Propane Detectors – Single And Multi Gas Monitors

There are detectors solely dedicated to propane and natural gas detection. However, any combustible gas detector can detect propane gas leaks. Combustible gas detectors are also used to detect butane, natural gas, hydrocarbons and some solvents.

Propane gas is a fuel source for many homes and buildings where natural gas isn’t available. It is used for cooking, space heating and water heating. Although it is the least combustible among other gases, propane leaks can still be potentially dangerous and must not be overlooked. Because minor leaks can easily go unnoticed, a propane detector is usually recommended.

If you use propane gas for cooking and grilling, you must invest in a reliable gas leak detector. The device monitors specific concentrations of propane gas within your home and alerts you before it takes a toll on your health. Find more about the best propane gas leak detectors and how they work in the guide below.

What Is Propane?

Propane, often referred to as liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas), is a hydrocarbon (C₃H₈). It is made either by refining crude oil or from processing natural gas. Around 97% of the propane gas consumed in the US is produced in North America.

The colorless and odorless gas is typically used in more rural areas where people cannot access natural gas. Homeowners use it in a large range of appliances, including water heaters, ovens, pool heaters, furnaces, space heaters, cloth dryers etc.

People also use it as fuel in fleet vehicles, cars, and buses. Although, it is termed Autogas when used as fuel in vehicles. Nationally, the propane is used in 50 million US homes, and over 11.9 million homes rely on propane for water and space heating.

However, as with other gases, you may encounter a propane leak in your home. For example, if your space heater, propane grill, or fit pit gives off a weaker flame, it may signify a propane leak.

A leak may also be the culprit if your propane concentration goes down faster than usual.

Plus, a pungent, rotten egg-like odor in your home also indicates a propane leak. Manufacturers intentionally add an unpleasant odor to propane gas as a safety hazard.

Nonetheless, because natural gas, mold, bleach, and hydrogen sulfide also often smell like rotten eggs, telling propane gas apart from them can be challenging. Here’s when propane gas detectors can help.

What Kind of Detector do You Need for Propane?

The key to detecting a propane leak is the same for other combustible gases. A combustible gas leak detector measures the amount of combustible, explosive or flammable gases – often using infrared sensors.

The sensor monitors propane gas concentrations and emits an audible alarm to alert you of the leak.

In the event of a gas leak, ensure you:

• Turn off the cylinder valve and call your local fire department
• Put out all the open flames and avoid operating lights and other electrical appliances, as sparks from these sources can ignite a flame.
• Avoid using your grill unless a professional has fixed the problem
• Open the doors and windows and evacuate immediately

Best Propane Detectors

The best propane detector is a durable model with a high quality built-in, powerful sensor. The more sensitive the sensor, the better it will perform at detecting the gas and alerting you.

You can choose a model to mount on your home wall or place on a shelf. Detectors can be hard wired but you can also consider opting for a portable propane detector. The compact size of a portable detector allows hassle-free handling and lets you change its place as you see fit.

For instance, if you only use propane gas while cooking in the kitchen, you can install the detector there. Likewise, if you have space heaters in your living room, you can switch the detector’s place by bringing it to your living space.

We’ve put together a list of some of the best propane gas detectors to help you find the right fit for your home.

Kidde Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide & Propane Gas Detector

The Kidde Nighthawk CO and propane gas detector take functionality to the next level by offering three installation options. You can mount it on an AC wall outlet, plug it in a 6-foot power cord, or place it on a table.

As soon as the device detects propane gas on your property, it’ll alert you by emitting an audible alarm. However, note that the alarm won’t ring consistently but rather go on and off every second – like typical emergency alarms.  Plus, you’ll see the word “GAS” on the digital display.

So, the device uses both visual and auditory effects to alert you about flammable gases.

The package comes with a 9-volt battery that offers significant power to let the device function optimally. However, you’ll know once the battery goes down.

The detector has a low battery warning feature indicating that the battery requires replacement. This feature is a plus because the device won’t compromise its performance.

Otherwise, some detector batteries often go bad without you even knowing. This keeps them from detecting the gas, posing a risk to your well-being. Fortunately, that’s not the case with the Kidde Nighthawk gas detector.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has also tested the detector for safety standards. On a side note, it’s also a CO detector. So, you get a 2-in-1 package.

UEi Test CD100A Gas Detector

The UEi CD100A Gas Detector can detect butane, ammonia, methane, natural gas, and propane. As soon as you suspect a gas leak, you can turn on the device to confirm.

Simply push the side button to start the device and let it warm for a few seconds. Then, point the detector’s gooseneck towards the area you assume has a gas leak.

The device will show visual and audio cues soon after detecting the gas. It works just right for residential and commercial environments due to its built-in quality.

Another perk of the device is its effectiveness in tight spaces. Because the gas takes time to spread around your property, you can eradicate it by detecting the source timely. However, that might not be possible if the gas leaks from a confined space because it can be challenging to insert the detector in a limited space.

