7 best gas analyzers

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The combustion of natural gas and other fuels contributes to the release of respiratory waste that is difficult to detect by the human sense of smell. Gas supply lines to a meter or stove may become leaky due to a cracked hose or loose fitting. To find leaks, gas sensors are used that recognize the composition of the air mixture. They are used to adjust heating boilers, gas water heaters, check flanges and squeegees. The efficiency of other equipment and human life depend on the sensitivity and quality of the device, therefore it is important to choose the right leak detector. Our roundup of the best gas analyzers and expert advice on choosing will help with this.

How to choose a gas analyzer

Having decided to buy a gas analyzer, pay attention to the key parameters described in the characteristics of the device:

1. Fuel type and target gas. It depends on where and for what tasks the device can be used. When burning the simplest fuels, such as natural gas or diesel fuel, a simple gas analyzer designed to capture residual carbon monoxide (CO остат) is sufficient. When it is important not only to find the leakage of a harmful stream, but also to assess the overall environmental friendliness of the exhaust, models that can determine nitrogen oxide (NO₂) are used. If fuel oil is used as fuel, you will need a device that is also sensitive to sulfur dioxide (SO₂). To work with solid fuels, gas analyzers are used, the sensors of which are protected from elevated temperature and dust. When looking for a leak of unburned gases, they choose devices with a sensitivity to methane (CH₄) or propane (C₃H₈).
2. Measurement range and sensitivity. The optimal range for the recognition of CO распозна residues is 0-10000 ppm. But the sensitivity of leak detectors is different – some devices detect any values ​​above 0, while others only from 100 ppm. The lower the threshold, the better.
3. Interface. This is another important parameter that affects the usability of the gas analyzer. Some models have only a color diode circuit, where each color represents a certain level of harmful gases. Others have a digitally labeled display or a variable scale height for more accurate results.
4. Response time. It will take time for the device to analyze the composition of the gas and give out the presence of harmful components. The interval can be from 2 to 60 seconds. When there are many measurements to be taken, choose a faster gas analyzer.
5. Dimensions and weight. Portable devices are more convenient to carry with you when they are compact and lightweight. The sizes of leak detectors can be from 50x20x100 mm to 70x40x200 mm, and the weight varies from 100 to 500 g.
6. Battery capacity. The gas sensor can be powered by a rechargeable battery or batteries, which will last for 3-10 hours of continuous operation. The longer the time, the less often you have to interrupt to recharge or change the batteries.
7. Acceptable working conditions. Some readers can only be used at temperatures from +4 degrees. Others retain the correct operation of the sensors at negative values ​​up to -10 ° C. If samples have to be taken in unheated rooms (attics, basements, etc.), choose the second option.

Gas analyzers are mobile and stationary. Our TOP-7 contains just such categories.

Rating of the best gas analyzers

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Review of the best portable gas analyzers	1	Testo 316-1	RUB 19,000
	2	MEGEON 08002 k0000017420	12 329 RUB
	3	Testo 317-2	RUB 12,000
	4	MEGEON 08005	RUB 9,115
	5	Mastech MS6310 65299	RUB 4 490
The best stationary gas analyzers	1	CEM DT-802 481769	9 7000 rub.
	2	BG 2202 Brennenstuhl 1290460	RUB 1,999

Review of the best portable gas analyzers

Now that you know the basic parameters for choosing a gas analyzer, let's move on to the list of the best models. First, we will consider portable devices that are convenient to carry with you to take air samples in apartments or near gas equipment in enterprises. Experts have selected these products by examining their characteristics and reviews.

Testo 316-1

Rating: 4.9

In the first place is a gas analyzer from the Testo brand, which has a rectangular case with dimensions of 190x57x42 mm and is complemented by a flexible probe. The product is approved by the DVGW standard. The device is powered by a removable Varta battery, not a rechargeable type. The lower threshold of the response is at 100 ppm. The gas analyzer has no screen, and the interface consists of two indicators. If it lights up yellow, then the CO₂ concentration does not exceed 200 ppm. When red, it indicates an unwanted gas leak of 1000 ppm. The sensor can be operated at a temperature of + 4 … + 45 degrees. The battery lasts for 5 hours of autonomy.

