Bad Propane Detector?

Sammie · 05-18-2013, 09:54 AM

Can propane detectors go bad and go into an alarm condition when there is no problem? Mine started to sound an alarm this morning for no aparent reason and after silencing it would go back into alarm after just a few minutes. I've disconnected it for now and will reconnect it and try it later. I did have the furnace onand running when it went off so I'm wondering if that may have caused the alarm.

Thanks,
Sammie

Doggy Daddy · 05-18-2013, 12:08 PM

LP detectors have an expiration date? It’s true; Each detector is stamped with a date letting you know when the unit expires, usually about five years. Even if the detector is still operating at the time of expiration, it needs to be replaced. Also, make sure to test your detectors regularly and replace the batteries annually as needed.
PHOTO: Smoke and LP Detectors Life Span - Better RVing

garykk · 05-18-2013, 12:14 PM

My brother-inlaws MH had a bad detector and when it went off , the propane was shut off as well...

sgtjoe · 05-18-2013, 12:16 PM

Just a thought, but do you have any pets?? They can set them off.

Skip426 · 05-18-2013, 12:24 PM

They have a due date + can be set off by hair spray, bacon cooking ,internal cob webs , etc etc.

Jim_HiTek · 05-18-2013, 12:46 PM

And of course, you might have a LP leak going on. For one thing, check that the stove's pilot (if you have one) hasn't gone out and make sure you haven't bumped one of the stoves controls On, like the oven.

And another thing. Over time, the sensor can accumulate dusty junk in it. Vacuum the little grill on the front of the detector to clean it out.

garykk · 05-18-2013, 05:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sgtjoe

Just a thought, but do you have any pets?? They can set them off.

Yup.....witnessed that myself with our Lab..

jesilvas · 05-18-2013, 05:42 PM

One of three things are happening:
LP leak.
Bad detector.
Low 12V power.

336muffin · 05-18-2013, 05:53 PM

If you get 6-8 years you are due for a new one. I strongly suggest you do. Ours saved our life once!

Sammie · 05-18-2013, 06:14 PM

Thanks to all for your ideas and input. I think I will try blowing out the detector with some air tomorrow morning and then probably buy a new replacement when I return home from my trip. The detector is 7 years old, so I guess it's time for a new one.

Thanks,
Sammie

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