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[Solved] Intermittent Activation of Gas Detector in Ferroli Divacondens Furnace and Gas Setup

justyna834 29907 14
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  • #1 18975719
    justyna834
    Level 4  
    Posts: 28
    Rate: 12
    We have a new furnace since about June this year as well as a new gas installation. Bake ferroli divacondens something like this. It heats water and heats radiators. The stove is located in the kitchen with a window above the stove with a gas and carbon monoxide sensor. The kitchen has a window. This room is 2.20 by 2.00. One day, while taking a bath, the gas detector was activated. We were afraid, we called the gas ambulance and they cut off our gas. They tested the sensors, it was ok, they asked to check the gas hob. The next day we called the hob, the service was also ok. After a month, the gas sensor was turned on again when using hot water in the kitchen. I don't know. What's wrong....for now, silence. But I'm afraid it will be a problem again. Intermittent Activation of Gas Detector in Ferroli Divacondens Furnace and Gas Setup Intermittent Activation of Gas Detector in Ferroli Divacondens Furnace and Gas Setup Intermittent Activation of Gas Detector in Ferroli Divacondens Furnace and Gas Setup
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    #2 18975764
    Cowboy zagrabie
    Level 31  
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    One comma is missing and we don't know if the window is above the stove or the sensors above the window.... :(
    Where is the chimney outlet? In the wall next to the window, or vertically led out to the roof. Did the carbon monoxide or gas detector work? What gas do you use? Mains (natural) or propane butane?
  • #3 18976097
    justyna834
    Level 4  
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    Rate: 12
    Sorry, I was typing fast. The gas and carbon monoxide detector is in the corner above the stove. The window is on the other side of the stove. The chimney outlet from the stove goes to the roof vertically upwards.

    Added after 40 [seconds]:

    Mains gas used. The gas detector caught fire

    Added after 1 [minutes]:

    Intermittent Activation of Gas Detector in Ferroli Divacondens Furnace and Gas Setup
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    #4 18976513
    Cowboy zagrabie
    Level 31  
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    Well, we don't know what type of sensor yet, it looks like Safehaus SGH-01, but I may be wrong.
    Did it signal a threat continuously or did it beep for a while and shut down? Occasionally, opening a trash can with fermenting waste can release enough gas to trigger a detector, especially in confined spaces. Does the room have a ventilation stack grille?
  • #5 18976563
    justyna834
    Level 4  
    Posts: 28
    Rate: 12
    Yes, this grate is on the other side of the furnace
    And the signal from the sensor was continuous. The water in the kitchen was turned on for a long time and then it turned on
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    #6 18977479
    BUCKS
    Level 39  
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    I did not understand what the sensor signaled a gas leak or the appearance of carbon monoxide.
    Because if carbon monoxide, I would buy a second sensor, eg Kidde 10LLCO, which has a display and if carbon monoxide is detected, it will show the value on the display. Even in the absence of an indication, you can see the peak value recorded since the last peak reset. This will allow you to better assess whether the current sensor is crazy, or you actually have a problem with carbon monoxide, since the gas company employees have not detected anything.
    Your boiler is supposedly a condensing boiler, i.e. with a closed combustion chamber, so in theory the carbon monoxide problem should not occur, but if the current sensor reacts, you need to verify it as soon as possible, because there are no jokes with gas and it cannot be delayed.
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  • #7 18977533
    justyna834
    Level 4  
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    It signaled gas not carbon monoxide
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    #8 18977765
    BUCKS
    Level 39  
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    the question is what brand is this sensor.
    For me, reliable sensors were made by, for example, GAZEX, but if it's some strange Chinese, I'd be careful.
    I don't know of any other natural gas sensors you could buy for comparison. Natural gas is odorized, so in theory if the sensor detects a concentration, it should be detectable through the nose, unless you have trouble detecting odors. In addition, if you have a condensing boiler, a closed chamber excludes gas leakage on the boiler side, but I am an amateur, I don't know everything and I can be wrong in this matter. But since the gas company has not detected anything, the certainty of the measurement of this sensor is questionable. Gazex requires periodic calibration, theoretically every year, so it is not a maintenance-free sensor for several years.
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    #9 18978113
    Lisek64
    Level 33  
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    And how old is this gas sensor . At my friends' place I saw a sensor with an expiration date and information on where it is recommended to install it
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  • #10 18978126
    justyna834
    Level 4  
    Posts: 28
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    Intermittent Activation of Gas Detector in Ferroli Divacondens Furnace and Gas Setup I added a picture

    Added after 1 [minutes]:

    The sensor and boiler are new. We live here for two months. We did everything new from A to Z
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    #11 18991291
    Domelski
    Level 19  
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    1. What sensor such security and alarms. Buy something decent, not market cheap. Your friend suggested Gazex.
    2. I can't see the boiler from the pictures, but if it's an open chamber and an uninsulated chimney, the sensor is quite close and may heat up, and the measurement may be disturbed. Most instructions state about 1m or even 1.5m from the chimney, ventilation inlets/outlets, windows, etc.
    3. The sensor can react to other gases appearing in the air (e.g. propane-butane from deodorants or hairsprays, alcohol from perfumes, etc.) so it is worth checking whether, for example, we did not do something and then the detector worked.
    4. Semiconductor detectors can react to water vapor (mainly rapid changes), so a lover of an intense, hot bath can trigger an alarm.

