GasAlertQuattro Troubleshooting During Operation

This is an overview of some of the most common issues during operation for the GasAlertQuattro. For a more detailed and in-depth analysis, please refer to the troubleshooting guide beginning on page 36 of your owner’s manual.

An Abnormal Gas Reading is Detected After Startup

In most cases, the monitor is working correctly and is actually detecting gas. If you know this is not the case, a sensor may need to be calibrated. Calibrations are recommended at least every 180 days to keep sensors accurate. Even in that interval, sometimes sensors can do odd things like display a negative value for a gas. If a calibration does not solve the issue, the sensor that is acting up likely needs to be replaced. Any newly installed sensor should be calibrated before the monitor is sent back into the field. Toxic and LEL sensors can take about five minutes to stabilize while oxygen sensors can take up to thirty minutes.

Pushbutton Responses Disabled

Normally, a lack of pushbutton response will indicate that the battery is in a critically low state. Change the batteries or charge the monitor if you have the rechargeable version. If the pushbutton still doesn't respond after a few minutes, you may need to upgrade the firmware or have it repaired.

Inaccurate Measurement of Gases

Accurate gas readings require an accurate calibration. The most common cause of inaccurate readings are faulty or out-of-date calibrations. The default calibration mixture for the GasAlertQuattro is: 100 PPM Carbon Monoxide, 25 PPM Hydrogen Sulfide, 50% LEL Methane, and 18.0% Oxygen. Check to make sure the calibration gas cylinder has not expired and matches the expected concentrations. The filter could also be clogged with dirt or contaminants and need to be changed. The owner's manual describes how to change the filters out.

The Unit Will Not Enter Into Alarm Mode

The monitor will not enter alarm mode during a calibration. If you are not currently calibrating the monitor and it fails to enter alarm mode, you will need to check the alarm setpoints. You can view and change the setpoints with the free FleetManager II software. You will need a MicroDock II or USB Link cable (GA-USB1-IR) to configure the monitor.

An Alarm Sounds for No Apparent Reason

This could be due to the actual presence of a target gas. Use the pushbutton to review the peak exposure to confirm. Like many problems, it can usually be solved with a calibration. If a calibration does not help, note which sensor fails and replace it.

For more detailed scenarios, please refer to pages 36 and 37 of your owner’s manual.

The LCD Screen “Freezes”

The most common cause for an LCD screen to stop functioning on your detector is if an external power supply was been connected to the detector for more than 24 hours. You should cycle down the monitor by turning it off and then back on. Should it not be turned off and on, the screen may freeze as a result. Remember that an external power supply (GA-PA-1-NA) should never be used in an environment that is known (or suspected) to contain hazardous gases.

Charging Indicator Light Does not Activate while Charging

This can happen when the battery is close to empty. If the indicator light does not turn on when it is plugged in, charge the battery for eight hours. The light should turn on once the battery pack is fully charged. If it still does not come on and the battery will not accept a charge, the pack will need to be replaced.

More troubleshooting information on these issues can be found in the owner's manual.