Natural gas makes life easier—it powers our stoves, water heaters, and furnaces. But it also comes with risks. A small leak can turn into a serious health hazard or even cause a deadly explosion if it goes unnoticed.
According to a recent article by the San Francisco Chronicle, gas stoves can release benzene, a cancer-causing chemical, into the air—exposing families, especially children, to long-term health risks.
That’s why its important to get your home tested for natural gas leaks regularly. Whether you’re a homeowner, a renter, or a home inspector, a gas leak detector helps you act fast, stay safe, and prevent disasters.
9 Best Gas Detectors in 2025
Check this list of the best natural gas detectors recommended for homeowners and home inspectors.
Rank #1
Klein Tools ET120 Gas Leak Detector
- Specifications: This Combustible Gas Leak Tester comes with 18-inch Gooseneck, has Range 50 – 10,000 ppm, Includes Pouch, Batteries.
- Detect gas concentrations from approximately 50 to 10,000 ppm*
- Customer Ratings: 4.7/5 | Top Recommendation
- Price: $129
Rank #2
PT-830S Rechargeable Gas Leak Detector
- Specifications: This is a rechargeable gas leak detector that comes with a with 14.5 inch flexible probe. Range 0-10000 ppm, TFT Color Display & 3 Types Alarm, Natural Gas Leak Detector for Propane, Methane for Home or Industrial.
- Battery Time: 8 hours of battery life
- Customer Ratings: 4.6/5
- Price: $91
Rank #3
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector
- Specifications: This Natural Gas Detector is most recommended for homeowners, as it can detect Carbon Monoxide, Propane, Natural Gas, Methane, & Explosive Gas.
- Plug and play: Simply plug-in to a standard, 120V outlet in your home.
- Customer Ratings: 4.6/5
- Price: $60
Rank #4
PT760 Gas Leak Detector
- Specifications: Rechargeable Gas Leak Detector with 12-inch Telescopic Probe & PT520A Natural Gas Detector with 17-inch Flexible Gooseneck for Methane, Propane, LPG, Ideal for Home, RV.
- Battery Time: 8-9 hours per charge.
- Customer Ratings: 4.7/5
- Price: $71
Rank #5
PT520A Natural Gas Detector
- Specifications: Gas Leak Detector with 17-Inch Gooseneck, Locating The Source Like Propane, Methane, and Butane for Home and RV (Includes Battery x3).
- Detection range: 50-10,000 ppm (Methane). Detection distance: 1-5cm
- Customer Ratings: 4.6/5
- Price: $40
Rank #6
Gas Leak and Natural Gas Detector
- Specifications: Portable Gas Sniffer to Locate Leaks of Multiple Combustible Gases Like Propane, Methane, LPG, LNG, Fuel, Sewer Gas with 12″ Flexible Sensor Neck.
- 12-inch length sensor neck in any direction along gas pipes & fuel lines or within confined spaces.
- Customer Ratings: 4.6/5
- Price: $30
Rank #7
PT199 Natural Gas Leak Detector
- Specifications: 14.5 Inch Flexible Probe, Range 0-10000 ppm, TFT Color Display & 3 Types Alarm, Natural Gas Leak Detector for Propane, Methane for Home or Industrial.
- Features a 90dB buzzer, warning lights, and vibration alert.
- Customer Ratings: 4.5/5
- Price: $25
Rank #8
4-in-1 Multi Gas Detector
- Specifications: Multi Gas Detector for H2S, CO, LEL, and O2, Triple Alarm Modes (Visual, Vibration, Sound), 0.5s Fast Response, Dust and Explosion Proof Design for Work and Home Safety.
- 15 hours of battery life and includes a real-time battery indicator.
- Customer Ratings: 4.7/5
- Price: $105
Rank #9
Guard-101 Gas Detector
- Specifications: 4 Gas Monitor for H2S, CO, LEL and O2, with Vibration, Visual and Audible Alarms, 14h Long Battery Life, Safety Explosion-Proof, for Work and Home.
- Utilizes three alarm modes: LED light, vibration, and sound.
- Customer Ratings: 4.5/5
- Price: $100
Benefits of Having a Natural Gas Detector for the Home
- Gas detectors helps to protect your family from dangerous gas leaks.
- It alerts you while sleeping—even silent leaks trigger alarms.
- Helps to prevent fires and explosions by detecting gas early.
- Gas detectors that come with dual protection can also detect both carbon monoxide and natural gas.
- Having a natural gas detector in your home could help you save money by catching leaks before damage happens.
- Some detectors also offer remote alerts via smart detectors when you’re away.
- Most gas alarm detectors are DIY-friendly with simple plug-in or battery options.
- It is ideal for older homes or ageing gas appliances.
- Get peace of mind every day with this preventive tool, not just in emergencies.
Natural Gas Detector Statistics, Market Trends and Consumer Insights
The demand for safety tools like natural gas detectors for home is rising rapidly. From growing consumer awareness to shifting regulations and inspection standards, these devices are becoming household essentials.
