Natural gas detectors may not be as high on the list of must-have items for your home like a fire alarm or a smoke detector, but they are incredibly important in case of an odorless and potentially dangerous gas leak. Public utilities add a chemical to the gas that gives it a distinctive “rotten egg” smell, which can help identify problems ranging from an appliance’s pilot light going out to a serious leak caused by a crack in the line.

A natural gas leak detection device is designed to go off before dangerous levels of methane are built up. Unlike carbon monoxide detectors, these devices are specifically designed to detect natural gas and can distinguish it from other toxins, such as combustible and volatile organic compounds.

Protect Your Family: The Importance of a Natural Gas Detector

Some models are portable while others are stationary and fixed to the ceiling of a building, office or shop. Regardless of their design, they use advanced sensors to monitor air and sound an alarm when harmful gases or fumes are detected. They can also pick up multiple toxins at once.

Look for the UL label on your Natural Gas Detector to ensure it meets Underwriter Laboratories’ standards for safety and reliability. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for information on how to test the device and how long it will function before requiring replacement. You can also look for a model that can integrate with your smart home system to help you keep tabs on the detector while you’re away from your house.