak Detectors are used for both residential and industrial applications	☢️ Natural Gas Leak Detectors do not detector carbon dioxide gas
✅ Natural Gas Leak Detectors are made with highly sensitive gas sensors and come with a gooseneck design	☢️ Natural Gas Leaks can be detected by mercaptan smell, but impossible to locate it with the human nose

What is a Natural Gas Leak Detector?

A natural gas leak detector is a device that is designed to detect the presence of natural gas in the air. Natural gas is a colorless and odorless gas that is used as a fuel for heating, cooking, and other purposes. However, natural gas can be dangerous if it leaks from pipes or appliances and accumulates in an enclosed space. A natural gas leak detector can sense the presence of natural gas and alert people to the danger, allowing them to take action to prevent an explosion or fire. Some natural gas leak detectors use sensors to detect the gas, while others use alarms that sound when the gas is detected.

7 Best Natural Gas Leak Detectors?

The best Natural Gas Leak Detectors Include: 

• Forensics Detectors Gas Leak Detector
• Klein Tools Combustible Gas Leak Detector
• UEI Gas Leak Detector
• Ridgid Combustible Gas Leak Detector
• PCE Ultrasonic Gas Leak Detector
• Sensit Leak Detector
• Extech Gas Leak Combustible Detector

Forensics Detectors Natural Gas Leak Detector?

The key features of the Forensics Detectors Natural Gas Leak Detector include a gooseneck and a sensor for detecting combustible natural gas, a display that shows the gas concentration level detected, and the ability to read the concentration in parts per million (ppm) scale.

CASE STUDY: Amazon Customer Feedback

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Extremely useful, detected a leak that PSE&G did not detect in 2 attempts!
Reviewed in the United States on July 23, 2022 (see Tips at end)
I purchased this because we smelled gas in the basement, but PSE&G could not detect it with their meter. I calibrated it and it was detecting gas *everywhere* inside. That made me skeptical, so I put it to the stove burner (running but not lit) and it pegged high.

I put it outside and it went back to zero. So I felt like it was working. After checking the whole house, I isolated the highest readings to the gas water heater. I did not see the pilot tube corrosion because it was under the tube not on top. I called PSEG again, another guy shows up and commented the Forensics meter is “too sensitive to be useful”.

Well again, his meter didn’t pick up anything in the house. I bring him to the water heater and his meter is STILL not getting anything (!). I showed him 2 places I was getting very high readings, the thermostat and the exhaust up top. After like 10 minutes, he visually locates the corroded pilot tube. Long story short it got fixed and now my Forensics meter reads ZERO all around the house including the water heater. Despite my concern, it was accurate the whole time. I have decades of experience with high-end electronic test equipment. My expectations were low for this being only $100. But this meter proved itself against the big boys, it may not read the exact PPM, but it’s a useful relative indicator and you can trace a leak with it. I’m sure this will come in handy again.

TIP 1 – based on the reviews of people breaking it, I am VERY careful with it. It’s weighted kind of awkwardly due to the top-heavy sensor so just treat it like it’s a Champaign glass. I carry it from the tube so it’s balanced.

TIP 2 – make sure you calibrate it outside where there’s zero gas

TIP 3 – natural gas rises and it’s shocking how much that tiny leak filled the house with detectable gas! Do not be surprised if you get readings far away from the source of the leak!

What is a Natural Gas Leak?

A natural gas leak is an accidental or unintended release of natural gas from pipelines, storage tanks, or other sources. Natural gas is a colorless and odorless gas that is composed mainly of methane and is used as a fuel for heating, cooking, and other purposes. However, natural gas is highly combustible and can be dangerous if it leaks from pipes or appliances and accumulates in an enclosed space.

A natural gas leak can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as corrosion of pipelines, faulty valves or connections, or damage to the pipeline due to excavation activities. Natural gas leaks can be detected by the distinctive odor added to the gas, which smells like rotten eggs. If you suspect a natural gas leak, it is important to evacuate the area immediately and call your local gas company or emergency services. Igniting a flame or operating electrical switches or appliances can create a spark and ignite the gas, causing an explosion or fire.