After conducting thousands of surveys and analyzing data from over 55,000 home inspection reports, we’ve compiled key statistics, market trends, consumer demographics, and insights you need to know:-
7 out of 10 homes in U.S. rely on natural gas for heating, cooking, or appliances. But only 38% households currently use a natural gas detector for home safety.
According to our recent study, the home safety detector market (including smoke, CO, and gas detectors) is projected to grow at 8.5% CAGR by 2030, with natural gas detectors leading the growth due to rising safety regulations.
Smart natural gas detectors with mobile app integration now account for 18% of total detector sales, as homeowners prefer remote monitoring and real-time alerts.
41% of DIY buyers prefer using a battery-operated natural gas detector due to easy installation and portability, especially in rental properties or aging homes.
67% of natural gas detector purchases in the U.S. and Canada are made by homeowners, while 24% are bought by home inspectors and service professionals for regular field use.
According to our recent survey with 15,000+ home inspectors in U.S., they report a 34% increase in clients asking specifically about natural gas detectors during pre-sale or maintenance inspections compared to 3 years ago.
In last 2 years, over 60% of gas leaks detected in home occurred in kitchens or near old gas water heaters.
In 2025, only 23% of licensed home inspectors in the U.S. include portable gas testers or detectors as part of their standard inspection toolkit.
71% of gas leak incidents could have been prevented or mitigated by early detection. Which indicates the importance of having natural gas detector alarms in homes with gas appliances.
Our research also shows that, nearly 48% of older homes built before 1990 show signs of gas leak risks during routine inspections.
The average cost of a natural gas leak repair ranges from $300 to $1,200, while a basic natural gas detector home unit starts as low as $25.
Dual-function detectors (carbon monoxide and natural gas) now account for 63% of all detector sales in North America.
Over 4,200 emergency fire incidents in U.S. are caused by natural gas leaks every year. Many of which could have been prevented with proper inspection and mitigation. [Source]
How to Choose the Best Natural Gas Detector Alarm
There are several factors to consider before selecting the best natural gas detector for your home. Here are some basic requirements you must consider while buying a gas detector unit:-
| Minimum Requirements | Recommended Requirements |
|---|---|
| Detects methane (CH4) | Detects methane + propane + carbon monoxide (CO) |
| Loud alarm ≥ 85 dB | Alarm with voice alert + LED indicator |
| UL 1484 or equivalent certification | UL 1484 + additional safety certifications |
| Plug-in or hardwired | Plug-in with battery backup or battery-operated for mobility |
| No display or basic LED warning | Digital display with real-time gas concentration levels |
| Manual reset/test button | Smart home integration (Wi-Fi alerts, app control) |
| Indoor use, single room coverage | Multi-room or whole-home system compatibility |
Where is the Best Place to Put a Natural Gas Detector?
Always place your natural gas detectors in areas where gas leaks are most likely to occur in your home:
- Kitchen- Near gas stoves and ovens.
- Basement- Close to gas furnaces or water heaters.
- Laundry Room- If you have a gas dryer.
- Ensure detectors are installed 4 to 12 inches below the ceiling, as natural gas rises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions related to the usability of natural gas detectors:-
Q1
Does a Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector Detect Natural Gas Leaks?
No, a carbon monoxide detector natural gas does not detect natural gas leaks. CO detectors are designed to sense carbon monoxide, a byproduct of incomplete combustion, not natural gas. You can get a carbon monoxide and natural gas detector which can detect both gases.
Q2
What is the Best Natural Gas Detector in the Home?
TOPTES is one of the best brands which has great range of gas detectors and are the best selling natural gas detectors in the U.S market.
Q3
What Detector Do I Need for Natural Gas?
For detecting natural gas, choose a gas leak detector that specifically senses methane, the primary component of natural gas. Also, ensure the gas detector is certified and suitable for residential use.
Q4
What is the Best Height to Place a Natural Gas Detector?
Since natural gas is lighter than air, it accumulates near the ceiling. Install your natural gas detector alarm 4 to 12 inches below the ceiling to ensure optimal detection.
Q5
Should Natural Gas Detectors Be on the Floor or Ceiling?
Natural gas detectors should be mounted high on the wall, close to the ceiling, as natural gas rises. Avoid placing them on the floor, which is more suitable for detecting heavier gases like propane.
Q6
What is the Difference Between a Gas Tester and a Gas Detector?
A gas detector continuously monitors the air and alerts you when gas concentrations reach dangerous levels. Whereas a gas tester is typically a handheld device used for spot-checking specific areas for gas presence.
Q7
What Kind of Alarm Do I Need for Natural Gas?
For natural gas detection, choose a natural gas leak detector for home that:
- Specifically detects methane.
- Has audible and visual alarms.
- Is certified to UL 1484 standards.
- Offers features like battery backup or smart connectivity, depending on your preferences.
