Gas warning systems must be serviced regularly in order to be able to fulfill their function. The service includes the calibration of the sensors and, if necessary, the replacement of measuring cells. For most applications, the service is performed once a year. Special applications may require semi-annual service. Depending on the measuring method and gas concentration, immediate maintenance must be carried out after a gas alarm.
Calibration of the sensors
The sensors are recalibrated during maintenance. The measuring cell of each sensor is gassed with test gas in order to test the function of the measuring cell and to adjust the zero point and slope of the measuring curve.
By calibrating the individual sensors, the function of the entire gas warning system is also checked. It is ensured that the alarm thresholds triggered by the test gas have been registered on the gas warning system.
Optical and acoustic signaling devices are also tested. If desired, alarm forwarding can be triggered in the presence of the technical service, or suppressed so that emergency response forces are not unnecessarily deployed.
Replacement of measuring cells
The measuring cells built into the sensors have a limited service life. As wearing parts, they are worn by time and their exposure to gases.
The service life of measuring cells depends on the measuring method used. We adhere to the manufacturer’s specifications and periodically replace the measuring cells at the end of their service life.
The service life is a guideline. It can be negatively influenced by the room climate, mostly by temperature and humidity, or by exposure to gases. In this case, a measuring cell must also be replaced before the end of its service life.
Lifetime of measuring cells
The following list shows the most common applications and the service life of the measuring cells according to the manufacturer’s information.
| Measurement method | Gas | Lifespan | Application | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrochemical | Carbon Monoxide | CO | 3 years | Parking |
| Electrochemical | Nitrogen Dioxide | NO2 | 2 years | Parking |
| Electrochemical | Oxygen | O2 | 3 years | Nnitrogen detection |
| Catalytic | Methane | CH4 | 5 years | Kitchen & heating |
| Chemosorption | Refrigerant | R134a | 3 years | Cooling |
| Infrared | Carbon Dioxide | CO2 | 10 years | Industry |
Service log
Each commissioning, service and troubleshooting is completed with a service log. The log contains a list of all sensors including the service life of each measuring cell, and confirms the checks carried out and the alarm thresholds triggered for each sensor. The signed protocol then serves as valuable documentation for the safety concept of the property.
Measures in the event of a gas alarm
- Leave the room immediately
- Alert the responsible office (facility management, fire brigade Tel. 118)
- Prevent entry
- Mobilize Müller-Elektronik AG (Tel. +41 52 633 05 70)
After a gas alarm
A gas warning system which has triggered an alarm must be checked for correct function. If necessary, measuring cells must be replaced and gas sensors re-calibrated.