Why Detect Natural Gas Leaks with a Detector?

Detecting natural gas leaks is important for several reasons:

1. Safety: Natural gas is a highly combustible substance, and a gas leak can lead to an explosion or fire. Detecting a leak early can help prevent these dangerous situations and protect people and property.
2. Health: Natural gas leaks can also cause health problems, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and breathing difficulties. Long-term exposure to natural gas can lead to more serious health issues.
3. Environment: Natural gas is a greenhouse gas, and leaks contribute to global warming. Detecting and repairing leaks can help reduce the impact of natural gas on the environment.
4. Cost: Natural gas leaks can be costly, as they can lead to wasted energy and higher utility bills. Detecting and repairing leaks can help save money in the long run.

Signs of a Natural Gas Leak?

There are several signs of a natural gas leak that you can look out for:

1. Smell: Natural gas is odorless, but a chemical called mercaptan is added to it to give it a distinctive rotten egg smell. If you smell this odor, it could be a sign of a gas leak.
2. Hissing or whistling sound: If you hear a hissing or whistling sound near a gas appliance or pipeline, it could be a sign of a gas leak.
3. Dead plants or vegetation: If you notice dead plants or vegetation near a gas pipeline, it could be a sign of a gas leak. Natural gas can displace oxygen in the soil, causing plants to die.
4. Bubbles in water: If you notice bubbles in standing water or near a gas pipeline, it could be a sign of a gas leak.
5. Dizziness or nausea: If you experience dizziness, nausea, or headaches, it could be a sign of a gas leak. These symptoms can occur when you inhale natural gas.

CASE STUDY: Smell Trace Gas?

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Works great, sensitive, descrete readings, easy to use
Reviewed in the United States on December 5, 2022

This little meter works great. Used it to pinpoint a tiny natural gas leak at the back of a range, probably since it was installed two years ago. Well worth it. Appears sensitive (picked up natural gas at a level below what my wife and I could smell), has a nice digital readout, simple to operate.

My wife and I would very occasionally smell a trace of gas near the range, but could not pinpoint it. The majority of the time we could smell nothing no matter how hard we tried, and assumed it was associated with the small amount of gas that would escape before the burners lit. I grew suspicious and bought this meter. Immediately it detected the hotspot was where the range met the wall at the back. I pulled out the range, and the hose and valves looked new and in good shape. Further detective work with the meter narrowed it down to the connection at the valve. I unscrewed the hose and found that the installers didn’t use tape or pipe thread compound! Added gas pipe tape, screwed everything back together, and all is good as confirmed by the meter. Nice product!

Is Natural Gas Dangerous to my Health?

Yes, natural gas can be dangerous to health if it leaks from pipelines or appliances and accumulates in an enclosed space. Natural gas is composed mainly of methane, which is a colorless and odorless gas that can cause health problems when inhaled in high concentrations.

Short-term exposure to natural gas can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and breathing difficulties. In high concentrations, natural gas can displace oxygen in the air, leading to asphyxiation and death.

Long-term exposure to natural gas can also lead to more serious health problems, such as respiratory problems, neurological damage, and cancer.

It is important to have natural gas appliances and pipelines inspected regularly and to be aware of the signs of a gas leak. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the area immediately and call your local gas company or emergency services. Do not ignite a flame or operate electrical switches or appliances, as this can create a spark and ignite the gas.

Is Natural Gas Explosive?

Yes, natural gas is explosive if it leaks from pipelines or appliances and accumulates in an enclosed space. Natural gas is composed mainly of methane, which is a highly combustible gas that can ignite if it comes into contact with a spark or flame.

If natural gas leaks from a pipeline or appliance and accumulates in an enclosed space, it can create an explosive atmosphere. If a spark or flame ignites the gas, it can cause an explosion or fire that can be very dangerous and destructive.

