Best Hydrogen Detector (2024 update)

A hydrogen gas detector is a critical safety device that accurately senses and measures the concentration of hydrogen (H2) in the air. These analyzers are essential for personal protection in hazardous gas environments where exposure to hydrogen may occur. Hydrogen gas detectors are commonly found in industrial settings, battery storage centers, and hydrogen fuel cell facilities, where they continuously monitor the air and provide real-time H2 concentration measurements. While hydrogen is an important alternative source of energy storage, it can become dangerous if a leak occurs and the gas accumulates indoors. By alerting users to potentially dangerous levels of hydrogen, these gas detectors help prevent explosions and ensure the safety of workers in industries where hydrogen is present.

Pros	Cons
Small and low-cost detectors are available for H2 gas safety. Easy to use hydrogen electrochemical cells. Many H2 detector models are available for less than $399. Used often for battery rooms.	Users often forget bump testing and calibration. Sensors typically last from 24 to 36 months (some work for over 5 years). Tricky to measure as it is a light gas. Hydrogen is explosive and very flammable.

Best Hydrogen Gas Detector?

There are many hydrogen gas detectors on the market, including electrochemical (ppm) and or catalytic bead (%LEL) analyzers. The reputable brands include the following:

• Forensics Detectors Personal Hydrogen Detector
• Forensics Detectors Wall Mount for Battery Rooms
• SBS Hydrogen Gas Detector
• MSA H2 Monitors
• RKI Portable H2 Detectors
• Industrial Scientific H2 Monitors
• Draeger H2 Meters
• Sensidyne H2 Detectors

Best Hydrogen Gas Detector for Personal Safety?

How Is Hydrogen (H2) Gas Detected?

Hydrogen is detected using a measuring instrument known as a hydrogen gas detector. These devices are specific to hydrogen gas. Hydrogen gas detectors are composed of electronics and an H2 sensor.

The gas sensor converts the detected hydrogen gas concentration to an electronic signal for analysis by the onboard microprocessor. From there, the processor outputs the reading to the display. If the measured amount of H2 exceeds the pre-set values, alarms will be triggered to warn the user. Other functions, such as instructing a relay to switch on a fan or ventilation system, are also common.

What Is a Portable Hydrogen Gas Detector?

A portable hydrogen gas detector is an instrument used to analyze the concentration of hydrogen in the air. These small gas detectors have a long-lasting battery, large screen that displays the hydrogen levels, and a belt clip to connect to clothing. The devices also have LED, vibration, and buzzer alarms.

A hydrogen gas detector is sometimes called an H2 monitor, a hydrogen sniffer, a hydrogen analyzer, or hydrogen gas tester. These names all refer to a hydrogen gas detector.

What Does a Hydrogen Detector Measure?

A hydrogen gas detector senses hydrogen (H2) in the air and displays the levels in parts per million (ppm) concentration.

While most hydrogen gas detectors detect low ppm levels (0 - 1000 ppm), others are designed to measure higher level concentrations in %LEL.

What Is Hydrogen Gas?

Hydrogen has the chemical symbol H2. It is a very light gas, a physically small compound, and becomes highly flammable at concentrations greater than 4%.

Because it is a very useful gas, hydrogen production has tripled since 1975. The growth of hydrogen gas has been fueled by its use in the semiconductor, refining, and renewable energy industries. Its growth has also resulted in an increased demand for gas detection instrumentation.

Hydrogen is also used in refining gas products, energy storage, as a coolant in power generation, and the chemical industry, especially in making ammonia (NH3).

Interestingly enough, hydrogen gas does not interact with the body and is non-toxic when inhaled. However, it can act as an asphyxiant at a high concentrations where it may displace oxygen levels.

Can I Smell Hydrogen Gas?

No, hydrogen gas is not an aromatic gas and cannot be detected by the human nose.

What Is the Difference Between Hydrogen (H2) and Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Gas?

There is a big difference.

Although their chemical symbols are very similar, H2 and H2S are two completely different gases. Click here for more information on Hydrogen Sulfide Gas Detectors.

How does a Hydrogen Detector work?

A hydrogen gas detector is composed of electronics and an H2 sensor. The H2 gas sensor converts the detected gas concentration to an electronic signal for analysis by the onboard microprocessor. From there, the processor outputs the reading to the display. If the H2 levels exceed the pre-set values, alarms will be triggered to warn the user.

Gas	Sensor Technology	Pros	Cons
Hydrogen (ppm range)	Electrochemical Sensors  The gas reacts with a working electrode, triggering an electrochemical redox reaction. The current generated is proportional to the detected gas level.	Small, fast response, & cheap Easy to integrate with electronics Immediate ON	Limited life from 24 to 36 months Sensitive to carbon monoxide
Hydrogen   (ppm range)	Semiconducting Metal Oxide Sensors The hydrogen gas molecules interact with a film of metal oxide material, where surface redox reactions take place. A power-law relationship occurs between the hydrogen gas concentration and sensor conductivity.	Long lifetime of over 5 years Best for ppm range Low cost Robust	5-minute warm-up time Influenced by temperature and humidity Non-selective
Hydrogen (%LEL range)	Catalytic Bead Pellistor Sensors The hydrogen gas oxidizes on the bead, changing the conductivity of the element. The resistance change is proportional to the H2 concentration.	Low cost Very reliable & simple 5 to 10 year lifespan Best for %LEL range	Non-selective Consumes power for heating Requires startup time for heating

Is Hydrogen Gas Important for Renewable Energy? (H2 Gas Detection Role?)

