A standard carbon monoxide (CO) detector does not detect natural gas; they are different gases that require different sensors. Natural gas, primarily methane (CH4), is a fuel that is detected by a natural gas detector. Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas produced by incomplete combustion and is detected by a CO detector. However, combination detectors are available that include both a natural gas sensor and a CO sensor.
Natural gas and CO are different
Natural gas: Primarily methane CH4)), it is a combustible fuel used in appliances like furnaces and stoves. A leak is an explosion and fire risk.
Carbon monoxide: A toxic, invisible, and odorless gas produced as a byproduct of burning fuels in low-oxygen environments. It poses a risk of poisoning and is dangerous to human health.
What you need for safety
Natural gas detector: You need a specific natural gas detector (also called a methane or combustible gas detector) to sense leaks from appliances like gas stoves, furnaces, or water heaters.
Carbon monoxide detector: You need a separate carbon monoxide detector, especially near sleeping areas and gas-burning appliances, to warn you of the dangerous byproduct of combustion.
Combination detectors: For convenience, you can purchase a combination device that includes both a natural gas sensor and a carbon monoxide sensor in a single unit.
