Natural Gas Alarms Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Our Alarms And Gas Safety
How to Install a DeNova Detect Alarm
Learn how to install the NEW DeNova Detect battery powered 10-year natural gas and carbon monoxide alarm.
Be Ready With an Evacuation Plan
Download PDFProduct Questions
Q: How many Natural Gas Alarms should I have in my home?
A: DeNova Detect recommends installing a Gas Alarm in every room where you have a natural gas appliance—such as a stove, furnace, dryer, water heater, or fireplace.
Q: What is the battery life of the DeNova Detect 10-Year Wireless Natural Gas Alarm?
A: The battery lasts for the life of the product, which is approximately 10
years. If a replacement battery is needed within the 10-year lifetime, you can
contact DeNova Detect. The battery used for the alarms is not available at
retail stores.
Q: Will my carbon monoxide alarm detect natural gas leaks?
A: No. Carbon monoxide alarms are not designed to detect natural gas. You need a dedicated Natural Gas Alarm like DeNova Detect DD620NC or DD623NCV for that purpose.
Q: Is pressing the test button the only way to test my alarm?
A: Yes. You should always test your alarm using the designated test button. Do not use actual gas to test the alarm. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: How do I know my alarm is working?
A: Regular testing with the test button and visible indicators (LEDs) help ensure it is functioning. The green LED remains off during normal operation. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: How often should I replace the battery?
A: The battery does not need to be replaced; the entire unit should be replaced after the life of the product. If a replacement battery is needed within the product’s lifetime, you can contact DeNova Detect. The battery used for the alarms is not available at retail locations. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: When is it time to replace my Gas Alarm?
A: Replace the alarm when it reaches the end of its service life or if the “Trouble LED” is active and cannot be resolved. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: Why does my Gas Alarm chirp approximately once every minute?
A: This indicates that the battery is low. You will also see the “Trouble LED” on the device blinking once every 10 seconds, and the audible alert will beep once and say “Low Battery” every minute. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: What do I do if my alarm goes off?
A: Evacuate the building immediately. Do not operate lights, electronics, or phones. Once you’re safely outside, call 911 or your local gas utility to report the leak.
Q: What is the size of the alarm?
A: The DD620NV/DD623NCV measures 3.8 x 3.8 x 1.6 inches and the ML-310ES measures 3.3 x 3.9 x 1.3 inches.
Q: What is the difference between a carbon monoxide and Natural Gas Alarm?
A: CO alarms detect carbon monoxide—a byproduct of incomplete combustion. Natural Gas Alarms detect methane leaks from fuel lines or appliances.
Q: Can something else trigger my alarm to go off?
A: It is unlikely household objects such as aerosols or cleaning agents will cause nuisance alarms to DeNova Detect alarms; however, when cleaning the alarm do not use spray cleaning chemicals or insect sprays directly on or near the Gas Alarm.
Q: Why is my alarm going off if there is no gas leak?
A: The alarm can beep for several indications; please refer to the user manual
for details. If the alarm for a gas leak is activated and it is confirmed there is no gas leak, the alarm may be faulty.
Q: Why do I need a Natural Gas Alarm if I can smell gas?
A: Some people may not recognize the smell, especially if they have a reduced sense of smell or are sleeping. The alarm provides critical protection.
Q: Can I connect my alarms to my phone?
A: The standard consumer models do not connect to mobile apps. Contact customer support for commercial/connected model availability.
Q: What communication platforms are the alarms compatible with?
A: DeNova Detect’s commercial models may be integrated with platforms like LoRaWAN and other wireless protocols for commercial monitoring. The residential models are stand-alone.
Q: What does lower explosive limit (LEL) mean?
A: LEL refers to the lowest concentration of gas in air that can ignite. DeNova Detect alarms activate at 10% LEL to provide early warning.
Q: What does the “Power LED” do?
A: The “Power LED” indicates the device is powered and functioning properly. To check if the Natural Gas Alarm is on, press the Test button. The “Power LED” remains off during normal operation. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: What does the “Trouble LED” do?
A: The “Trouble LED” alerts you to a malfunction or issue, such as low battery
or device fault, or that the alarm has reached end-of-service life. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: What does the “Alarm LED” do?
A: The “Alarm LED” flashes and sounds the audible alarm when gas is detected. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: Can this alarm be used for propane?
A: No. Current models are not designed for propane.
Q: Do you sell propane alarms?
A: DeNova Detect is developing propane-compatible alarms.
Q: Are DeNova Detect alarms listed to UL 1484 or UL 2075?
A: Yes, the alarms are UL 1484 listed for residential gas detection. Refer to
the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: Is the alarm compliant with NFPA 715?
A: Yes, the alarm meets key criteria outlined in NFPA 715 for residential gas detection placement and performance.
Q: Why is the “Power LED” off?
A: This is normal. In some models, the “Power LED” only lights up during
startup or test mode. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional information.
Q: Why isn’t the alarm sounding when I release gas from the stove?
A: Alarm thresholds are set for safety, and stove releases may not reach the alarm’s sensitivity threshold. Never attempt to test the alarm using gas.
Installation Questions
Q: Where should I install my Natural Gas Alarm?
A: You should install your Natural Gas Alarm on a wall within 12 inches of the ceiling and at least 3 feet but no more than 10 feet away horizontally from gas appliances.