    BUCKS wrote:
    Because if carbon monoxide, I would buy a second sensor, eg Kidde 10LLCO, which has a display and if carbon monoxide is detected, it will show the value on the display.

    What does it change? It does not matter how the sensor signals - whether with a diode or a display. If the sensor indicates incorrectly or there is a false alarm, then the LED or display will also turn on, which will show some value, but false. The diode or display is just a form of informing the user triggered by the same system. But psychologically, people catch on that if I have gas on the display, there is gas, and if the diode blinks, the sensor sucks :shocked!:
    The display helps with low states (i.e. before the alarm) because it shows that the sensor detects something. For example, we have started the boiler and the concentration is increasing. And this is important feedback that the action can cause something.
    If someone wants to play with measurements, hang a few sensors (there will be a comparison), and a sensor with a different type of sensor (it will exclude, for example, some types of false alarms), etc.

    In fact, it's about buying a good sensor, reading the manual and taking it to the service from time to time (even if the manual says you don't have to).
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    #12 18991420
    BUCKS
    Level 39  
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    Domelski wrote:
    What does it change? It does not matter how the sensor signals - whether with a diode or a display.

    the display changes what you wrote yourself:
    Domelski wrote:
    The display helps with low states (i.e. before the alarm) because it shows that the sensor detects something.

    an ordinary sensor will only show an alarm, i.e. when the concentration exceeds a predetermined level.
    If a value greater than 0 appears on the display in the history of the highest concentrations, it is a signal to increase vigilance, because maybe something is wrong and the problem will appear randomly.
    Although this may be a false indication but it gives us more information.
    I prefer more data than just information about extreme values or 0 or 1.
  • #13 18992670
    justyna834
    Level 4  
    Posts: 28
    Rate: 12
    everyone. Thank you, we will buy a new sensor.
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    #14 18993309
    Domelski
    Level 19  
    Posts: 222
    Help: 30
    Rate: 110
    BUCKS we both know what's up. People just when they see the display and the alarm on it, they will consider it real. And if the alarm is signaled by a diode, then the sensor is definitely broken because you can't feel anything. That's why I wrote it.
    They also often catch that if a crappy sensor has a display, it is better because there is only a diode in a decent sensor. Just like the mentioned Gazex, which is also ugly and looks like from the 80s (because probably this housing was designed in the 80s) :D But still, I would probably prefer a good sensor with a diode, and preferably a good sensor with a display :D
  • #15 19004012
    justyna834
    Level 4  
    Posts: 28
    Rate: 12
    Purchase a new sensor

Topic summary

✨ The discussion revolves around the intermittent activation of a gas detector in a Ferroli Divacondens furnace setup. The user reports that the gas detector, located above the stove in a small kitchen, activated during hot water usage and while taking a bath, prompting a gas emergency response. The gas company found no issues, and the user is concerned about potential false alarms. Responses suggest checking the type and reliability of the gas detector, with recommendations for reputable brands like Gazex and Kidde. Factors such as sensor placement, potential interference from other gases, and the need for periodic calibration are discussed. The user plans to purchase a new sensor for better reliability.
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FAQ

TL;DR: Keep gas detectors 1–1.5 m from vents/windows; "Semiconductor detectors can react to water vapor." If alarms happen during hot water use, suspect placement or steam before appliance faults. This FAQ helps homeowners stop intermittent alarms around Ferroli Divacondens. [Elektroda, Domelski, post #18991291]

Why it matters: For homeowners with Ferroli Divacondens or similar boilers, this helps prevent false alarms without missing real gas hazards.

Quick Facts

  • Typical domestic methane detectors alarm near 10% LEL (~0.44% vol CH4), which is the standard trigger for household units. [Kidde, 2019]
  • Placement: keep 1–1.5 m from windows, vents, and flue outlets; steam and aerosols can cause false alarms. [Elektroda, Domelski, post #18991291]
  • Annual calibration/verification is recommended; low-cost sensors can drift and need periodic service. [Elektroda, BUCKS, post #18977765]
  • CO alarms are different devices; they do not detect methane or propane. Choose the correct detector type. [Kidde, 2020]
  • A CO alarm with display and peak memory (e.g., Kidde 10LLCO) helps diagnose intermittent CO issues. [Elektroda, BUCKS, post #18977479]

Why does my gas detector go off when I run hot water or shower?

