MQ-5 Gas Sensor Module for Arduino and DIY Projects
Semiconductor Gas Detection Sensor for LPG, Methane, and Propane
The MQ5 gas sensor module is a costeffective, low-power gas detection device ideal for home and industrial safety applications . It is highly sensitive to butane, propane, and methane, making it a popular choice for gas leakage alarms and monitoring systems [citation:1][citation:3]. The sensor uses tin dioxide (SnO2), which has low conductivity in clean air, but increases as combustible gas concentrations rise [citation:1].
Reliable Gas Detection - Sensitive to LPG, methane, and propane with fast response times
Dual Output Modes - Provides both analog (AO) and digital (DO) output signals
Operating voltage is 5V DC with a heating element that requires a preheat time for accurate readings [citation:1][citation:4]
Use the on-board potentiometer to adjust the digital output threshold sensitivity [citation:4]
The sensor requires up to 24 hours of preheating for optimal stabilization after power-on [citation:4][citation:12]
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|
| Target Gases | LPG, Methane, Propane, Butane [citation:3][citation:10] |
| Detection Range | 200-10000 ppm [citation:4][citation:9] |
| Operating Voltage | 5V DC [citation:1] |
| Heater Resistance | 31Ω ±10% [citation:12] |
| Output Types | Analog (AO) & Digital (DO) [citation:1] |
| Dimensions | 40x21mm [citation:1] |
= Key Features =
High Sensitivity - Responds to LPG, methane, and propane at low concentrations [citation:1]
Simple Interface - AO provides voltage proportional to gas concentration; DO triggers at a set threshold [citation:1]
Adjustable Sensitivity - The potentiometer sets the digital output threshold [citation:4]
Low Cost A budgetfriendly solution for gas detection projects [citation:3]
= Applications =
- Domestic LPG leak detection and kitchen safety systems [citation:2][citation:8]
- Laboratory gas monitoring and industrial safety [citation:2]
- IoT-based air quality monitoring projects
- Automatic gas valve shutoff systems [citation:8][citation:11]
Reliable Safety Component - Widely used in gas leak detection systems with Arduino [citation:2][citation:6]
Versatile Output Options - Analog signal for variable gas concentration or digital for simple alarm triggering
√ Compatible with Arduino Uno, ESP32, and other 5V logic microcontrollers
√ Includes mounting holes for easy installation in DIY projects
√ On-board power and signal indicators
Troubleshooting
No output:
- Ensure the preheating time is sufficient
- Verify stable 5V power supply
Inconsistent readings:
- Allow sensor to stabilize after power-on
- Avoid exposing to contaminants such as alcohol or smoke, which can affect readings [citation:12]