Do Carbon Monoxide Detectors Detect Gas

Carbon monoxide detectors and gas detectors serve different but equally important safety functions in the home. While both relate to gases that can pose risks to health and safety, they are designed to detect distinct substances. Understanding what carbon monoxide detectors can and cannot detect is essential for homeowners, landlords and anyone responsible for maintaining a safe living environment.

What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless, colourless and tasteless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels such as gas, oil, coal and wood. It is highly toxic and can be fatal if inhaled in sufficient quantities. CO is often called the “silent killer” because it cannot be detected by human senses. Faulty or poorly maintained gas appliances, blocked flues or inadequate ventilation can lead to the build-up of carbon monoxide inside a property, making CO detectors critical for early warning and protection.

How Carbon Monoxide Detectors Work

Carbon monoxide detectors use sensors that are specifically designed to detect the presence of CO gas in the air. When CO levels rise to a dangerous threshold, the detector emits a loud alarm to alert occupants to evacuate and seek help. These detectors are calibrated to respond only to carbon monoxide molecules, meaning they do not respond to other gases, including natural gas or LPG.

It is important to place CO detectors near sleeping areas and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances to ensure early detection. Regular testing and battery replacement are essential to keep the detectors functioning properly.

Why Carbon Monoxide Detectors Do Not Detect Gas Leaks

Natural gas and LPG used in homes primarily consist of methane, propane or butane, which are highly flammable but not toxic like carbon monoxide. These gases are odourless in their natural state but are intentionally mixed with odorous compounds such as mercaptan to produce a strong, distinctive smell. This odour is the primary safety feature that alerts occupants to a gas leak.

Carbon monoxide detectors do not detect methane or other fuel gases because their sensors are not sensitive to these molecules. Detecting natural gas or LPG requires a separate type of gas detector designed specifically for combustible gases. These gas detectors often use different sensor technologies, such as catalytic bead or infrared sensors, and may have visual or audible alarms tailored to gas leaks.

The Importance of Having Both Types of Detectors

For comprehensive safety, homes with gas appliances should have both carbon monoxide detectors and gas leak detectors installed. Carbon monoxide detectors protect against the build-up of toxic CO gas, which can result from appliance malfunction or blocked ventilation. Gas detectors alert occupants to the presence of a flammable gas leak, allowing evacuation and corrective action before a fire or explosion risk develops.

Both detectors play complementary roles and should be installed according to manufacturers’ guidance and relevant building regulations or safety standards. Ensuring the right devices are in place and maintained properly can save lives and prevent property damage.

What To Do If You Detect a Gas Leak or Carbon Monoxide

If your carbon monoxide detector alarms, immediately ventilate the property by opening windows and doors, turn off fuel-burning appliances if safe to do so, and leave the premises. Contact the emergency services or a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer for inspection and repair before re-entry.

If you smell gas or have a gas detector alarm, do not operate electrical switches or use naked flames. Evacuate the property and call the National Gas Emergency Service from a safe location. Prompt action in either scenario is essential for safety.

Final Thoughts

Carbon monoxide detectors do not detect natural gas or LPG leaks because they are designed specifically to sense the toxic carbon monoxide gas. For full gas safety in the home, both carbon monoxide and gas detectors should be installed and maintained. Understanding the difference between these detectors helps ensure proper protection against the various risks associated with gas appliances and fuel combustion in UK homes.