9 Best Infrared Thermometers | Technical Review of Infrared Thermometers by Expert | Complete Buyer’s Guide 2022
What is the best infrared thermometer? To begin with, you need to decide what type of infrared thermometer you want to use: a gun-style one or a medical one. Gun-style devices can measure a wide temperature range but focus only on surface temperatures.
The medical thermometers measure the temperature of your temporal artery blood, which is equal to that of your body. While being very accurate, medical infrared thermometers handle a narrower range of temperatures than the gun-style models and need to be held closer to the skin. A good example of this type is the Withings Thermo – Smart Temporal Thermometer made by a trusted European producer.
Best digital thermometer for adults & children
This versatile device is equally suitable for babies, children, and adults. The product is FSA-eligible and can be covered by your Flexible Spending Account plan. Clinically validated, this thermometer offers high precision and a durable battery. It features 16 infrared sensors and a color-coded fever indicator. Measurements will sync automatically with your smartphone so that you could get advice in the app.
Another trusted manufacturer is Braun. The ThermoScan 5 Ear Thermometer measures the infrared heat generated by the eardrum and surrounding tissue, and it can safely be used to measure the temperature with newborns.
The Braun No Touch Plus Forehead Digital Thermometer (thermometer gun) is suitable for when your child is sleeping. It features an ultra-sensitive sensor and optical system. You can trust the accuracy of Braun non-contact and forehead thermometer gun with clinically proven accuracy.
Trusted Manufacturers of Medical-Grade Infrared Thermometers
When choosing your infrared thermometer, make sure that it is made by a trustworthy brand-name company to get a truly reliable device. Among the most trusted brands, Withings is to be highlighted.
If you have your heart set on European manufacturers, go with the Withings brand. This is a consumer electronics company founded in France in 2008 by technology experts. Eight years after its establishment, Withings was acquired by Nokia. With headquarters in Issy-les-Moulineaux, it now has offices in the USA and Hong Kong. Along with medical-grade thermometers, Withings offers blood pressure monitors, advanced sleep trackers, highly accurate smart scales, award-winning hybrid smartwatches, and custom solutions to professionals. The company is good at innovation, with one of its achievements being the creation of the world’s first connected blood pressure monitor. All Withings devices that provide medical data are FDA-cleared.
How accurate are infrared thermometers?
There are several things to consider when choosing your medical infrared thermometer. The first and most important one is accuracy, which is stated by the manufacturer. The accuracy of a quality infrared thermometer is approximately 0.5°F and depends on the components used. And yet, this characteristic may also depend on ambient temperature, the presence of other electronic devices, and such factors as sweat and skin creams. Some infrared thermometers are more reliable than others.
Another essential feature is emissivity, which is the amount of infrared energy the device can put out at a time. In infrared thermometers, this value ranges from 0.00 to 1.00. The higher the emissivity, the more organic materials your thermometer can read. Medical thermometers have emissivity set at 0.98, which is ideal for measuring the temperature of human skin.
Braun IRT6020 ThermoScan 5 Ear Thermometer by Amazon.co.uk
- To use this product a Lens Filter has to be placed on the probe-tip--see Owner Manual linked below
- Clinically tested thermometer with large front panel display to see temperature while measuring
- Patented Exact Temp feedback system confirms in seconds that the thermometer is in the correct position and an accurate temperature reading has been taken
Braun No Touch Plus Forehead Digital Thermometer by KRR STORE
- No touch mode suitable for when your child is sleeping
- Proximity sensor to help you find the right distance for measurement (up to 5 cm)
- Backlight enables reading in the darkness;Unique on-screen positioning system that confirms proper distance for taking temperature and gentle guidance light that directs you for accurate aiming
Products with 5 star rating
When Do You Need a Wall-Mounted Infrared Thermometer?
Designed specifically for measuring body temperatures in public spaces and workplaces, wall-mounted infrared forehead thermometers can operate without human participation. They are mounted to the wall with the included adhesive patches so that people could scan themselves when needed.