It is important to have natural gas appliances and pipelines inspected regularly and to be aware of the signs of a gas leak. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the area immediately and call your local gas company or emergency services. Do not ignite a flame or operate electrical switches or appliances, as this can create a spark and ignite the gas.

CASE STUDY: Oven with a Natural Gas Leak Detector?

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Worked Perfectly to detect a gas leak
Reviewed in the United States on September 24, 2021

I had a slight gas leak from an oven which I was trying to locate. There was sometimes a faint smell of gas in the house. I could smell it from the back of the oven but I couldn’t determine, using my nose, if it was a loose connection or a sticking valve.

Originally I bought a cheap gas detector from the PANGAEA brand for $25. This had a range of 0 – 10,000 ppm but it’s sensitivity was terrible. I zeroed it outside the house but the only gas it would detect was if I switched a burner on.

This Forensics detector is amazing. I zeroed it outside the house again. As soon as I bought it inside the house it registered 70 ppm. It was sensitive enough that I could hold the sensor over the various connections and pin down the leak to the valve going to the oven and not the broiler.

It’s 4x the price but it works. The ability to zero the readings, switch the sensitivity between high and low and to switch the buzzer off are useful. It’s small and feels good in the hands with the rubber finish.

How to Use a Natural Gas Leak Detector?

If you suspect you have a natural gas leak, you should use a tool such as a Natural Gas Leak Detector.

• Begin by turning on the Natural Gas Leak Detector and allowing it to start operating after the countdown.
• Next, perform a quick bump test to ensure the analyzer is functional. You can do this by exposing it to some natural gas or propane from your stovetop or other controlled source. The point here is to confirm the Natural Gas Leak Detector is indeed operating.
• Once you have completed the bump test, take the Natural Gas Leak Detector and scan the area of interest, moving about 2 seconds per inch. Be patient and thorough to ensure you capture any natural gas.
• Typical areas of leakage occur at gas lines, joints, valves, and fittings, as well as around the gas appliances. Make sure to check these locations.
• Observe the detector’s response. The units have a digital readout in PPM and %LEL so it is very sensitive.
• If you have confirmed a gas leak, ensure you take appropriate action to maximize safety. This may involve turning off the gas supply, evacuating the area, and contacting a qualified professional or emergency services to address the situation.

Does Lowes sell Natural Gas Detectors?

Yes.

Lowe’s sells gas leak detectors with the capability to detect a number of combustible gases that are used to find Natural Gas Leaks.

Does Home Depot Have Natural Gas Detectors?

Yes, Home Depot sells combustible gas detectors that can detect natural gas leaks.

Electronic Gas Leak Detector

When it comes to detecting natural gas leaks, Electronic Gas Detectors are an essential tool. These detectors utilize semiconducting metal oxide sensors (usually made in Japan, low quality are made in China) technology to sense the presence of hazardous gases and provide an early warning to prevent potential disasters.

1. Sensor Technology: Electronic Gas Detectors incorporate semiconducting metal oxide film sensors that detect combustible gases such as methane, propane, butane, alcohol vapors, gasoline vapors, and many others. These sensors last for over 10 years, are VERY reliable, low cost, and have stood the test of time.
2. Real-time Monitoring: Electronic Gas Detectors continuously monitor the air for gas leaks, providing real-time updates and alerts if any hazardous gases are detected. This allows for immediate action to be taken.
3. Multiple Gas Detection: Some Electronic Gas Detectors are designed to detect multiple gases, offering protection against various hazardous gases in different environments. This feature is particularly important in industrial settings or areas where multiple gases may be present.
4. Visual and Audible Alarms: When a gas leak is detected, Electronic Gas Detectors emit loud alarm sounds and may also display visual alert signals. This ensures that people in the vicinity are alerted to the presence of hazardous gases, even if they may not be able to smell them.
5. Portable Design: Electronic Gas Detectors are often designed to be portable, allowing for easy movement and use in different areas. This portability is especially beneficial for professionals who need to conduct inspections or for individuals who want to ensure gas safety in their homes.