Fortunately, the flexible gooseneck of the UEi gas detector allows you to insert it in all hard-to-reach areas. Besides, the light on the gooseneck’s tip illuminates to alert about a gas leak in a dark place.

So while the traditional soap method might help detect a gas leak, nothing replaces the robust technology of UEi CD100A Gas Detector. It offers an efficient and quick way to detect propane leaks and eliminate the source before it wreaks havoc on your health.

RIDGID Micro CD-100 Combustible Gas Detector

The RIGID Micro CD-100 Gas Detector offers a quick and easy way to identify a propane gas leak. It features adjustable sensitivity, allowing you to detect even low gas levels within seconds. So, you can use the device and get rid of the source before the gas leaches throughout your property.

A few appliances like space heaters, grills, and ovens may leak gas because they need minor repairs. You can detect leaks timely and repair your machines before they go bad.

The Tri-Mode Detection is another noticeable feature of the device. It provides audible, visual, and vibration alerts to inform you about combustible gas leaks. You can switch between the detection modes based on your preferences or the environment you reside in.

It also includes a 16” flexible probe that fits well in a tight space. You can insert the probe in a suspected area and turn on the device to discover the leaks.

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that probe gas detectors perform relatively well at determining the gas leak culprit, helping the owners eliminate the precise source. 

You can get the RIGID CD-100 Gas Detector on Amazon or on HomeDepot.

Forensics Gas Leak Detector

The Forensics Gas Leak Detector features a premium Japanese FIGARO gas sensor that is powerful enough to detect minor to significant gas leaks. It includes an advanced microprocessor, a high-resolution display, and several detectors.

For instance, the device alerts you through sound, light, and vibration. You can use the Forensics gas detector to find the sources of ammonia, butane, ethanol, acetone, hexane, LPG, and tons of other combustible gases. Professional inspectors also use this device to detect gas leaks in homes and commercial buildings. This speaks volumes about its robustness and efficient performance.

To maximize utility, you can also purchase a gas detector waterproof case or detector stand. However, note that these accessories are sold separately, so you’d need to pay to buy them.

Finally, the 11 oz weight of the device offers a hassle-free operation and lets you carry the device anywhere without trouble.

Triplett Combustible Gas Detector

Triplett Combustible Gas Detector performs well at detecting propane gas from 500 to 6500 ppm. The detector quickly checks for leaks, whether there’s a leak from a camping cartridge, space heater, grill, or small liquid gas containers like lighters or soldering irons.

The device provides visual and audible alerts to inform you about gas leaks and help you take action immediately.

The compact size of the Triplett gas detector is one of the most underrated features of the device. You can easily slip it into your pocket and keep it with you when traveling or visiting camping sites. It also features a protective cap and a clip to hold the device on the go.

Plus, it is even easier to carry because of its lightweight (1.6 oz). The brand also gives a year of warranty. So, you can contact the manufacturer if the device fails when in warranty. The brand might offer a replacement or get the device checked for defects for free. You can always read the warranty terms and conditions to know what the company offers.

Overall, the detector is ideal for frequent travelers and campers, given its portability and lightweight.

What Are the Symptoms Associated With Propane Inhalation?

Propane exposure symptoms largely depend on the nature of exposure. For instance, if you inhale the gas, the symptoms are actually the result of oxygen deprivation. You may experience:

• Dizziness
• Coughing
• Drowsiness
• Difficulty breathing
• Headache

However, acute exposure can lead to:

• Diarrhea
• Loss of consciousness
• Pain in limbs
• Heart failure
• Convulsions

Medicine Plus recommends calling 911 or the Poison Help hotline anywhere in the US immediately after Propane gas exposure.

FAQ

Does Propane Set off Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors only detect CO, not propane. A propane or combustible gas detector is required.

A few people assume that CO detectors might also detect propane. However, that’s not the case. Detectors designed to sense CO will only alert you to the presence of carbon monoxide gas.

You need a propane or combustible gas detector to know about propane leaks on your property. Note that a few combustible gas detectors also detect CO. However, those named “CO detectors” only detect carbon monoxide.

On a side note, always read the product manual to know which gases it can detect. It will keep you from buying an incompatible product.

Where Should I Place My Propane Detector?

Ideally, place a propane detector near the propane gas sources, including water heaters, grills, stoves, backup generators, dryers, fireplaces, and ovens.

This means you should place the detector in your kitchen or yard when grilling outdoors. You can also carry it to camping sites or anywhere you’ll bring propane gas appliances.

Is a Propane Gas Detector the Same as a Carbon Monoxide Detector?

No, a propane gas detector is not the same as a carbon monoxide detector because the latter only detects CO, and the former detects propane gas.

Manufacturers have designed dedicated detectors to alert homeowners only about carbon monoxide – the silent killer. Therefore, investing in a CO detector is best if you want to purchase a detector for carbon monoxide leaks.

Note that CO is a flammable gas. As such, a few combustible gas detectors also alert you about CO leaks. However, if you only aim to detect CO on your property, it’s best buy a CO detector, not a combustible gas detector.