What distance should methane concentration readings be taken from?

Taking methane concentration readings at a distance of around 12 inches is ideal because it allows for accurate detection of gas concentrations while minimizing interference from the surrounding environment. This distance strikes a balance between being close enough to measure the concentration effectively and far enough to avoid potential contamination from immediate surroundings that could skew the measurements.

Measurements taken closer than 12 inches might encounter localized pockets of gas or variable concentrations that do not represent the broader area being monitored. On the other hand, measurements taken too far away could fail to capture the inherent fluctuations in gas concentration due to dilution by air. Therefore, a 12-inch distance provides a reliable point for achieving consistent and meaningful results when monitoring methane levels.