Natural Gas Detectors

A natural gas detector is a critical lifesaving device that adds an additional layer of protection for your property and loved ones.

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The primary sign of a natural gas leak is the smell of rotten eggs. Learn more about recognizing a gas leak.

A natural gas detector is an additional layer of protection that will alert you to a potential natural gas leak inside your home or business. The detector works like a smoke detector, using an internal sensor to measure the concentration of methane in the air, the primary component of natural gas. When a potential leak is detected, the device will sound an alarm signaling everyone to safely evacuate the building before notifying emergency officials and Unitil.

The Benefits of Early Detection:

Installing a natural gas detector is one of the smartest safety decisions you can make. Here’s why:

Early Warning: It can detect slow, small leaks that you might not smell immediately, especially if you are in a different part of the house or asleep.
Protection for Everyone: The sense of smell can vary from person to person and can be diminished by age, allergies, or illness. A detector provides consistent protection for everyone, including children, older adults, and even pets.

More Tips

There are a range of detectors available on the market. If you are shopping for a natural gas detector for your home, look for a unit that is UL 1484 (Underwriters Laboratories) listed to ensure it meets rigorous safety standards.

Some models are plug-in, while others are hardwired or battery powered. If you choose a battery-powered model, look for one with a lifetime battery. Note that these units have an expected lifespan of five to ten years.

You can find natural gas detectors at most hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers.

Because natural gas (methane) is lighter than air, it will rise and accumulate near the ceiling. Natural gas detectors should be installed in or near rooms where natural gas appliances are located. This could include: the kitchen (stove), utility room (furnace, water heater, dryer), or a living room with a gas fireplace. NFPA 715 is the installation standard for Fuel Gas Detection and Warning Equipment.

Installation Best Practices & Requirements in NFPA 715:

Follow the manufacturer’s installation, maintenance, and testing instructions precisely.
For a single natural gas appliance, install the detector 3-10 feet from the appliance. For a grouping of appliances, one detector is recommended for every 600 square feet of floor area but not more than 30 feet away from the appliance or grouping of appliances.
Ideally, install the detector on a wall, about 4-12 inches below the ceiling. Installing the detector less than 4 inches or on the ceiling is acceptable if a lower wall mount is not an option.
Don't install the detector near a window, vent, or ceiling fan, as drafts can prevent gas from reaching the sensor.
Avoid very humid areas, like a bathroom, or in dusty, dirty locations like a workshop.

Avoid False Alarms:

Don't install detectors closer than 3 feet from a natural gas appliance. It may sound counterintuitive, but these detectors alarm at such low levels that expected fumes from cooking and other appliances can cause a false alarm if installed too close.
Be mindful to keep household cleaning chemicals, solvents, paints, and aerosol sprays away from the detectors.

If you smell gas OR your natural gas detector alarm goes off, don’t wait:

NO FLAMES OR SPARKS. Quickly extinguish any open flames or smoking materials.
LEAVE IMMEDIATELY. Get everyone out of the building and warn others to stay away.
DON'T TOUCH. Any of these actions could create a spark and cause a potential ignition.
1. Do not operate light switches, appliances, or thermostats.
2. Do not use your telephone or cell phone inside the building.
3. Do not try to find the source of the leak yourself.
CALL FROM A SAFE LOCATION. Once you are a safe distance away from the building (at least 300 feet), call 911, then call Unitil's 24-Hour Emergency Line.
STAY AWAY. Until your natural gas provider or emergency responders determine it is safe, do not return to the building or area.
SYSTEM CHECK. Before using any of your natural gas appliances again, Unitil will check your entire system to ensure it is leak-free.

Always trust your nose. The odorant is a primary safety feature. If you smell the "rotten egg" scent of natural gas, follow these safety steps, even if the alarm is silent.

This is a crucial distinction. The three main detectors for home safety protect you from different dangers:

Smoke Detectors: Alert you to fire.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors: Alert you to the presence of CO, a toxic, odorless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels (including natural gas, wood, or gasoline). Learn more about carbon monoxide poisoning.
Methane (Natural Gas) Detectors: Specifically alert you to a natural gas leak from an appliance, pipe, or fitting.

For complete home safety, you need all three. Each one monitors for a unique and specific hazard.