It comes with double-sided adhesive tape but can also be mounted with the use of brackets or hooks. Powered via a USB cord or from a rechargeable battery, this device can be installed in schools, hospitals, cinemas, offices, and other locations. The thermometer detects body temperature up to 4 inches away and shows results on the display in an instant. Made with Bluetooth capabilities, it allows you to track all temperature readings.
Buyer’s Guide
Measure the temperature of your roast meat, electrical equipment, automotive, or other surfaces from a distance with an infrared thermometer. It provides a fast and easy way of measuring the temperature without touching the item you are measuring. And, with the auto shut off feature, you can use the device with minimal supervision. The following discussion elaborates on the uses of this device. We’ll cover how infrared thermometers work, different types of IR thermometers, their pros and cons, and usage tips. We’ll review TOP Best Infrared Thermometers to make choosing one less of a hassle.
Infrared thermometers are used in different industries and work environments to determine the temperature of objects from a distance. The distance can range from an inch to miles. These thermometers are used in areas where other kinds of thermometers can't be used, e.g., electrical circuits, mechanical equipment, building systems, moving objects, and objects in a vacuum for time-sensitive readings.
What You Will Learn from This Guide:
- Top Infrared Thermometers
- 1. Forehead and Ear Thermometer,No Contact Digital Infrared Professional Thermometer
- 2. Forehead Thermometer for Body, Surface and Room-Temporal
- 3. Infrared Thermometer -50°C ~ 380°C Non-Contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer
- 4. Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun MESTEK
- 5. Dual Temperature Infrared/Thermocouple Thermometer
How it Works
These devices measure infrared radiation to determine the temperature of an object.
Infrared radiation is one type that occurs within the electromagnetic spectrum; other types include visible light, x-rays, and microwaves.
It is based on the concept of blackbody radiation, which means that any object whose temperature is above zero has molecules moving around. Higher temperatures cause the particles to move faster thus, emitting infrared radiation. Increased temperature leads to a higher emission of the infrared radiation, which then begins to emit visible light. It explains the change in the color of metals when they are extremely hot.
Other theories state that infrared thermometers measure the gradient in radiation between objects. For example, if there is a difference in temperature between an object and the surrounding environment, it is estimated and used as the temperature. As such, if the object has the same temperature as the environment, the net radiation is zero.IR thermometers measure this gradient to determine the temperature of the object and display the results.
The IR light can be absorbed, focused, or reflected. Handheld thermometers use a lens to focus the light from the object to the detector (thermopile). The sensor absorbs radiation and converts it to heat then to electricity. The electricity is then sent to the detector using it to determine the temperature of the object. More electricity is produced as the object becomes hotter.
Uses of IR Thermometers
Professional Applications
HVAC:
- Perform energy audits to identify infiltration and leaks
- Identify insulation problems
- Manufacturing
- Monitor manufacturing process
- Monitor high-temperature substances like metals and plastics
Automotive:
- Testing the thermostat to diagnose overheating
- Identify poor performance of A/C systems
Medical:
- Measure the body temperature for fever (measures the temperature through the ear)
Food:
- Avoid cross-contamination
- Check the quality of food and safety
- Monitor temperature at critical control points when goods are reheated, cooked, cooled, and served
General Applications:
- Check door and window frames for leakages
- Determine the temperature of freezers and refrigerators
- Identify insulation problems in a home
How to Use an Infrared Thermometer
It's pretty easy; you only need to fix the batteries in their compartment and activate the desired temperature unit (Celsius or Fahrenheit).
Turn on the device by pressing the power button and aim the gun to the surface you want to measure the temperature.
Be sure to stand close to the object or within the DS ratio indicated by the manufacturer for accurate readings.
Pull the trigger to observe the reading on the digital display on the thermometer.
Types of Infrared Thermometers
The construction of infrared thermometers comprises an optical system to collect energy, an emissivity adjustment that matches the calibration of the thermometer to characteristics of the object and a detector (thermopile).
