Best gas leak detector (sniffer) for UK gas engineers (2026)
Electronic combustible gas leak detectors compared on published sensitivity, readout, battery life and UK price.
Quick picks
| If you want | Look at | Why | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lowest price | TPI 725L | Lowest price we could verify in this comparison. | £54.00 inc VAT |
| Most sensitive (stated) | Anton AGM 55 | Detects from 10 ppm methane (retailer listing), with adjustable tick rate and sensitivity. | £137.40 inc VAT |
| Shows a number, not just a beep | TPI 721 | Displays 0–9,999 ppm and %LEL, with 10 ppm sensitivity and a 20-hour battery. | £189.00 inc VAT |
| Hydrogen detection stated | Kane EGD | Kane lists detection levels of 20 ppm hydrogen and 50 ppm methane and propane. | £210.88 inc VAT |
Side by side
| Product | Key specs (published) | Standards / servicing | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPI 725L |
| — | £54.00 inc VAT |
| Anton AGP 45 |
| — | £67.80 inc VAT |
| Kane GLD450plus |
| — | £100.80 inc VAT |
| Anton AGM 55 |
| — | £137.40 inc VAT |
| Kane 700 |
| — | £150.00 inc VAT |
| TPI 721 |
| — | £189.00 inc VAT |
| Kane EGD |
| — | £210.88 inc VAT |
| Sauermann Si-CD3 |
| — | £213.12 inc VAT |
What matters when choosing
A sniffer finds leaks. It does not replace the tightness test
The IGEM/UP/1B Edition 4 procedure in Gas Safe Register ISU 133 still ends with testing all disturbed joints with leak detection fluid. An electronic detector is for tracing where gas is escaping, for example after a failed tightness test, or for checking joints you cannot easily reach with fluid.
Sensitivity
Published sensitivities in this list range from 10 ppm methane (Anton AGM 55, TPI 721) to 50 ppm (Kane GLD450plus, Kane 700). A lower number means it can pick up a smaller concentration. Adjustable sensitivity or tick rate helps you home in on the joint.
Readout
Basic sniffers beep faster as the concentration rises. The TPI 721 and Sauermann Si-CD3 show a reading (ppm, %vol or %LEL), which is useful for comparing joints or noting a figure in your records.
Hydrogen and other gases
Most detectors list methane and other combustible gases. If hydrogen matters to you, check the manufacturer's gas list. In this list, Kane states a 20 ppm hydrogen detection level for the EGD, and CORGI Direct lists the testo 316i (in the Testo 327-1 kit) for methane, propane, butane and hydrogen.
Battery life and reach
Published battery life ranges from 3 hours (TPI 725L) to 20 hours (TPI 721, Sauermann Si-CD3). A gooseneck or 30 cm probe gets behind boilers and under floors.
FAQs
Can an electronic gas leak detector replace leak detection fluid?
No. The IGEM/UP/1B Edition 4 procedure (per Gas Safe Register ISU 133) finishes by testing all disturbed joints with leak detection fluid. Use the electronic detector to help trace leaks.
What sensitivity should a gas sniffer have?
The detectors here list between 10 ppm and 50 ppm methane. Lower numbers detect smaller concentrations. Adjustable sensitivity helps you pinpoint the exact joint.
Which is the cheapest gas leak detector here?
Of the 8 products with a price we could verify, the lowest was the TPI 725L at £54.00 inc VAT (£45.00 ex VAT) from Test-Meter, checked 20 Oct 2026. Cheapest is not always best, so check the points above.
Do gas leak detectors need servicing?
Some makers offer it. Kane lists a £99 ex VAT yearly service for the EGD. Check the manual for your model's sensor checks.
Did GasStack test these detectors?
No. We compare published specifications and prices, checked on the date shown. We have not tested them.
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