Leak detectors, also referred to as Sniffers, are the Bloodhounds of gas detection! These handheld probes can detect low levels of combustible gases and are a perfect tool for locating small gas leaks.

Sniffers can be used as a safety check for potential gas leaks from piping and appliances and in environments where equipment is being installed, tested, or repaired. They are ideal for maintenance operations for gas leak checks or when gas network purges and tests are being conducted. They are also great tools for odor investigations.

Most portable gas monitors detect flammables in the Lower Explosive Range or LEL. The LEL will let you know if the gas is going to explode or catch fire. The biggest issue with LEL sensors is the fact that they do not read low levels of gas. You can smell the gas (usually the odorant) and even hear the gas leaking, but in many cases the LEL gas monitors display zero. This is because there is not enough gas for the gas monitor to detect. You are probably safe from an explosion, but you still have a gas leak that needs to be fixed.

Thus, the Sniffer. It is basically a LEL sensor on steroids and is designed to detect low levels of gas and will allow you to pinpoint a leak. They display in PPM (Parts per Million) and have audible and visual lights/alarms. They also incorporate a “Geiger” counter sound that ticks faster as the gas levels increase.

These are perfect tools for maintenance personnel, plumbers, and fire departments.