Modern infrared thermometers mimic the same concept, but numerous advances in technology have introduced sophisticated devices to widen the scope of their applications. As such, detectors are designed to match specific applications to improve performance.
Here are the different types of infrared thermometers.
- Spot infrared thermometers: these kinds display the temperature on a particular spot on a surface.
- Infrared scanning systems: the devices scan larger areas and are used in manufacturing processes that involve conveyors, e.g., when continuous piles of objects move along a large sheet of metal from an oven.
- Infrared thermal imaging cameras: these kinds use cameras to measure the temperature at different points over a larger area to create two-dimensional images called thermograms. The technology applied to the devices is more hardware and software intensive compared to regular infrared thermometers.
What to Look for When Buying Infrared Thermometers
- Emissivity
It refers to the efficiency with which an object absorbs or emits infrared energy. The values range from 0.0 to 1.0.
Objects that have an emissive value of 1.0 are called perfect emitters as they radiate 100% energy.
An efficient infrared thermometer should factor in this feature based on the type of object in question because various surfaces emit radiation differently.
- Speed and Accuracy
Effective IR thermometers deliver temperatures fast and accurately.
Advanced versions factor is adjustable emissivity for more accurate readings. Experts allow a +1% margin of error when using professional IR thermometers and +2% for less expensive devices.
- The Temperature Range
The primary factor here is whether the thermometer is used for professional or home-based applications.
For regular use, e.g., around the house, a temperature range of -58 to 1022 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. However, in advanced applications like in manufacturing processes, the temperature range should be more than 1487 degrees Fahrenheit.
- DS Ratio
The distance to spot ratio affects the accuracy of the readings from the thermometer. The rate is determined by the size of the area being measured in relation to the distance.
For example, if an object has a D/S ratio of 10:1 and it is 5 inches in size, the maximum distance the thermometer can accurately measure the temperature is within 50 inches.
Distances larger than that range will be inaccurate as the IR thermometer will include the temperature of the surrounding objects and surfaces. Most IR thermometers in the market have a DS ratio of 12:1.
- Warranty
A warranty is a good indication of a high-quality IR thermometer. The period can range from 90 days to 10 years based on the manufacturer.
Top Infrared Thermometers
1. Forehead and Ear Thermometer,No Contact Digital Infrared Professional Thermometer
This medical IR thermometer is ideal for all ages. It has a dual mode thus, can function as a forehead and ear thermometer for kids older than three months.
The thermometer delivers temperature readings in just eight seconds, and users can view a maximum of 20 previous readings if monitoring the temperature of a child.
The LCD flicker alarm makes this device even more efficient as it alerts the user using seven short, rapid rings when the temperature exceeds 37.5 degrees Celsius. Compared to other thermometers that use mercury, the Ankovo is entirely safe as the glass does not break.
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Forehead and Ear Thermometer: Check the current price
2. Forehead Thermometer for Body, Surface and Room-Temporal
This three-in-one thermometer is designed to measure the body temperature, that of a room, and surfaces. If you are taking the temperature of a child, you don't need to disturb him as you can accurately do it within a distance of 3-5 cm from his forehead. It is fitted with a 3-color changing LCD screen to help the user determine if the subject is normal, has a high temperature, or is just medium.
Equinox thermometer uses infrared technology to deliver instant results, and the built-in alarm system alerts you if a fever is detected. It also has a backlight that turns red and makes a sound if the child has a high fever. Additionally, it displays up to 32 previous readings, so you can monitor the progress of your little one.
Users can also change the settings from Celsius to Fahrenheit (and vice versa) with a simple click of the button. Medical experts say that the Equinox Digital Non-Contact Infrared Forehead Thermometer is the most accurate for taking temperature readings of a child. It measures the body temperature within a range of 32-42.9 degrees Celsius and 0-60 degrees for surface temperature.
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Forehead Thermometer for Body: Check the current price
3. Infrared Thermometer -50°C ~ 380°C Non-Contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer
Its response time is almost instant, i.e., 15 seconds within a Distance to Spot ratio of 12:1. For more accurate results, the distance between the object and the thermometer should be 36 cm/ 14.17 inches.
