Best Gas Detectors in the UK: Where to Buy, What to Look For, and How to Keep Your Home Safe

Why gas detectors matter in every UK home

Think of a gas detector as a quiet guardian for your home — it watches for invisible threats that could turn a calm evening into a disaster. In the UK, where homes often use gas boilers, cookers, and heating systems, carbon monoxide and combustible gas leaks are real risks. A reliable detector gives early warnings so you can act fast, protect loved ones, and avoid costly damage. In short: investing in a good gas detector is like buying peace of mind — cheap insurance compared with the worst-case scenarios you don’t want to imagine.

Types of gas detectors you can buy in the UK

Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion. CO detectors are purpose-built to sense this silent killer and trigger an alarm long before concentrations reach dangerous levels. Most home CO alarms are plug-in or battery-powered, and some are combined with smoke detection. Look for models that meet recognised standards so you can trust their readings.

Combustible gas detectors (LPG & natural gas)

Combustible gas detectors sense flammable gases like methane (natural gas) and propane/butane mixtures (LPG). These units are invaluable in kitchens, garages, and near boilers or outdoor gas lines. Some detect a wide range of hydrocarbons, while others target specific gases; think of them as electronic noses that get louder as the concentration rises.

Multi-gas and portable detectors

If you need flexibility — for a tradesperson checking a job site or a homeowner testing multiple rooms — portable multi-gas detectors are ideal. They can measure CO, combustible gases, and sometimes oxygen levels. Battery-powered and handheld, these units are practical for quick checks and professional use, often delivering real-time readouts on a small screen.

Top UK stores to buy gas detectors

Screwfix

Screwfix is a go-to for tradespeople and DIYers, offering a wide range of gas detectors from budget handhelds to professional multi-gas units. You’ll find brands like Honeywell and Testo, and local click-and-collect makes it convenient if you need a detector today rather than tomorrow.

B&Q

B&Q stocks user-friendly CO alarms and combined smoke/CO units that suit most family homes. Their range focuses on easy installation and clear displays, and you’ll often see models with long battery lives and tamper-proof mounting — handy for homes with children or pets.

Argos

Argos caters to shoppers who want quick browsing and same-day pickup. Their selection includes popular consumer brands and affordable CO alarms you can install yourself in minutes. If you prefer shopping by catalogue or collecting locally, Argos is a practical choice.

Wickes

Wickes offers dependable domestic gas detectors and safety accessories geared toward homeowners and renovators. They provide good seasonal deals and product pages that explain basics like battery life and sensor type, helping first-time buyers make straightforward choices.

Toolstation

Toolstation suits professionals searching for rugged, reliable detectors that can handle repeated on-site use. Their selection often includes portable combustible gas detectors and high-accuracy CO meters, making them a strong choice if you need a pro-grade tool.

Homebase

Homebase balances value and variety with CO alarms and some combined units. Their focus is user-friendly models appropriate for bedrooms, living rooms, and garages. If you’re updating a home’s safety setup room-by-room, Homebase provides sensible, wallet-friendly options.

Halfords

Although famous for automotive gear, Halfords also stocks portable gas detectors useful for garages, motorhomes, and vehicle maintenance. If you’re checking for LPG leaks in a caravan or scanning the garage where cars are stored, Halfords can be surprisingly relevant.

Amazon UK

Amazon gives unparalleled variety and user reviews, letting you compare dozens of models quickly. You’ll find everything from cheap single-function alarms to smart, Wi-Fi-enabled detectors. Just take time to read verified reviews and check certifications to separate bargains from false economies.

Robert Dyas

Robert Dyas focuses on home essentials and often stocks trusted consumer CO alarms with simple features and clear instructions. They suit buyers who prefer straightforward, no-fuss devices with decent warranties and a friendly local-store vibe.

What features to look for in a gas detector

Sensor type and detection range

Sensors are the heart of a detector. Electrochemical sensors are common for CO and give accurate readings, while semiconductor sensors often handle combustible gases. Check the sensitivity range — some units alert at lower concentrations for early warning, while others are built to trigger at higher levels for industrial settings.

Power source and battery life

Decide whether you want battery-powered, plug-in, or hard-wired detectors. Battery units offer flexibility and portability; many provide up to 3,000 hours of life or more depending on usage. Plug-in alarms are convenient but may fail in a power cut unless they include battery backup — a feature worth paying for.