By itself, H2 doesn't produce any energy but can store energy in gas or liquid form. Hydrogen is an energy supply used as a form of energy, just like a battery. Hydrogen gas is produced using fossil fuels. However, hydrogen is poised to be a critical component in the next generation of renewable energy due to its ability to store energy (like batteries, gasoline, or water in a dam).

The ultimate plan is to store renewable energy in H2 gas or liquid form. When required, hydrogen can be used with a fuel cell to produce useful electrical energy.

Gas detection in this situation is paramount. Think about all of the possible storage and distribution leaks a system may generate over a long period of time. Therefore, low cost and reliable hydrogen gas detection is essential for the next generation of renewable energy.

What Are Safe Hydrogen Gas Levels?

Various government agencies, such as OSHA, NIOSH, and ACGIH, have not made any recommendation on hydrogen gas. This is because it is non-toxic to humans.

Therefore, occupational exposure standards are are based on the flammability of hydrogen gas rather than its toxicity.

Hydrogen is a flammable and explosive gas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA 1988) recommends personnel to evacuate when hydrogen gas reaches 10% of the lower explosive limit. The explosive limit of hydrogen is 4,100 ppm (4.1% volume), while 10% of 4,100 ppm is 410 ppm.

What Is a Hydrogen Detector Used For?

Hydrogen is used in many applications and its uses continue to grow.

• Hydrogen Detection in Battery Rooms: Battery storage and recharging is becoming more common in both industrial and residential settings. Lead acid batteries are cost-effective and have good energy density. They are useful in mobile situations such as power forklifts, carts, and mobile machinery. In addition, they are an excellent option for power backup in critical emergency systems. When recharging lead acid batteries, hydrogen is outgassed. In poorly ventilated rooms, hydrogen accumulation happens quickly, making continuous hydrogen monitoring very important. In these cases, a wall-mounted (or ceiling-mounted) hydrogen monitor with continuous detection is recommended. 
• Hydrogen Detection in Refining: Hydrogen gas is commonly used in oil refinery operations, such as hydrocracking. This is the reduction of heavy gas oils to lower molecular weight constituents. Because the equipment is complex, there is a higher possibility of leaks in confined spaces. These hazardous leaks may cause hydrogen accumulation and asphyxiation. Therefore, both wall-mounted units and personal protection handheld hydrogen detectors are recommend.
• Hydrogen in Ammonia Synthesis: Over half of the hydrogen produced is used to make ammonia (NH3) and fertilizer. Atmospheric nitrogen reacts with hydrogen to produce ammonia, the precursor to nitrogen-based fertilizers.

Can a Gas Leak Detector Be Used to Detect Hydrogen Gas? 

Yes, a combustibles gas leak detector with ppm resolution can be used to detect a hydrogen gas leak - see here.

Gas leak detectors are typically calibrated to detect methane or propane. If using a gas leak detector for hydrogen detection, double-check the calibration and make sure any correcting factors are applied correctly - see here for correcting factor adjustments. 

How Do I Select a Hydrogen Gas Detector?

To select the best hydrogen gas detector, follow this guide. Narrow down your selection by determining your purpose and the answers to these questions:

• Do I need it for a battery room? If so, your best bet is a wall-mounted hydrogen gas monitor.
• Do I need it for personal protection? If so, your best bet is a handheld hydrogen gas detector with alligator clip.
• Do I need a probe with the unit? Do I need to point sample to detect ab H2 gas leak? 
• What is my budget and operating cost budget?
• Do I need advanced functions, such as data-logging or Bluetooth?
• Do I need specific accreditations with the monitor, such as ATEX or a NIST traceability calibration certificate?
• Do I require a belt clip for attaching to my clothes?
• Do I need after-sales support, USA headquarters, or fast calibration services?

How Long Does a Hydrogen Gas Sensor Last For?

Hydrogen detectors that incorporate electrochemical sensors last between 24 and 36 months. Analyzers that incorporate semiconducting metal oxide (ppm) or catalytic bead sensors (%LEL) function for over 5 years.

How Do I Test My Hydrogen Gas Detector?

The best way to test your hydrogen gas detector is to expose it to a known gas source. Generally referred to as bump testing, this is a good practice to perform daily, especially in personal protection applications where safety is paramount.

What Is a Hydrogen Gas Detector Bump Test?

• Bump testing is a procedure when one exposes the detector to a small amount of “blast” target gas to ensure the detector operates and alarms as programmed.
• The function of this test is to verify proper operation and build user confidence, particularly in hazardous applications.
• It is recommended to bump test when first purchased, followed by weekly tests, If using in LIFE-THREATENING and or DANGEROUS applications, bump test daily. 
• Hydrogen bump test gas can be found here.

What Is Hydrogen Detector Gas Calibration?

