What Is a Combustion Analyzer Used for After Fire Damage?

After a fire, the air can contain hazardous gases you cannot see or smell. A combustion analyzer is a specialized meter that detects these gases. It primarily measures carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous byproduct of incomplete combustion. It also checks for low oxygen levels and the presence of other combustible gases.

These readings are critical for safety. Before any cleanup begins, the pros need to know if the atmosphere is breathable. High levels of carbon monoxide can cause illness or be fatal in enclosed spaces. The analyzer provides an objective measurement to guide all subsequent safety decisions.

A combustion analyzer takes several specific measurements. The most common is the concentration of carbon monoxide, measured in parts per million. It also measures the percentage of oxygen in the air; levels below 19.5 percent are considered oxygen-deficient and dangerous.

Many devices also measure temperature and atmospheric pressure. Some advanced models can detect multiple gases, including carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Each reading helps paint a complete picture of the post-fire environment's chemical safety profile.

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Levels
• Oxygen (O2) Concentration
• Ambient Air Temperature
• Atmospheric Pressure
• Combustible Gas Presence
• Efficiency of Combustion (if applicable)

If you have experienced a fire, your first call should be to the fire department. After the fire is extinguished and the structure is released to you, contact local water and fire damage restoration pros. They have the training and equipment, like combustion analyzers, to assess hidden dangers safely.

Do not attempt to re-enter or clean the property until a professional evaluation is complete. Soot and chemical residues can be toxic, and structural integrity may be compromised. The pros follow established safety procedures to mitigate all these risks systematically.