Gas piping leaks - Soap solution versus handheld gas detector? Recommendations?

The detector is good for localizing the leak, the soap solution is good for pinpointing it. I use a spray bottle with 10 to 1 soap to water for finding leaks.

Either will work, but because of the possibility of drafts I don't fully "trust" the gas 'sniffer' method.

I use a solution of DAWN dish washing Liquid [about 2 tablespoons to 5 or 6 ounces of tap water in a 10 to 12 ounce container ( usually a clean #303 food can for me)]. I then use a 1 inch paintbrush to violently stir the mixture to a froth of thick bubbles.

I then generously apply a wet/juicey layer of the soap bubbles to all joints, including all valves and valve stems, shaft packing nuts, etc. Make SURE there are no 'holidays,' missed areas, and that ALL potential leak sites are well wetted with the test solution.

Do not get in a big hurry, but do each possible leak point one at a time, and observe for at least 30 seconds to a minute. I mentally note any leaks, and go back a 2nd or 3rd time just to be sure I haven't missed any leaks.

If there is a leak present, it will be indicated by 'motion' in the bubble layer, creation of new / smaller bubbles, AND the 'leak' bubbles will be much smaller, and a more compact 'blob' at the leak site.' Also, the 'new,' leak bubbles will appear 'whiter' than the old bubbles applied with the brush.

It is also a good idea to 'soap test' the entire pressure guage as the leak could be there.

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Gas piping leaks - Soap solution versus handheld gas detector? Recommendations?

System won't hold 10 psi pressure even for 15 minutes. All valves are open with appliance stubs capped closed. Test gauge held pressure ok on small section of pipe to prove test procedure works on a good system. Clean black pipe and fittings assembled with "RectorSeal" pipe thread...