Infrared Gas Leak Detectors

Infrared gas detectors, commonly used in industrial settings, are a type of natural gas leak detector but are more often used for refrigeration, halogen gas leak detection since they are much more expensive. They operate by measuring the infrared radiation emitted by gases. These detectors work based on the principle that different gases absorb and emit infrared radiation at specific wavelengths. Their sensors can detect the presence of specific gases by measuring the amount of infrared radiation absorbed or emitted by the gas. Infrared gas detectors have a wide detection range, capable of identifying gases like methane, propane, butane, and other hydrocarbons, as well as carbon dioxide and certain toxic gases. Highly sensitive and accurate, these detectors can detect gas leaks at low concentrations and provide real-time readings, allowing for early warnings and prevention of accidents. With a fast response time, they quickly detect and alert to the presence of gas leaks, enabling immediate action to mitigate risks. Infrared gas detectors find applications in various environments such as industrial plants, refineries, manufacturing facilities, residential settings, and commercial buildings. It is important to perform regular maintenance and calibration of these detectors to ensure reliable and accurate performance. They offer several advantages, including high sensitivity, fast response time, the ability to detect a wide range of gases, non-intrusiveness, and usability in hazardous environments. However, it is worth noting that these detectors may not effectively detect certain gases that do not absorb or emit infrared radiation and their effectiveness can be influenced by factors such as temperature and humidity. Considering factors like sensitivity, accuracy, and response time is crucial when choosing an infrared gas detector. Their use is highly recommended in both industrial and residential settings to ensure the safety of individuals and property, helping prevent potentially serious situations like gas explosions and house fires.

Natural Gas Leak (from a fireplace)?

If you suspect a natural gas leak in your fireplace, it is important to take immediate action to prevent a dangerous situation. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Turn off the gas supply: If you suspect a gas leak in your fireplace, turn off the gas supply to the fireplace immediately. This will prevent more gas from entering the fireplace and reduce the risk of an explosion or fire.
2. Open windows and doors: Open windows and doors in the room to ventilate the area and allow the gas to dissipate.
3. Evacuate the area: Evacuate the room and the building immediately. Do not use any electrical switches or appliances, as this can create a spark and ignite the gas.
4. Call your gas company or emergency services: Call your gas company or emergency services to report the gas leak. They will send a technician to inspect the fireplace and fix the problem.
5. Do not use the fireplace until it has been inspected: Do not use the fireplace until it has been inspected and repaired by a qualified technician. Using the fireplace before it has been inspected can be dangerous and increase the risk of a gas leak.

It is important to have your fireplace and gas appliances inspected regularly to prevent gas leaks and ensure their safe operation.

🦜 FUN FACT TIME 🦜

According to the Environmental Defense Fund, significant methane emissions are generated during the production, processing, and distribution of natural gas, contributing to global warming. It is estimated that methane emissions from the oil and gas sector are responsible for approximately 25% of the current climate change. Detecting and reducing natural gas leaks is a crucial step in mitigating these emissions and addressing climate change.

Is Methane Gas the Same as Natural Gas?

Methane is a component of natural gas, but natural gas is not entirely made up of methane. Natural gas is a mixture of hydrocarbons, primarily consisting of methane, but it can also contain other gases such as ethane, propane, butane, and pentane.

Methane is the main component of natural gas, typically making up around 70-90% of its composition. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is highly flammable and is used as a fuel for heating, cooking, and electricity generation.

What is Natural Gas?

Natural gas is a fossil fuel that is primarily composed of methane, but it can also contain other hydrocarbons such as ethane, propane, butane, and pentane. It is formed over millions of years from the remains of plants and animals that were buried and subjected to high heat and pressure in the Earth’s crust.

Natural gas is typically found in underground reservoirs or in association with other fossil fuels such as coal or oil. It is extracted from the ground using drilling techniques and then processed to remove impurities such as water, carbon dioxide, and sulfur compounds.

