Frequent gas detector alarms may be due to multiple factors, including device malfunction, environmental interference, and improper parameter settings. The following details the specific causes and corresponding solutions.
Core Causes of Continuous Gas Detector Alarms
Excessive combustible gas concentrations: When a detector detects combustible gases such as methane and propane, and the concentration reaches the preset alarm threshold (usually divided into low and high levels), it will continuously sound an alarm, indicating the presence of an explosion or combustion hazard.
Toxic gas leaks: If a detector detects toxic gases such as hydrogen sulfide and carbon monoxide, an alarm will be triggered when the gas concentration exceeds the critical value that is harmful to humans, alerting personnel to the risk of poisoning.
Sensor failure: As the core component of a detector, if the sensor experiences performance abnormalities due to long-term use, chemical corrosion, or physical damage, it will output erroneous concentration signals, triggering unwarranted alarms.
Overdue or inaccurate calibration: Gas detectors require regular calibration with standard gases. Failure to do so or improper calibration can lead to decreased detection accuracy, resulting in “missing” or “continuous false alarms.”
Severe fluctuations in temperature and humidity: Excessively high temperatures (such as near heat sources), extremely low temperatures (such as in cold workshops), or high humidity (such as in humid warehouses) can reduce sensor activity and cause moisture in the circuitry, leading to false alarms.
Electromagnetic or physical interference: Strong electromagnetic fields (such as those found in large motors or high-voltage lines) nearby can interfere with the detector’s signal transmission. Furthermore, dust or oil blocking the sensor’s air inlet can distort detection data and trigger alarms.
Setting the low-alarm threshold too low: For example, if the low-alarm threshold for combustible gas is set far below the national standard, the detector will frequently alarm even if only trace amounts of gas remain in the environment.
Setting the high-alarm threshold too high: While this won’t result in false alarms, it can create safety risks—gas concentrations reaching dangerous levels may not trigger an alarm. Improper threshold settings can also cause device alarm logic malfunctions.
After long-term use, the natural wear and tear of equipment components can affect overall performance:
Aging internal components: For example, oxidation of circuit boards or loose terminals can lead to unstable power supply or signal transmission interruptions, triggering a “fault alarm.”
Sensor lifespan expiration: Most gas sensors have a fixed lifespan. After exceeding this lifespan, their sensitivity decreases significantly, making them prone to false alarms or persistent alarms.
Connection failure: If the connection between the detector and the controller is short-circuited, broken, or poorly connected, the controller will be unable to properly receive the detector signal, deeming it a “device malfunction” and issuing an alarm.
Operational error: If you mistakenly enter “Test Mode” without exiting it promptly, or if you fail to properly start the device according to the manual (for example, if you fail to wait for the warm-up period after starting the device), the device may mistakenly detect an abnormal state and continue to alarm.
Troubleshooting Continuous Gas Detector Alarms
When a gas detector continuously alarms, follow the principle of “first troubleshoot safety risks, then resolve equipment issues”:
The first step is to determine whether there is a real safety hazard.
If the detector detects flammable/toxic gases, immediately have personnel wear protective equipment (such as gas masks and combustible gas leak detectors) and inspect the detection area for leaks, including pipes, valves, and connections.
If a leak is confirmed, immediately cease operations in the area, close the main gas valve, open doors and windows, or activate the exhaust system. Once the gas concentration drops to a safe level, the detector will automatically stop alarming.
After eliminating the risk of a leak, perform a preliminary inspection of the device:
Check the detector surface for dust or oil blocking the air inlet. If so, gently clean it with a clean, soft cloth or compressed air (be careful not to damage the sensor).
Check the device’s power supply (for battery-powered devices, check the battery level; for wiring devices, confirm that the connections are secure). If the power supply is unstable, replace the battery or repair the wiring immediately.
Take targeted measures for environmental factors:
If the ambient temperature and humidity are too high, install a heat shield, dust cover, or dehumidification device (such as a desiccant) around the detector to protect it from direct exposure to harsh environments.
If electromagnetic interference is present, move the detector away from interference sources such as high-voltage equipment and motors, or install an electromagnetic shielding cover to reduce signal interference.
If none of the above steps work, further inspect the device hardware:
Open the detector casing (power off; caution is advised for non-professionals) and inspect the circuit board for signs of corrosion or burns, and for loose sensor wiring.
If a sensor is confirmed to be faulty or expired, replace it with a sensor of the same model and specifications and recalibrate it. If the circuit board is faulty, try replacing it with a spare circuit board that matches the device model.
If your own troubleshooting still fails to resolve the issue, or if you are unsure of the cause of the problem, do not disassemble the device without authorization:
Contact the detector manufacturer’s after-sales department and provide information such as the device model, age, and alarm status for remote guidance.
If the device is still under warranty, you can request an on-site repair from the manufacturer.
