Extending equipment lifetime works well, provided the support system still does.
With reliable units, extending their use can be both practical and cost-effective. The challenge is knowing when continued use brings more uncertainty than value.
Gas detectors rarely fail overnight. But as support windows close, spare parts may take longer to source, calibration gas may move from stock to special order, and compatibility with accessories or test tools might begin to decline.
The detector itself may keep working. The question is whether it is still fully supported.
Most manufacturers support their detectors for years after production stops. Discontinuation does not mean immediate disruption. But the further the equipment moves away from active production, the less predictable timelines, availability, and costs become.
Experience shows that as a model nears the end of its lifecycle, specific components gradually become harder to obtain, service windows narrow, and repair costs rise.
Does this mean discontinued models must be replaced immediately? Not at all. It means that you should recognize when continued use brings more uncertainty, and prepare the next step in good time.
BCaution is healthy. You do not need the latest model on board to operate safely. But there is a difference between waiting for proven results and being caught off guard.
Delaying replacement for too long often means less room to plan the transition on your terms. Lead times stretch, workarounds multiply, and in some cases, outdated detectors can create a false sense of security. They might still be operational, but not provide the accuracy you need in critical moments such as emergencies, loading/unloading, or vetting.
More often than not, waiting too long leads to decisions made under pressure, usually when a failure occurs or a part suddenly becomes unavailable. Purchases in that context often end up costing more, and the chosen equipment may not align with your long-term strategy.
That is when stretching the lifetime of equipment stops being efficient and starts becoming expensive.
So when should you start preparing? Three early indicators are worth paying attention to:
You do not necessarily need to act immediately, but staying informed gives you options.
At Bruusgaard, we monitor product lifecycles closely, stay in dialogue with manufacturers, and keep our customers informed when changes are coming. The goal is to make transitions smooth. Not premature, but never forced by sudden gaps in support.
That way, operators can get the full value out of their existing equipment, while staying clear of unsupported territory.
Dependable safety relies on reliable systems, and the best time to plan is before the lifecycle ends.