Natural gas is a versatile fuel that can be used for a variety of purposes, including heating homes and buildings, generating electricity, and powering vehicles. It is also used as a feedstock in the production of chemicals and other products.

Compared to other fossil fuels, natural gas is considered a cleaner-burning fuel, as it produces fewer emissions of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and particulate matter. However, it is still a non-renewable resource and its extraction and use can have environmental impacts, such as methane emissions during production and transportation.

What is The Difference Between Natural Gas and Propane Gas?

Natural gas and propane are both fossil fuels used for heating and cooking, but there are some key differences between them:

1. Composition: Natural gas is primarily composed of methane, while propane is a hydrocarbon that is a byproduct of natural gas processing and petroleum refining.
2. Energy content: Propane has a higher energy content than natural gas, which means it can produce more heat per unit of volume. This makes propane a more efficient fuel for heating.
3. Storage: Natural gas is typically delivered to homes and businesses through pipelines, while propane is stored in tanks. This means that propane can be used in areas where natural gas is not available.
4. Pressure: Natural gas is delivered to homes and businesses at a low pressure, while propane is delivered at a higher pressure. This means that propane requires special equipment to regulate its pressure and ensure safe use.
5. Cost: The cost of natural gas is typically lower than propane, but this can vary depending on location and availability.

In summary, while both natural gas and propane are fossil fuels used for heating and cooking, they differ in their composition, energy content, storage, pressure, and cost. The choice between natural gas and propane often depends on factors such as availability, cost, and the specific needs of the user.

Can an Oven or Stovetop Leak Natural Gas?

Yes, an oven can potentially leak natural gas if there is a problem with its gas supply or gas line. Natural gas leaks can occur due to a variety of issues, such as a damaged gas line, loose connections, or faulty valves.

What are Safe Natural Gas Levels?

The safe natural gas levels depend on the concentration of natural gas in the air. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set a permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 1,000 parts per million (ppm) for workers who are exposed to natural gas for up to eight hours a day.

However, natural gas is odorless and colorless, so gas companies add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a distinctive odor that can be detected at much lower concentrations. The typical odor threshold for natural gas is around 1 ppm, which means that most people can detect the smell of natural gas at very low levels.

Will my Natural Gas Leak Detector alarm to Carbon Monoxide Gas?

No, a natural gas leak detector will not alarm to carbon monoxide gas. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a different gas that is produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, and wood are burned without sufficient oxygen.

To detect carbon monoxide, you will need a carbon monoxide detector, which is designed to measure the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air. Carbon monoxide detectors use electrochemical sensors to detect the gas, and they typically sound an alarm when the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air reaches a dangerous level.

Conclusion

• Natural Gas Leak Detectors are essential for detecting and preventing gas leaks, keeping people and property safe.
• Gas leaks can pose serious dangers, including fire, explosions, and health risks, making it crucial to have a reliable detector.
• There are various types of natural gas leak detectors available, including electronic, combustible, ultrasonic, and infrared detectors, each with its own strengths and applications.
• When selecting a detector, consider factors such as sensitivity, accuracy, alert system, and battery life to ensure effective and efficient monitoring.
• Proper installation and use of a natural gas leak detector is important to ensure its effectiveness in detecting and alerting to potential leaks.
• If a gas leak is detected, it is crucial to follow proper safety protocols, such as evacuating the area and contacting the gas company for professional assistance.
• Maintaining and regularly testing the gas leak detector is essential to ensure its continued reliability and functionality.

The Author

Dr. Koz resides in the Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles, California. He is a subject matter expert on gas leak detectors, gas sensor technology, gas detectors, gas meters, and gas analyzers.  He has been designing, building, manufacturing, and testing toxic gas detection systems for over 20 years. Every day is a blessing for Dr. Koz. He loves to help customers solve their unique problems.

Email: drkoz@gasleakdetector.com
Phone: +1 424-341-3886