The HL Lasergrip 1080 Non-Contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun is designed for various applications such as home repairs, measuring the surface temperatures of objects beyond the freezing and boiling point, barbequing, cooking, and when performing auto maintenance.
A nine-volt battery powers it and the low-battery indicator should alert the user when it needs to be replaced. Note that the lasergrip 1080 does not measure the internal temperature of the object thus, it can't be used to obtain the temperature of animals and humans.
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4. Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun MESTEK
This IR thermometer combines the most recent temperature sensor technology with the advanced Frensel lens to deliver accurate readings with only +/- 1.5% margin of error in just 0.5 seconds.
Its wide temperature range allows application on auto maintenance, cooking, home repair, and barbecuing, among other household tasks. T
he Super IR5D has a built-in laser that delivers instant results displayed in the form of Max/Min/Average/Diff values on the LCD screen.
The buzzer alarm beeps immediately it attains the high/low temperature set by the user. The thermometer is powered by a 15mAh battery that lasts 6-12 months. And, with its eight-second auto-off feature, the battery is likely to last longer.
The package comes with a free meat thermometer that has a food-grade stainless steel construction. It measures the inner temperature of food within a range of -50-300 degree Celsius.
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MESTEK: Check the current price
5. Dual Temperature Infrared/Thermocouple Thermometer
The thermometer is designed for culinary applications and has a dual function unit that allows users to determine the internal temperature of meat and obtain surface temperatures using the built-in infrared feature.
As such, users can view the temperature of the surfaces before searing the meat or putting the pizza on a stone.
It has a temperature range of -67-482 degrees Fahrenheit. The margin of error is pretty small, i.e., +/-2 for 14 degrees Fahrenheit and +/-1% for 149 degrees Fahrenheit.
This thermometer is fitted with three LED lights that signal when the food is cold, hot, or has a medium temperature.
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Dual Temperature Infrared/Thermocouple Thermometer: Check the current price
9 Best-Selling Infrared Thermometers Comparative Table
Infrared Thermometer Digital Thermometer for Adults IDOIT No Touch Thermometer for Fever, 2 in 1 Medical...
- 【Attention❗❗❗】The only authorized seller of IDOIT thermometer is Idoit EU, please confirm that the seller's name is Idoit EU before purchasing. Our Infrared Thermometer comes with the latest infrared measurement technology, so the temperature can be obtained remotely without physical contact. Provide greater protection for you and your family.
- 👪 【Easy to use】 The infrared thermometer just press a button, in less than 1 second, we will achieve a fast and accurate temperature measurement, because its minimum error range is only ± 0.1 degrees.
- 👪 【Alarm System】 The latest digital thermometer intelligent fever recognition system with 3 backlights. Green means normal body temperature, orange means mild fever, and red means high fever.
- 👪 【LED display】 Front thermometer with the help of LCD display, battery indicator and silent mode, even in the dark, you can easily get the measurement values in 0.5 seconds through one-button service.
- 👪 【Memory function and automatic shutdown】 The infrared thermometer has a memory function that can store 10 sets of temperature data, which can help you record better. The thermometer will automatically turn off after 30 seconds of inactivity to save power.
Thermometer for Adults, Non Contact Ear and Forehead Thermometer, Digital Infrared Thermometer for Fever with LCD...
- ♥【Quick and Simple Operation】 ANKOVO digital baby thermometer take temperature less than 1 second, one button design to measure ear, forehead, room, milk, water and object temperature. And toggle switch Celsius (℃) and Fahrenheit (℉).
- ♥【Multiple Functions】 Temporal thermometer comes with a fever alarm system, display green/orange/red to indicate fever (Green for normal, orange for light fever, red for high fever). 35 sets of memories and easy to recall. Auto shut-down and power saving.
- ♥【Reliable and Accurate】 Our forehead thermometer comes with a German Hyman thermoelectric reactor infrared temperature sensor, build in ambient temperature compensation sensor, and a precision microprocessor. After thousands of clinical repeated tests, the measurement results are accurate ±0.2℃/±0.4℃ (Ear / Forehead ).