Alarms, displays, and smart connectivity

Loudness matters: look for alarms that reach at least 85 decibels at 10 feet so you’ll hear them through closed doors. Digital displays that show concentration in parts per million (ppm) are useful for troubleshooting. Smart detectors with Wi-Fi let you get alerts on your phone and integrate with home automation systems — great if you travel often or manage several properties.

Certifications and safety standards

Always check for appropriate approvals. For CO alarms, BS EN 50291 compliance or equivalent is a must. For combustible gas detectors, look for CE marking and product tests that match UK safety expectations. Certified products are more reliable and easier to trust in an emergency.

Where to install gas detectors (placement guide)

Carbon monoxide placement

CO mixes evenly with room air, so place detectors between sleeping areas and fuel-burning appliances. Mount them about 5 to 6 feet high or per manufacturer instructions — roughly eye level for most adults. Avoid installing CO alarms right next to windows, vents, or fans that might dilute readings. Think of placement like placing a smoke alarm: central and unobstructed gives the best early warning.

Combustible gas placement

Combustible gases have different behaviors: natural gas (methane) rises, so detectors should be mounted near the ceiling about 6 to 12 inches down from the top; LPG (propane/butane) is heavier than air and sinks, so place detectors low to the floor. For kitchens or garages, position detectors near likely leak sources — but not directly above cookers where normal use could trigger false alarms.

Installation and maintenance tips

Simple steps for correct installation

Installation should be quick if you follow the manual. Use the supplied screws or mounting pads, test the unit after fitting, and keep a copy of the instructions in a drawer. If you opt for hard-wired units, a Gas Safe registered engineer is the right choice so wiring and placement meet regulations.

Testing and regular checks

Test alarms weekly using the test button to ensure the sounder works and batteries are doing fine. Replace batteries annually for units without long-life cells, and check expiry dates — many detectors have an operational life of 5 to 7 years. Treat the unit’s end date like a smoke alarm’s expiry; ignore it at your peril.

Cleaning and common mistakes

Keep sensors dust-free with a light vacuum or soft brush; avoid spraying cleaning fluids directly onto them. Don’t paint over alarms or cover them with decorations. Common mistakes include placing alarms too close to heaters, behind curtains, or in dusty environments where false readings can occur.

Budgeting: How much will a good detector cost?

Expect to pay from about £20 for a basic CO alarm up to £150 or more for professional portable multi-gas detectors. Smart Wi‑Fi CO alarms often sit around £60 to £120 depending on features. For household use, a sensible budget is between £30 and £80 per unit — enough to secure certified sensors, decent battery life, and a clear alarm. For trades or industrial needs, professional meters are an investment but can save time and reduce risk.

Brands and models worth considering

Kidde and First Alert

These brands are household names for a reason: they offer reliable consumer CO alarms and combined units with clear labeling and decent warranties. They’re easy to fit, often have battery backup, and are widely available across UK retailers.

Honeywell and FireAngel

Honeywell leans toward professional-quality detectors while FireAngel focuses on home safety with innovations like long-life sealed batteries and smart features. Both appear frequently at national DIY and hardware stores and are trusted for accurate detection.

Testo and Dräger (professional)

For tradespeople and engineers, Testo and Dräger provide pro-grade, portable meters with improved sensitivity and logging functions. These cost more but deliver accuracy and durability for repeated use on site.

How to compare offers and get the best value

Comparison shopping is your friend. Check product pages at big retailers like Screwfix and B&Q, read verified customer reviews on Amazon, and compare specs: sensor type, alarm loudness, warranty length, and certification. Don’t be seduced by the cheapest option; spend a little more for certified units with proven sensors. Also look for bundle deals if you need several alarms — retailers sometimes offer multi-pack discounts that make sense for larger homes.

Common myths and safety notes

There are plenty of myths — for example, that a gas detector can replace regular boiler servicing. It can’t. Detectors warn you of leaks; they do not substitute for professional maintenance. Another myth is that one detector covers the whole house; in reality, multiple detectors in sleeping areas and near appliances provide much better protection. Treat detectors as part of a layered safety plan: good ventilation, routine checks, and professional servicing complete the picture.

Conclusion

Choosing the right gas detector for your UK home comes down to understanding what you need — CO protection, combustible gas detection, or portable multi-gas monitoring — and buying a certified unit from a reputable retailer. Stores like Screwfix, B&Q, Argos, Wickes, Toolstation, Homebase, Halfords, Robert Dyas, and Amazon UK offer a wide range of options for different budgets and needs. Install detectors wisely, test them regularly, and replace them when they reach the end of their service life. Do that, and you’ll have reliable, everyday protection that keeps your home safer and your nights more peaceful.