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A gas detector is the first line of defense in protecting worker safety. These systems alert teams to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, combustible gases, natural gas, and other hazardous gases before they become life-threatening.

But when small warning signs are ignored, gas detectors may not perform when they are needed most. That can mean missed detections, costly downtime, and serious risks to people and property. Regular gas detector servicing keeps equipment calibrated, reliable, and compliant with safety standards.

1. Unusual Beeping, Flashing Lights, or Alarms

Unexpected beeping or flashing lights should never be ignored. They may signal an expired part, internal malfunction, or a calibration error.

Continuous monitoring systems may also generate alerts when calibration, maintenance, or service is overdue. If alarms go off without a clear reason, treat it as a red flag and call for inspection right away.

2. Sensors Not Responding to Test Gas

Every gas detector should respond when exposed to test gas during a routine check. If a sensor does not detect toxic gases like hydrogen cyanide, sulfur dioxide, or nitrogen dioxide, it may be degraded or need calibration.

When sensors stop reacting to test gas, your team may be left unprotected from real leaks. This is a clear signal that professional service is required.

3. Expired Calibration Due Dates

Gas sensors naturally drift over time. Calibration is what keeps their readings accurate and compliant.

Skipping calibration dates risks missed detections of oxygen, methane, hydrogen, chlorine dioxide, and other gases. Failing to stay current can also lead to audit findings or violations during inspections.

4. Increased False Alarms or Missed Detections

Frequent false alarms waste time, cause unnecessary evacuations, and lower trust in the system. Even worse, sensors that fail to register real leaks of carbon monoxide, natural gas, or other hazards put worker safety at risk.

Poorly maintained oxygen and flammable detection systems are common culprits of false alarms. Regular gas detector service ensures detectors respond correctly, reducing both nuisance alerts and dangerous oversights.

5. Physical Damage or Corrosion

Physical damage is easy to overlook but can undermine accuracy. Cracked housings, corrosion, or moisture intrusion can all compromise sensor performance.

Portable gas detectors are especially vulnerable because they are carried, dropped, and exposed to harsh conditions. Even minor damage shortens equipment lifespan and should be addressed before the detector is put back into service.

The Cost of Ignoring Warning Signs

Small issues quickly turn into major problems if left unchecked. A recent example involved a distribution center that had to fully evacuate due to a false alarm on a hydrogen detection system. Employees waited in the parking lot while packages sat unsorted and trucks stood idle. The downtime likely cost the company in the mid six figures.

Planned gas detector servicing can cost as little as $1500. Emergency visits, however, can climb to $2500 or $3000 as a base fee. Portable units can often be mailed in, but fixed systems require on-site technicians and sometimes overtime pay. Ignoring early signs of trouble always ends up being more expensive.

How Hawk Handles Gas Detector Service

Missed calibration records or expired due dates often come up during safety audits or regulatory inspections. Sometimes they are triggered by employee complaints, and facilities scramble to recover. Hawk’s documentation process ensures everything is in order so that facilities remain compliant and avoid shutdowns.

Our technicians know how to plan ahead. By reviewing photos or serial numbers, we arrive with the right supplies in hand. We also have the manufacturer “back-door” access needed to reset systems properly, and our priority status with manufacturers means parts arrive faster and at a better price. That combination keeps your detectors serviced, calibrated, and back online without wasted time.

Keep Your Facility Safe with Hawk Equipment

Your gas detectors are protecting worker safety around the clock, but only if they are maintained properly. From expired calibration dates to unexplained alarms, the warning signs of trouble should never be ignored.

Hawk provides complete gas detector service, including calibration, maintenance, and repair. We work with all major equipment brands, covering both fixed and portable systems. Contact Hawk today to schedule gas detector servicing and ensure your system delivers the reliable protection your team depends on.