- ♥【Friendly Design】 The thermometer has a non-slip design, and LCD display is clear and easy to read, the display can be used at night without in the light.
- ♥【What you can get】1 * Infrared thermometer, 2 * AAA batteries, 1 * User manual,1 * Storage pouch.
konjac Infrared Thermometer, Non-Contact Thermometer, Digital Thermometer with LCD Display, Temperature...
- 【Non-contact measurement】 Within the measurement distance of 5-8 cm, press the measurement button of the infrared thermometer and the result will be displayed on the screen in 1s. Avoid any physical contact between people, fully protect yourself and your family.
- 【2 Measurement Modes】 The infrared thermometer is mainly used to measure the temperature of babies or adults on the forehead. It also allows to obtain the temperature of the surface of any object. This forehead thermometer can be freely switched between the two measurement modes according to your needs. The measurable range of body temperature is 32 ℃ to 42 ℃, and the measurable range of object temperature is 0 ℃ -93 ℃. You can also change the unit of measurement ℃ / ℉ according to your habits.
- 【Fever alarm system】 When the measured temperature reaches a certain value, the color of the screen will change. Green means normal and the next measurement can be taken; Orange means slight fever warning, pay attention to body temperature; When the screen turns red, the thermometer alarm sounds (beep-beep-beep-beep), consult a doctor
- 【Smart memory function】 Automatically saves the last 10 measurements after each measurement, easily captures recent changes in body temperature. The LCD screen allows you to easily read readings even in the dark. Automatically shuts off within 30 seconds after use
- 【Guarantee】: If you have any questions during use, please contact our store in time. We will give you a satisfactory solution.
Infrared Thermometer Non-Contact Digital Laser Temperature Gun Color Display -58℉~1112℉(-50℃~600℃) Adjustable...
- ►【HIGH ACCURACY】 Combining the latest temperature sensor technology and advanced Fresnel lens, this instrument reads values of high accuracy up to ±2% in only 0.5s ;The adjustable emissivity is 0.1-1.0, which can measure the surface temperature of different objects more accurately.
- ►【PRECISE POSITIONING】Built-in red laser for precisely aiming, accurately find the measurement target; Color large screen display, clear reading. The distance to spot ratio is 12:1, which means you can measure the target at a longer distance. For the best accuracy, the thermometer should be 14 in/ 36 cm away from the object.
- ►【MORE APPLICABLE FUNCTIONS】This infrared thermometer accurately test the temperature during -58℉~1112℉(-50℃~600℃); Toggle between Celsius/Fahrenheit measurements as needed; has a LCD backlight so you can view the temperatures even in the dark; Auto power off function saves you battery power.
- ►【 FREE MEAT THERMOMETER】Can measure the internal temperature range: -50 °C to +300 °C / -58°F to +572°F, fast reading, large-screen LCD display, 304 stainless steel probe, high precision (± 1 ° C / ° F), it can be used for home cooling or for cooking, measuring heating food or daily use. 15 minutes turns off automatically.
- ►【FAMILY BEST GIFT】 Free meat thermometer Can measure the internal temperature range: -50 °C to +300 °C / -58°F to +572°F. Use two thermometers together, it is the best culinary aid for cooks and gourmets, providing better assisted living for everyday life. We provide Lifelong after-sales service and return for a full refund within 30 days.
Straame No Touch Infrared Forehead Thermometer | Thermometer Suitable for Baby and Adult | Use with Instant Read...
- Power-2*AAA Batteries (Not included).
- Easily Modes Switch: The Forehead Thermometer Is Designed For All Ages, Baby, Adults, And Elders. It Is Not Just For Thermometer Forehead But Also The Surface Thermometer. Press And Hold The Set Button For 3 Seconds, Then Press The “Memo” Button Or The “Mode” Button To Switch Between ℃ and ℉.