Q: Where should I avoid placing my alarm?
A: Avoid placing your alarm in corners, dead air spaces, areas behind furniture, or near windows/vents that may disrupt air flow.
Q: Why should I install my alarm near the ceiling?
A: Natural gas is lighter than air and rises—higher placement ensures earlier detection.
Q: What if I don’t have enough space to install my alarm?
A: Contact customer support for help identifying a compliant alternate placement.
Q: How do I open the battery door?
A: All models have a battery door that can be opened by sliding the cover off the back of the Gas Alarm housing.
Q: I accidentally removed the plastic wrap from the battery—what should I do?
A: Please contact customer support for a replacement battery.
Q: Can I install the alarm on the ceiling?
A: No. Install on a wall within 12 inches from the ceiling per manufacturer
instructions.
Q: Can I use command strips or adhesives?
A: Mounting screws are recommended for secure installation. Adhesive strips may not be reliable over time.
Q: The alarm isn’t powering on. What do I do?
A: Confirm battery activation. If the issue persists, contact customer support.
Q: Where should I place the alarm if I have cathedral ceilings?
A: Contact support for specific guidance. Placement varies with ceiling height
and room layout.
Pricing & Ordering
Q: Are there any discounts or promo codes?
A: Promotional offers may be available through retail partners or during special campaigns.
Q: Can I get bulk pricing or quotes?
A: Yes. Contact sales@denovadetect.com for bulk order inquiries.
Legislation & Compliance
Q: Are Natural Gas Alarms required by law?
A: Some cities like New York City have enacted laws requiring Natural Gas Alarms in certain residences (e.g., NYC Local Law 157). Requirements vary by
jurisdiction.
Q: Is the alarm compliant with NYC LL157?
A: Yes. DeNova Detect alarms are listed to UL 1484 and meet NYC LL157 requirements for natural gas detection.
Q: Are DeNova Detect Gas Alarms listed?
A: The following products are ETL listed to UL 1484: ML-310, ML-310ES, ML-330, and DD620NV. The DD623NCV is also ETL listed to UL 2034.
All DeNova Detect alarms meet the requirements of the NFPA 715 Standard for the Installation of Fuel Gas Detectors when installed correctly. Additionally, each alarm is listed with the California State Fire Marshal (CSFM), ensuring compliance with state safety and performance regulations.
Order & Shipping
Q: Where is my order?
A: You may track your order via the confirmation email or by contacting customer support.
Q: How long does shipping take?
A: Orders typically ship within 2–5 business days.
Q: Is shipping free?
A: Shipping costs vary based on retailer or promotion.
Q: Can I return my alarm?
A: Yes, you may return your alarm within the return policy guidelines. Contact
customer support for return instructions.
Q: Can I change my shipping address?
A: If you need to change your shipping address, contact customer support immediately. Changes may not be possible after an order is processed.
Q: Can I change my payment method?
A: Submitted orders cannot have payment methods changed.
Q: Can I cancel my order?
A: Contact customer support as soon as possible to request an order cancellation.
Q: What is the warranty period?
A: The alarms have a 10-year limited warranty.
Natural Gas Safety Questions
Q: What are some common sources of natural gas leaks?
A: Common sources of natural gas leaks include faulty stoves, water heaters,
furnaces, fireplaces, or damaged gas lines.
Q: Is natural gas heavier than air?
A: No. Natural gas is lighter than air and rises.
Q: What causes natural gas leaks?
A: Natural gas leaks may be caused by poorly installed appliances, corrosion, faulty fittings, or accidental damage to gas lines.
Residential Natural Gas Safety
Q: What should I do if I smell natural gas in my home?
A: Leave the area immediately. Do not operate lights, electronics, or phones. Once you’re safely outside, call 911 or your local gas utility to report the leak.
Q: How can I detect a natural gas leak?
A: Look for signs like a rotten egg smell, hissing sounds near gas lines, dead vegetation in otherwise green areas, or bubbles in water. These can all indicate a gas leak.
Q: Why does natural gas have a smell?
A: Natural gas is odorless in its natural state. An odorant called mercaptan is added by utilities to give it a distinct rotten egg smell, making leaks easier to detect.
Q: Can I use my natural gas appliances during a power outage?
A: Some natural gas appliances may work during power outages, but not all. Never use outdoor appliances like grills indoors. Always check manufacturer instructions.
Q: How often should my natural gas appliances be inspected?
A: It’s recommended to have a qualified professional inspect your appliances once a year to ensure safe operation.
Q: What is carbon monoxide and how is it related to natural gas?
A: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a dangerous, odorless gas produced when Natural Gas or Propane is not burned completely. Faulty appliances or poor ventilation can lead to CO exposure.
Q: Should I have a carbon monoxide detector in my home?
A: Yes. Install CO detectors near bedrooms and on each floor of your home to alert you to unsafe levels of carbon monoxide.
Q: How can I prevent natural gas leaks in my home?
A: You can prevent natural gas leaks in your home by scheduling regular inspections of natural gas appliances, ensuring proper installation, and promptly addressing maintenance issues with a licensed technician.
Q: What does a pressure regulator do in a home gas system? A: It maintains safe and consistent gas pressure entering your home from
the utility supply.
General Questions
Q: What are your customer support hours?
A: Our customer support hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST.