Combustion Safety Tools

Carbon Monoxide Detector: ($150- $800) Mechanical testers use a glass tube that is sensitive to various levels of CO. Each tube costs $2 and can be used 2-3 times in one day. Getting accurate flue samples is difficult with the tube system. Mechanical systems provide a digital readout of the CO levels and are relatively reliable. They need to be calibrated once a year and have a replaceable CO sensor.

Draft Gauge: ($20-$80) A variety of gauges can be used to measure static pressure in the vent. The range should be between 0 and .1 in. water column (W.C.) and be able to withstand short durations of exposure to hot flue gas.

Manometer: ($15-$65) Manometers can be either water or fluid filled. For measuring natural gas pressure, they need to have a range between 0 and 7 in. W.C. For measuring propane, the range is between 0 and 14 in. W.C. We have found the 14 in. water filled are the easiest to use (you fill it with water at the site).

Orifice Drills: ($100-$150) The drills are used to determine the size of the orifice. When matched with the pressure information, this can determine the Btu input.

Efficiency Testing Equipment: ($450-$3,500) To measure steady state efficiency (SSE) you need to know the stack temperature, combustion air temperature, CO level, and either oxygen or carbon dioxide levels. Both analog and digital equipment is available that will test for all of the components. The low cost equipment requires a separate tool and test for each measurement.

Gas Leak Detector: ($200-$250) Specialized soap solutions are available (they do not freeze if left in the truck) to verify leaks. Most equipment is electronic and is sensitive to a wide range of combustible gases.