Hydrogen gas detector calibration is the technical task of adjusting the device to a more accurate gas reading. Over time, the sensors may drift and degrade. We typically suggest calibrating your hydrogen detector every 6 to 12 months, a typical time period for gas detectors. 

Gas calibration is a technical task and requires certain key pieces of equipment. This includes a calibration gas bottle, gas regulator, tubing, and calibration cap fitting. You need to confirm the calibration gas concentration and mixtures with the manufacturer. For the Forensics Detectors hydrogen gas detectors and monitors, we recommend gas calibration with H2 at 100 ppm. See hydrogen calibration gas here.

Be attentive and calibrate daily if:

• The device is used as an analytical tool where accuracy is paramount - such as research or development projects.
• The device is used in an extreme environment (temperature and humidity extremes create sensor drift).
• The user is performing an imminently dangerous or extreme application.
• Bump testing fails. In this case, you must calibrate to make sure the sensors and monitor function properly.
• The hydrogen gas detector is alarming in the fresh air where a sensor has potentially drifted past a set-point.

Calibration and bump testing are mandatory since imminent injury or death will occur if the device fails. Take it very seriously. 

Also, it is prudent to have a calibration schedule that the owner or employees follow strictly. See gas calibration here.

How Do I Take Care of My Hydrogen Detector?

• Store your hydrogen gas detector at normal room temperature - about 70F with 50%RH (well within operating specifications).
• Store it away from electromagnetic or magnetic sources, such as phones.
• Store it in a clean environment with no dust or particles.
• Store away from any exhaust gas, concentrated vapors, or harsh chemicals.
• Clean the casing of your detector with a damp cloth.
• Store it in a stable place where there are no vibrations or continuous shaking.

How Do I Properly Use a Hydrogen Gas Detector?

When operating a hydrogen gas detector, there are some important tips to consider. Be smart, read your product manual, and keep these tips in mind:

• Turn ON the hydrogen gas monitor in fresh air. 
• Ensure the hydrogen gas monitor is within its calibration period.
• Ensure the hydrogen gas monitor has been bump tested and validated as operational. 
• Check alarm set-points. Set your alarms as desired (some units may not have adjustable alarms).
• If performing analytical measurements, keep the unit stationary. Ensure humidity and temperature are also tracked and are as constant as possible.
• If using a pump, turning the pump ON/OFF will change the pressure and may affect readings. Take data point readings when the pump is either ON/OFF for 60 seconds, so no erroneous data points are taken because of a "pressure change."
• Place your detector in the proper location. After 60 seconds, take your data (i.e., hydrogen gas concentration displayed on the digital display).

Is Hydrogen Gas Explosive?

Yes, it is. Hydrogen is flammable at concentrations from 4% to 75% in air.

Therefore, hydrogen gas has a lower explosive limit (LEL) of 4% - this means it is too lean to burn.

The upper explosive limits (UEL) is 75% - this means it is too rich to burn.

Typically, for gas detectors, 10% LEL is the first alarm for hydrogen gas. 10% of 4% = 0.4%, which translates to 4,000ppm. 

For %LEL and ppm conversion, see here.

Hydrogen Gas Sensor Selection 

When it comes to choosing a hydrogen gas leak detector, one important consideration is the sensitivity and detection range. Sensitivity determines the level of accuracy and effectiveness of the detector in identifying and measuring hydrogen gas leaks, while detection range determines the minimum and maximum concentration levels that the detector can measure.

Sensor Technology	Sensitivity	Detection Range
Catalytic Bead Sensors	Low sensitivity %LEL	0-100% LEL (Lower Explosive Limit)
Solid-State Sensors	Medium sensitivity	0-100% LEL
Electrochemical Sensors	High sensitivity with ppm resonsivity	0-10,000 ppm (parts per million)

Final Words

Hydrogen (H2) gas detectors are essential safety devices that accurately measure H2 concentration in the air. With a lower explosive limit (LEL) of 4% volume, hydrogen is a highly flammable gas that poses significant risks in various industries. The refining, fertilizer, battery storage, and charging sectors are the largest markets for hydrogen gas detectors, where they are used for personal protection, continuous monitoring, checking H2 accumulation, and identifying leaks. These compact and affordable devices, costing less than $400, provide real-time measurements and alerts when hydrogen levels exceed safe thresholds. By following a comprehensive guide, users can determine the most suitable hydrogen gas detector for their specific application, ensuring optimal safety and protection against the dangers associated with hydrogen gas leaks and accumulation.

About The Author Dr. Kos Galatsis ("Dr.Koz") is the President of FORENSICS DETECTORS, where the company operates from the scenic Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles, California. He is a subject matter expert on gas sensor technology, gas detectors, gas meters, and gas analyzers. He has been designing, building, manufacturing, and testing toxic gas detection systems for over 20 years. Every day is a blessing for Dr. Koz. He loves to help customers solve their unique problems. Dr. Koz also loves spending time with his wife and his three children going to the beach, grilling burgers, and enjoying the outdoors. Read more about Forensics Detectors here. Email:  drkoz@forensicsdetectors.com Phone: +1 424-341-3886