Do You Need Separate Detectors for CO and Natural Gas?

A frequently asked question is, “Do carbon monoxide detectors detect natural gas?” It’s a great question and the importance of knowing the correct answer can’t be stated enough. It could ultimately mean the difference between life and death — literally!

 

What Are Carbon Monoxide & Natural Gas?

There are significant differences between carbon monoxide and natural gas. They are two completely different types of gases.

• Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide, also known as CO, is a flammable, poisonous gas that, when inhaled, could cause death. Additionally, it’s odorless and colorless, so you can’t smell or see it. It’s also tasteless, so there’s no way to detect it other than using a carbon monoxide detector.

• Natural Gas

Natural gas occurs naturally in the atmosphere. It’s a mixture of hydrocarbon gases (methane, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc.), with methane being the main component. Natural gas is found deep inside the earth and is not poisonous. However, it can cause death by suffocation if it displaces the air in any confined space.

Interestingly, natural gas is also colorless and odorless. So, an odorant is intentionally added to it so that the average person can smell it long before it reaches an explosive concentration level.

 

The Risks of CO & Natural Gas Leaks

Carbon monoxide (CO) leaks are dangerous because they interfere with the body’s ability to carry oxygen to its organs. The effects of carbon monoxide exposure are dizziness, confusion, fatigue, and headaches due to the body not delivering enough oxygen to the brain.

Natural gas leaks can quickly build into an explosive concentration. It can also cause fires and inhaling it can result in natural gas poisoning. The effects of a natural gas leak include dizziness, nausea, fatigue, headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, pale skin, and more.

 

Why Carbon Monoxide Detectors Can’t Detect Natural Gas

Carbon monoxide detectors can’t detect natural gas leaks because both gases have different chemical components; therefore, they require different detection methods. That’s why carbon monoxide detectors are designed specifically to detect carbon monoxide.

So, this answers the question, “Do carbon monoxide detectors detect natural gas?” The answer is no!

 

Why You Need Separate Detectors for CO & Natural Gas

You need separate CO and natural gas detectors because a carbon monoxide detector is designed only to detect carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide has different chemical compounds; therefore, it cannot detect natural gas. You will need a separate detector for natural gas for this same reason.

 

What Devices Can Detect Natural Gas?

Natural gas detectors are safety devices that continuously monitor indoor air. They will send an alert if the methane concentration levels rise. The alert is sent before methane concentrations reach explosive levels.

Natural gas detectors frequently use catalytic (Pellistor) or infrared (NDIR) sensors. These Pellistor/Cat Bead sensors detect the temperature differences between two beads, and this is how they detect a natural gas leak. Infrared sensors, on the other hand, detect natural gas by absorbing infrared light at specific wavelengths.

Natural gas detection devices are critical for identifying and avoiding potential catastrophic methane buildup.

 

How to Spot & Fix Gas Leaks in Your Business

Various methods can be used to spot and fix a gas leak in your business.

• Install gas detectors.
• Teach your team to be aware of and report unusual smells, such as the “rotten egg” smell associated with natural gas. And don’t fail to investigate all reports of strange and unusual smells.
• Teach your team to be aware of unusual sounds like hissing or whistling sounds frequently associated with gas leaks. If you receive such reports, investigate immediately. And if you can’t find the source of the sound, contact an expert to perform a gas leak check for you.
• Pay attention to the physical signs of a gas leak. Look for dying or dead landscaping near gas pipes or lines, bubbles in standing water, mist or white clouds near a gas line, or if you see dust or dirt blowing up from a hole in the ground.
• Monitor your gas meter.
• Use a gas leak detector spray.
• NEVER allow electronic devices or flames in or around an area with a suspected gas leak.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections of your gas lines.

 

What to Do If a Gas Leak Is Detected?

If a gas leak is detected, immediately evacuate the area. Then, contact the gas company emergency line, local emergency services, and a gas leak professional to resolve the situation.

 

Common Myths About Gas and CO Detection

These are the most common myths associated with gas and CO detection.

Myth #1 – You Can Always Detect a Gas Leak by Its Smell

False! Your sense of smell can’t always detect gas leaks. Gas leaks are frequently undetectable by a human and can sometimes be masked by other scents.

Myth #2 – All Gas Detectors Are the Same and Can Be Used Interchangeably

False! Not all gas detectors are the same and can’t be used interchangeably for different types of gas. You need a designated gas detector for each type of gas or group of gases.

Myth #3 – Gas Detectors Can Be Used Immediately after Purchase

False! Many gas detectors require an initial setup and must be calibrated and configured to match each environment's specific requirements.

Myth #4 – Gas Detectors Can Only Sense Explosive Gases

False! Gas detectors can detect explosive gases, toxic gases, and oxygen deficiency or enrichment. Comprehensive gas detection systems are critical when it comes to monitoring a commercial building environment and ensuring a safe workplace for your employees and guests.

 

Protect Your Business with Advanced Gas Detectors

Installing a high-quality gas detector for your commercial space is extremely important. Start by identifying any potential gas hazards at your location. Then, select an advanced gas detector that is specifically designed to detect those gases. Put a comprehensive gas monitoring system with remote alerts in place. Regularly monitor, maintain, and calibrate those systems.

It’s also a good idea to include smart features like data logging, smart alarms, and connectivity to make sure any gas leak is detected quickly and corrective actions are taken.

In addition, always train your team on emergency response actions in the event of a gas leak. Make sure all safety training is documented and signed.

 

Find High-Quality Commercial Gas Detectors at HVAC Jack

At HVAC Jack, we have various commercial gas detectors to suit all your building’s needs.

If you have questions or need help selecting the right gas detector, we have highly trained experts who will review our products with you to determine which ones best suit your needs.

Please Contact HVAC Jack today to place an order or speak with one of our experts.