sensors24/7 Emergency Service

LEL & Combustible Gas Sensor Calibration

NFPA-compliant gas sensor calibration and testing to

Function

Detects combustible gas concentrations and triggers alarms or shutdowns before reaching explosive levels

Location

Mounted in paint booth exhaust duct, spray zone, or mixing room

Typical Lifespan

2-5 years depending on exposure and environment

Service Options

Repair Service
Replacement Service
Preventive Maintenance
24/7 Emergency Available

Signs of Combustible Gas Sensor (LEL Sensor) Failure

Sensor fails bump test or span calibration
Slow response time during calibration
Drift requiring frequent recalibration
No response to calibration gas
Controller showing sensor fault
Erratic readings or false alarms
Sensor past manufacturer expiration date

What Causes Combustible Gas Sensor (LEL Sensor) Failure

Understanding the root cause helps determine whether repair or replacement is the best option.

Sensor Poisoning

common

Exposure to silicones, lead compounds, or other catalyst poisons permanently damages sensing element.

Normal Sensor Degradation

common

Catalytic bead sensors naturally degrade over time, especially with continuous exposure.

Environmental Contamination

occasional

Dust, paint overspray, or moisture blocking sensor membrane or affecting readings.

High Concentration Exposure

occasional

Exposure to gas above sensor range can damage or saturate the sensing element.

Wiring or Connection Issues

rare

Corroded connections or damaged wiring affecting signal transmission.

Repair vs. Replace Decision Guide

Repair When...

  • Sensor passes calibration after cleaning
  • Wiring or connection issues can be resolved
  • Controller fault is software/configuration related

Replace When...

  • Sensor fails to calibrate to spec
  • Sensor is past manufacturer expiration
  • Response time exceeds acceptable limits
  • Sensor has been poisoned by contaminants
  • Physical damage to sensor housing

Cost Comparison

Calibration service $150-300 per sensor. Sensor replacement $300-800 depending on type and brand.

Lifespan Considerations

LEL sensors are consumable items with limited lifespan. Budget for replacement every 2-3 years in harsh environments.

Brands Using This Component

We service combustible gas sensor (lel sensor) across all major paint booth brands.

Honeywell Analytics

SearchpointSensepoint

MSA Safety

UltimaSensor Series

Industrial Scientific

VentisGasBadge

Drager

PolytronPIR Series

RKI Instruments

GX SeriesBeacon

Det-Tronics

GT3000PointWatch

Our Combustible Gas Sensor (LEL Sensor) Service Process

1

Sensor Inspection

Visual inspection of sensor, housing, and connections for damage or contamination.

2

Zero Calibration

Calibrate sensor to zero in clean air or nitrogen environment.

3

Span Calibration

Apply certified calibration gas and adjust sensor to read correct concentration.

4

Response Time Test

Verify sensor responds within manufacturer specifications (typically T90 under 30 seconds).

5

Documentation

Provide calibration certificate with date, readings, gas lot number, and next due date.

Combustible Gas Sensor (LEL Sensor) Service FAQ

Common questions about combustible gas sensor (lel sensor) repair and replacement

NFPA 33 and most manufacturers require calibration at least every 90 days, though many facilities calibrate monthly. Bump testing should be performed more frequently, often weekly or before each shift in high-hazard environments.
Bump testing is a quick functional check where you expose the sensor to gas and verify it responds and triggers alarms. Calibration is a more thorough process that adjusts the sensor to read accurate concentrations. Both are important for safety.
Common causes include exposure to sensor poisons (silicones, lead, sulfur compounds), excessive solvent exposure, or simply reaching end of sensor life. Consider sensor location, ventilation, and solvent types used. Some environments require more frequent sensor replacement.

Have a question not answered here?

Call us at (877) 489-3727

Related Troubleshooting

Need Combustible Gas Sensor (LEL Sensor) Service?

WERCS technicians have the expertise and parts to get your combustible gas sensor (lel sensor) working properly. 24/7 emergency service available.