ELECTRO SYSTEMS GS/3 - User Manual

GS/3 Propane Detector
Self Contained & Easy to
Install in Your Camper or RV!
This self-contained detector is designed specifically for propane (liquified
propane gas or LPG). It sniffs out leaks and warns you of explosive fumes.
Installation is easy. The top contains all the electronics and snaps onto the
back – available in surface-mount (1
3
/16" or 30 mm profile) or flush-mount (0.45"
or 11mm profile) styles.
The green LED indicates the sensor is on and operating. If a leak is detected,
the red LED and horn pulse, warning you to shut off the propane supply,
ventilate the area and correct the problem.
You simply can’t beat this detector for its quick installation, high reliability and
affordable price – and it’s backed by a hassle-free 2 year parts & labor guarantee.
Very slim profile
allows installation
almost anywhere
High output 85 dB
audio alarm
Easy installation – top
snaps onto surface-mount
or flush-mount back
Built in sensor detects
<
25% of Lower
Explosive Level (LEL)
Constant power on –
checking for gas leaks
and ready to warn you
of explosive fumes
Flush-mount shown – also available in surface-mount

Summary

Product Specifications

Key Specifications

Details product size, power requirements, sensitivity level, and alarm output.

Installation Guide

Power Connection

Instructions for connecting the detector to a 12V power supply via fuse or breaker.

Mounting Options

Steps for surface or flush mounting the detector backplate to installation surfaces.

Electronics Connection

Guide for wiring the detector's leads to the power source and insulating connections.

Device Operation

Startup and Normal Use

Explains the initial startup cycle, normal indicator lights, and testing procedures.

Alarm Conditions

Describes how the detector signals gas leaks and the recommended actions.

Troubleshooting Alerts

Details meanings of continuous tones or single pulses indicating faults.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The GS/3 Propane Detector is a self-contained device designed to detect propane (liquefied propane gas or LPG) leaks and warn of explosive fumes in campers and RVs. It is engineered for easy installation and reliable operation, providing a crucial safety measure against gas leaks.

Function Description:

The primary function of the GS/3 Propane Detector is to continuously monitor for the presence of propane gas. It utilizes a built-in sensor that detects gas concentrations below 25% of the Lower Explosive Level (LEL). When propane fumes are detected, the device activates an audible and visual alarm to alert occupants to a potential hazard. The detector operates on constant power, ensuring continuous monitoring for gas leaks.

Upon connecting power, the detector undergoes a start-up cycle. The green LED, labeled "Power," illuminates, and the red LED, labeled "Alarm," along with the horn, will pulse for approximately 5 seconds while the sensor warms up. If no fumes are detected after this period, the red LED and horn will cease, and the green LED will remain on, indicating the detector is active and ready.

If propane fumes are present during start-up, the horn and red LED will continue to pulse. The pulse rate varies with concentration: 60 pulses per minute for concentrations below 25% LEL, and 80 pulses per minute for higher concentrations. If fumes are detected at any time after the start-up cycle, the horn and red LED will immediately begin to pulse. In such an event, users are instructed to shut off the propane supply, ventilate the area, and avoid any sources of ignition (e.g., electric switches, motors, pilot lights, open flames). Once the fumes dissipate, the horn will stop, and the red LED will turn off, signaling a safe atmosphere. The leak should be corrected before resuming propane system operation.

The detector also provides diagnostic signals: a continuous tone indicates a short in the electronics, while a single pulse every 10 seconds signifies a faulty sensor. In either of these cases, the detector should be returned for repair or warranty replacement. It's important to note that other organic vapors, such as paint fumes, solvents, or hair spray, can trigger false alarms. Ventilating the area should resolve such false alarms.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Size: 4.32" High, 3.55" Wide, 1.23" Deep. The exposed depth of the flush-mount version is 0.45".
• Power Requirement: 12VDC @ 86mA.
• Sensitivity: Detects concentrations <25% of Lower Explosive Level (LEL).
• Alarm Output: High output 85 dB audio alarm.
• Profile: Very slim profile, allowing installation almost anywhere.
• Installation: Available in two styles:
  • Surface-mount: 13/16" (30mm) profile.
  • Flush-mount: 0.45" (11mm) profile.
• Power Connection: Requires #18 AWG minimum wiring from a 12-volt battery, protected by a fuse or breaker of no more than 0.5 Amps.
• Polarity Protection: The detector will not be damaged if polarity is accidentally reversed, but it will not function until correctly wired.
• Warranty: Backed by a hassle-free 2-year parts & labor guarantee.

Usage Features:

• Self-Contained Design: All electronics are integrated into the top unit, which snaps onto the backplate, simplifying installation.
• Easy Installation: The device offers straightforward installation options for both surface-mount and flush-mount applications. For surface-mount, a 1/2" D hole is drilled for power lines, and the back is screwed down. For flush-mount, a 3 1/8" (79mm) hole is cut, power lines are fed through, and the back is secured.
• Visual and Audible Alarms: Features a green LED for power/operational status and a red LED coupled with an 85 dB horn for alarm indications.
• Optimal Placement: Due to propane being heavier than air, the detector should be installed with the LEDs facing up, within 6 inches of the floor or the lowest area of the RV to ensure effective detection. It should not be installed higher than 6 inches from the floor.
• Quick Response: Designed for rapid detection and warning of gas leaks.

Maintenance Features:

• Monthly Testing: The detector should be tested monthly by injecting gas (without flame) from a butane lighter into the lower grill for 5 seconds. This ensures proper operation.
• Unrestricted Airflow: The detector requires unrestricted airflow through its grill for reliable operation. Users should ensure the grill is kept free of obstructions.
• Regular Cleaning: The grill should be vacuumed monthly to prevent dust and debris buildup, which could impede airflow and sensor performance.
• Troubleshooting Signals: Specific alarm patterns (continuous tone or single pulse every 10 seconds) indicate internal faults, guiding users to seek repair or replacement.
• False Alarm Management: If false alarms occur due to other organic vapors, ventilating the area should resolve the issue, indicating the detector is functioning correctly and not faulty.

ELECTRO SYSTEMS GS/3 Specifications

General

Brand	ELECTRO SYSTEMS
Model	GS/3
Category	Security Sensors
Language	English