- Fever Notification: Thermometer For Fever With A High-Temperature Alert, Quickly Prompting Abnormal Body Temperature. And It Stores 50 Measurements To Compare Body Temperature Changes. You Can Trace Your Temperature Easily.
- LCD Display: Digital Thermometer With Big LCD Screen Displays Sharp Readings. Instant Read Thermometer With Mute/Un-mute Mode; It Is A Good Infant Thermometer For Using In The Night. You Do Not Need To Worry About Waking Up Your Baby.
- No Touch Forehead 1-5CM: The Gap Between The Thermometer And The Forehead Must Be 1-5 cm. Non-Contact Thermometer, It Is Secure And Hygiene. It Is More Beneficial Than Standard Mercury Thermometer And Touch Thermometer.
Vibeey Thermometer for Adults, Digital Non-Contact Forehead Infrared Thermometer for Baby and Adults,Instant...
- 【Non-contact Measurement】: Non contact infrared technology reads from forehead with no physical contact. A measuring distance between 5 to 8 cm makes the measuring process safer.
- 【Multifunctional Measurement】: You can use this thermometer to measure the temperature of adults and babies, or various objects such as milk, water or room. This thermometer can be switched between Celsius or Fahrenheit readings
- 【Convenient Design】: Clear display and operation buttons make the thermometer easy to use. The backlight display is convenient for night use and temperature measurement. With a comfortable handle and made of small size, you can take it everywhere.
- 【Quick and Accurate Readings】: Get accurate readings quickly within 1 second and the measurement result truly reflects temperature. Without any operation, it will automatically shut down after about 20 seconds, which plays a role of low power consumption.
- 【Reliable Thermometer】: 3 colors of green, orange, red temperature display. There will be an instant beeper in case of abonormal temperature. Press “Mode” to switch measuring models.
Non-Contact Infrared Forehead Electronic Thermometer Digital Thermometer Accurate and Fast Measurement with Three...
- Non Contact Thermometer : The product supports non-contact measurement, which greatly improves safety, it can quickly measure the target temperature, and perform intelligent analysis and processing. [NOTE : PLEASE BUY GENUINE THERMOMETER FROM ARINC UK].
- Quick Temperature Measurement : It measures the accurate temperature within seconds. The product supports one-button temperature measurement.
- Multi-Function : The thermometer is designed for all ages and also for object. And it has Color LCD, Auto shut-down and power-saving functions.
- Color Display : When using, GREEN backlight digital shows temperature at the healthy range; Yellow means to be notice; Red indicates fever. Backlight big screen design, easy reading, no need to turn on the lights at night can also be relaxed.
- Accuracy & Range : Reading Temperature ≤0.1S; Measurement Deviation ≤ ± 0.4℉. Measurement Range:89.6℉-109.2℉( Body), 32℉-212℉(Objects); Measurement Distance: 1.2-2 IN;
Carevas Digital Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gauge Object Non Contact Temperature Measurement Device 4...
- [High Precision Infrared Thermometer]: temperature measurement mode: 32C-43℃; Object temperature range: 0-100 ℃. Within 1-15cm measuring distance, safe, clean, stable and with reliable performance.
- [Non-Contact&Target Quicker]: This kind of temperature measurement is not like a traditional thermometer, it will not contact during temperature measurement. Press the measurement button of the infrared thermometer and the result will be displayed on the screen in 1s. It is fast and there is no need to wait.
- [Warranty]: If there are any problems, please contact our store in time. We will give you a satisfactory solution. Thank you for your understanding and welcome next time.
- [Setting Mode]: Press SET button for 3 seconds, enter the setting mode. F1: Switch Celsius and Fahrenheit by + and - (℃ to ℉). F2: Set the high-temperature value, when the display turns red. The default is 37.5℃. F3: Measurement tolerance compensation, 0.1 per step. F4: Sound on and off. The latest 99 measurement data can be stored (press the + and - button to check ).