Hot water adds steam and rapid humidity changes that can trigger semiconductor gas sensors. Aerosols used nearby can also set them off. "Semiconductor detectors can react to water vapor." Reposition the unit away from steam paths, then retest. [Elektroda, Domelski, post #18991291]

How far from windows, vents, or a boiler flue should I mount a methane detector?

Keep the detector 1–1.5 m from ventilation inlets/outlets, windows, and flue openings. Avoid spots where drafts, heat, or exhaust dilute or distort readings. Relocate if it sits near a chimney or uninsulated flue. [Elektroda, Domelski, post #18991291]

Can sprays, perfumes, or cleaning products trigger a gas alarm?

Yes. Many aerosols use propane/butane propellants, and alcohol vapors from perfumes or cleaners can cross-trigger explosive gas sensors. Move the detector away from routine spray zones and reduce sprays near it to check for false activation. [Elektroda, Domelski, post #18991291]

Could trash or drains cause false gas alarms?

Yes. Opening a trash can with fermenting waste can release gases that momentarily reach alarm thresholds, especially in small kitchens. Improve ventilation and isolate the detector from direct drafts rising from bins or drains. [Elektroda, Cowboy zagrabie, post #18976513]

Do condensing boilers with closed combustion chambers leak CO or gas into the room?

Closed-chamber (room-sealed) appliances draw air from outside and vent flue gases outdoors, reducing room CO risk. If a gas alarm sounds near such a boiler, check nearby hobs, piping, or sensor placement first. Still verify with an additional detector. [Elektroda, BUCKS, post #18977479]

How can I rule out a false alarm in three steps?

  1. Ventilate the room and stop steam/aerosols; silence the alarm per manual.
  2. Reposition the detector 1–1.5 m from vents/windows/flues and away from steam sources.
  3. Avoid sprays, run hot water again, and observe whether the alarm repeats. [Elektroda, Domelski, post #18991291]

Are budget gas detectors reliable, or should I buy a Gazex-type unit?

Quality matters. Cheap market detectors can misread or drift. Community experts advise buying a decent unit, with Gazex often cited for reliability. Read the manual and plan periodic service. [Elektroda, Domelski, post #18991291]

Which CO detector helps track intermittent carbon monoxide issues?

Choose a CO alarm with a display and peak memory, like the Kidde 10LLCO. It shows current and peak ppm, helping you spot patterns before full alarms. This added context improves diagnostics. [Elektroda, BUCKS, post #18977479]

Do CO alarms detect natural gas or propane?

No. CO alarms detect carbon monoxide only. They do not detect methane or propane. For explosive gas risks, use an explosive gas detector designed for methane/LPG. [Kidde, 2020]

Where should I mount a natural gas (methane) detector—high or low?

Mount it high. Methane’s relative density is about 0.55 versus air, so it rises toward the ceiling. For propane/LPG, mount low because it sinks. Place away from dead-air corners to improve response. [Engineering Toolbox, 2023]

How often should I calibrate or service a gas detector?

Plan annual verification or calibration. Semiconductor sensors drift over time, and reputable makers specify periodic checks. Skipping service increases false alarms or missed leaks. Keep documentation for warranty and safety audits. [Elektroda, BUCKS, post #18977765]

Does a gas detector expire?

Yes. Many consumer detectors have an expiration date on the label and recommended placement notes. Replace units at end-of-life to maintain accuracy and reduce nuisance alarms. [Elektroda, Lisek64, post #18978113]

I can’t smell gas, but the alarm is sounding. What should I trust?

Treat alarms seriously. Natural gas is odorized, but individual smell sensitivity varies. Confirm with a second, quality detector placed correctly, and have the installation checked if alerts persist. [Elektroda, BUCKS, post #18977765]

What should I do immediately when my gas detector alarms?

Ventilate by opening doors and windows, leave the area, and avoid switches or flames. Shut off gas if safe, then call your gas emergency line from outside. Do not ignore alarms, even if you smell nothing. [NFPA, 2021]

My alarm is continuous. What does that indicate?

A steady alarm usually means the sensor detected gas above its threshold. Consult your model’s manual for exact alarm patterns and reset steps. Some units also show gas type or error codes. [Kidde, 2019]

Could the boiler flue’s heat interfere with the detector?

Yes. A detector mounted close to a chimney or uninsulated flue can heat up, distorting measurements and causing false alarms. Keep at least about 1 m distance from these features. [Elektroda, Domelski, post #18991291]
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