| Cover | Jan. 30, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 30, 2023 |
| Entity File Number | 000-09587 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Electro-Sensors, Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000351789 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 41-0943459 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | MN |
| Entity Address Address Line 1 | 6111 Blue Circle Drive |
| Entity Address City Or Town | Minnetonka |
| Entity Address State Or Province | MN |
| Entity Address Postal Zip Code | 55343-9108 |
| City Area Code | (952) |
| Local Phone Number | 930-0100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security12b Title | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | ELSE |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