- [Temperature Range] : 32-43℃. LCD cannot display the value, if it is lower than 32 ° C or higher than 43 ° C, the LCD will not display the data and will display "Lo" or "Hi". ≤32 ℃ Shows “Lo” for "Low Temperature"; 32.0-37.4 ℃ "Green Light" for "Measured Value"; 37.5-38.0 ℃ "Yellow Light" for "Attention Temperature "; 38.1-43.0 ℃ "Red Light" for "Fever Temperature "; > 43.0 ℃ Shows “Hi” for "High Temperature".
Benkeg Digital Infrared Forehead Thermometer LCD IR Thermometer Handheld Non-Contact Thermometer with Fever Alarm...
- Non-contact Forehead Thermometer: just aim towards your forehead and push the trigger, 2s fast measurement, no touch measurement ensures safety operation.
- LCD Display with 3 Colors Backlight: the backlight color will various according to the measured temperature, green backlight for normal temperature, orange for paying attention of your temperature, and red for fever alarm.
- Compact & High Precision: light-weighted portable thermometer adopts with advanced infrared temperature sensor that has stable and reliable performance.
- Dual Mode Switchable: with body mode and surface temp. mode to measure the temperature of human and objects.
- Wide Applications: applicable to all groups of people, and can be used in home, office, school, shopping center, and more.
FAQ
The device only measures infrared radiation and does not release it. However, thermometers that have built-in lasers may be harmful when used on delicate areas like the eyes. As such, experts advise using non-laser models for medical applications for safety.
When you have installed the battery, initiate the trigger system to turn the device on or off. Most wireless thermometers have an automatic shut-off feature that turns the unit off after some time (usually 7-15 seconds).
The thermometers can be calibrated using an infrared comparator cup. Experts advise calibrating one temperature more for enhanced accuracy. If you can't access an infrared comparator cup, you can use an ice bath as it has a temperature of 0.0 degrees Celsius.
Accuracy depends on the model and the brand of the IR thermometer, as well as its application. Most manufacturers provide a range within which the accuracy lies, but they can only be met if the item has a known emissivity of 0.95. That's why it is essential to buy a thermometer that allows emissivity adjustment for accuracy.
You can measure the temperature of a baby by:
- Placing the thermometer on the rectal opening (it is the most accurate as thermometer displays the slightest change in the kid's temperature)
- Measuring the temperature from the eardrum; use tympanic thermometers and hold it in the right position for accurate reading. Standard digital thermometers do not apply in this case
- Placing the device in the armpit; this method is ideal for kids older than three months
- Placing it on the forehead
No, because air does not emit radiation energy and its emissivity is too low to be detected. However, users can determine its temperature by pointing the thermometer at an item that has the same temperature as the air.
Pros and Cons of Infrared Thermometers
Pros:
- Allows measurement of temperatures of hot surfaces from a distance
- Are versatile as they can measure the temperature of moving parts, foods, and in manufacturing applications
- Can detect room temperature, soil temperature, that of pipes and windows
- The device can be mounted a short distance from the hot object for operation for extended periods
- Users can determine the temperature of an object if its emissivity is known
- Can be used to diagnose problems in electrical and mechanical appliances by measuring the temperature on heating points
Cons:
- Does not measure the temperature of liquids and gases
- Accuracy can be affected by dust and high humidity
- IR thermometers only measure the surface temperature and not the internal temperature
- Users may obtain inaccurate readings caused by reflection of radiation from hot objects
- Rapid changes in temperature can affect IR thermometers
Tips & Life Hacks
To get the most accurate readings from the infrared thermometer ensure that:
- The item covers the whole field of view of the thermometer
- Avoid pointing the device at shining surfaces. You can add an electrical insulating tape on the metal surface for more accurate results
- Adopt a perpendicular position with the target surface or item when using the device
Conclusion
Infrared radiation technology in thermometers has certainly made it easy to obtain temperatures of items we could never imagine in the past. Thermometers are now not only limited to medical purposes, but users can determine the hotspot of an oven using the Dual Temperature Infrared/Thermocouple Thermometer or that of auto parts with the Etekcity Lasergrip 1080 Non-Contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun. You just need to purchase a suitable thermometer for the right application.