In our opinion, the gas analyzer is the best in terms of response speed. The first time it is turned on, it will take 30 seconds to warm up, after which the gas analysis time value takes 5 seconds. This is how much time will pass before the device informs about the leak. If you need to take samples from multiple locations on site, you can get the job done faster with this item.

Advantages

• durable body that does not break when dropped;
• comfortable flexible probe;
• autonomy up to 5 hours;
• weighs 300 g.

disadvantages

• no display – data on the concentration of СО₂ gas can only be obtained approximately (it can be 2000 or 8000 ppm);
• high price;
• relatively large building;
• works only in the positive temperature range.

MEGEON 08002 k0000017420

Rating: 4.8

In second place are goods from the domestic brand “MEGEON”. The gas analyzer has dimensions of 158x65x30 mm and weighs 276 g. The measurement range is 0-10000 ppm. The device is powered by a built-in 1.0 A / h battery, which will last for 10 hours of operation. The model has a flexible probe, 360 mm long, which makes it easier to feed the sensor into hard-to-reach places. In case of insufficient light, the display backlight turns on. If the gas standards are exceeded, the sound and light alarm is triggered. The response time after warm-up is 10 s. Customers in reviews love the compact, padded case that comes with the product. This facilitates its frequent transportation and safe storage.

We found the gas analyzer to be the best in terms of price-performance ratio. Despite the assembly of the product in China, it uses an imported sensor from a European manufacturer, which ensures accurate determination of the gas composition. Customer reviews confirm the reliability of the operation, and it is even said that this equipment helped to find several large leaks and prevent an accident.

Advantages

• sound alert about exceeding concentration;
• large screen with digital signage;
• included battery and power adapter;
• there is a backlight;
• long service life without breakdowns.

disadvantages

• the sensor tip is made of plastic and can melt if brought to the heated elements of the exhaust system;
• short charging wire.

Testo 317-2

Rating: 4.7

And here is another mobile gas analyzer from Testo, which is capable of operating at temperature conditions of -5 … + 45 degrees and detecting propane or methane leaks. Customers in reviews love the ease of control with just one button. Pressing it starts the device, after which the sample is automatically analyzed and the result is displayed. The data is displayed on the LCD as an ascending bar. The higher it is, the greater the concentration of СО₂ in the air. The sensor is compact and weighs 170 g. The product is delivered in a case, so it is convenient to transport it so as not to damage the screen. There is a loop on the body for threading a cord so that the gas analyzer stays on the wrist when you need to quickly free your hands.

The model is notable for a measurement range from 0 to 20,000 ppm, while most others have an upper value less than 10,000 ppm. This will help not only to find the place of the leak, but also to determine the amount of losses in order to find out which section of the pipeline needs to be repaired first.

Advantages

• simple control;
• loop and lace included;
• there is a storage case;
• can work at negative temperatures up to -5 degrees.

disadvantages

• batteries last for 4 hours;
• the lower threshold is from 50 ppm;
• no numerical designation of the result.

MEGEON 08005

Rating: 4.6

This gas analyzer from a domestic brand is very similar to a mobile phone. It fits easily in your hand and has a large display. The screen displays the amount of СО₂ and the air temperature. The control is carried out by three buttons, so it is not difficult to deal with the device. The device is powered by two 1.5 V batteries. Its operation is permitted at an ambient temperature of 0 … + 50 ° C. The measurement range is 0 … 1000 ppm. In a dark room, you can turn on the backlight. But the response time here is not the fastest and reaches 60 s. In the reviews, buyers praise the accuracy of the device and its sensitivity to even small gas leaks. Of the shortcomings, a loud squeak is noted, which is unpleasant to the ear.

Our experts have rated the gas analyzer as the best in terms of mobility. It is the smallest and lightest device on the market. Its dimensions are 55x29x135 mm, and it weighs only 100 g. If you need to regularly carry the leak detector with you, then think about purchasing this option.

Advantages

• battery charge indicator;
• shows the current air temperature;
• comfortable to hold;
• bright display backlight.

disadvantages

• response time is 60 seconds;
• can only be used at positive temperatures;
• unpleasant alarm sound;
• the measuring range is limited to 1000 ppm.

Mastech MS6310 65299

Rating: 4.5

Completing the category of portable gas analyzers is a product from the Chinese brand Mastech. This is a quality machine, assembled in the factory and complying with ISO quality standards. The leak detector has one button for turning on, as well as a volume control for the audible alarm. The dimensions of the case are 172x70x64 mm, and it weighs 330 g. Above, there is a flexible probe mount 385 mm long, which facilitates access to narrow places. The response threshold starts at 50 ppm. It will be possible to operate the gas analyzer only at a positive ambient temperature. For power, you will need 4 batteries of 1.5 V each, but this charge will last for 9 hours of autonomy, which the owners like in the reviews. The goods are delivered in a bag that solves the issue of storage and transportation.

This gas analyzer is the best in terms of price and speed of response. Despite the budget class of the product, the model is capable of performing calculations in 2 seconds. True, to return to the original starting value, you will need to keep it in clean air for about 7 minutes.

Advantages

• sturdy case, resistant to cracking when dropped;
• batteries last for 9 hours of autonomous work;
• simple control;
• long flexible probe 385 mm.

disadvantages

• no display;
• sensitivity starts from 50 ppm;
• return to its original state 7-10 minutes;
• reaches the readiness level in 2 minutes.

The best stationary gas analyzers

Stationary gas analyzers are optimal for installation next to a boiler or a gas water heater in a boiler room of a private house. They are also used in public places (schools, hospitals, offices and classrooms) to obtain data on air quality and regulate ventilation, as well as the operation of the ventilation system. The acceptable threshold for quality air is 800 ppm. Above this number, the composition is considered satisfactory or hazardous.

CEM DT-802 481769

Rating: 4.9

This model is designed to detect carbon dioxide in the air. It has a rectangular body designed to be mounted on a wall. There is a hole at the back for fixing on a self-tapping screw. The device has a sensitivity ranging from 0 to 9999 ppm. It can be operated at temperatures from -5 to +50 degrees. In the dark, readings are easy to see thanks to the bright backlight. The gas sensor works correctly with an air humidity of 1 to 90%. Leak trap error does not exceed 5%. The stylish design allows the product to be used in public places and offices.

Wall mounted gas analyzer has the best response time of 2 seconds. As soon as CO₂ enters the room, the device will immediately notify with an audible alarm. The sensor is also convenient for direct connection to the power supply, so it can be kept on around the clock. The presence of a clock on a large screen is liked by buyers in reviews and expands the functionality of the device.

Advantages

• large display, the readings of which are visible from a distance of 2-3 m;
• 24/7 operation allowed;
• works correctly at a negative temperature of -5 degrees;
• there is a screen backlight.

disadvantages

• for stationary use only;
• no battery – only mains supply.

BG 2202 Brennenstuhl 1290460

Rating: 4.8

The second product worthy of a place in the review of the best is BG 2202 Brennenstuhl. The gas analyzer from the German brand refers to ceiling-type models and is installed above kitchen stoves or in a boiler room. It can be used in a private house, country house or apartment. The device is connected to a 220 V network and continuously scans the indoor air quality. When the leak detector detects an increased concentration of carbon dioxide, an audible alarm is triggered. A red diode on the case lights up, which does not go out until the siren is turned off on the remote control. This helps to quickly localize the leak in a spacious building, where there can be 10-20 such ceiling sensors.

We considered the gas analyzer to be the best in terms of sound alert volume. If the sensor is located on the first floor of a building, 100 m long, then when triggered, it will be heard on the second floor at the opposite end. This characteristic can save lives and the product is relevant for use in sanatoriums, hotels and other places where a large number of people stay.

Advantages

• affordable price;
• easy fixing to the ceiling;
• everything you need for fixing is already included;
• light indication of control.

disadvantages

• works only at a dangerous concentration of 40%;
• if the electricity is turned off in the house, the detector is inactive.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.