Infrared Thermometer: How to Use

An infrared thermometer has many uses. It is an invaluable tool in the kitchen for measuring food and cooking surfaces without any contact. Its ability to take and measure temperature at a distance is also valuable in other industries, which makes it a practical investment. This handy guide on how to use an infrared thermometer is for you if you are new to using this product.

How Do Infrared Thermometers Work?

An infrared thermometer features a handheld device, also known as a thermometer gun, that captures emitted infrared light from any object or surface. The gun processes this information and translates it into temperature readings that are displayed on the screen.

Infrared thermometers work using the concept of thermal radiation. This principle eliminates the need for physical contact when using thermometers to read temperature. It also enables you to take temperature measurements from a distance while maintaining the accuracy of the reading.

The point-and-click concept of using infrared thermometers makes them easy to use and highly convenient. A component known as thermopile, projects infrared light onto an object. The light measures the difference between the infrared light emitted by an object and that of the immediate environment.

An infrared thermometer also converts the radiation reading into heat. That heat is converted into an electric signal that allows the measurement to show up on the thermometer display.

While every infrared thermometer is different, they work in the same way as described above.

Infrared Thermometer: How to Use

Anyone new to using an infrared thermometer might find using one intimidating since its design and function is different from traditional thermometers. However, it is easy and convenient.

Step 1: Turn the thermometer on.

Switch the infrared thermometer on using its power button.

Step 2: Pick your preferred setting.

Some models of infrared thermometer allow you to choose the measurement settings. For example, you can choose to read it in Celsius instead of Fahrenheit (or vice versa).

Step 3: Aim the thermometer gun.

To measure the temperature of an object or surface, hold the thermometer gun approximately six inches from the target. Hold the device still until the temperature reading is shown on the screen.

Step 4: Keep it steady.

Keep the infrared thermometer steady while you hold the trigger. Keeping it still improves the accuracy of the reading to avoid confusing the sensor on which area you are measuring.

With these easy steps, your temperature reading is available in a few seconds.

When to Use Infrared Thermometers?

An infrared thermometer is invaluable for taking temperature readings from a distance. However, it is not the best tool for all forms of checking temperature so you must know when to use one.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that infrared thermometers can measure surface temperature. Therefore, it is not suitable for taking the internal temperature of food.

Knowing the limitations of an infrared thermometer, here are the most common uses for this type of thermometer:

Use it to spot-check the temperature of the liquid and semi-solid food.
Use it to check the surface temperature of pots, pans, and cookware.
Use it to measure the temperature of the oven, grill, or other cooking appliances.
Use it to test the insulation of certain surfaces.
Use it for contactless temperature readings.

Is It Safe to Use Infrared Thermometers on Humans?

Yes. It is possible to use infrared thermometers on humans. Make sure that the thermometer model is FDA-approved before you use it, though. This will ensure that the thermometer is safe to use and can provide accurate readings.

Infrared thermometers are the best way to measure someone’s temperature using contactless methods. In addition, they provide quick readings in just a few seconds.

What is the Temperature Range of Infrared Thermometers?

Infrared thermometers have applications in the kitchen and across various industries. While this type of thermometer is considered advantageous for dealing with high-heat surfaces in the kitchen, it can also withstand intense heat in other industrial applications.

The actual temperature range that infrared thermometer models can read will vary from model to model. Most infrared thermometers can read the temperature at a range of 100 °F(38°C) to 10,000 °F (5,538°C).

Before you use an infrared thermometer for a specific application, it’s essential to check the maximum temperature range. Exposing the temperature to a higher level of heat than it is designed for can cause damage.

Advantages of Infrared Thermometers

You can enjoy several benefits when using infrared thermometers, whether you use them in the kitchen or in industrial applications.

Infrared thermometers can measure objects at a distance. There is no need to come into contact with the object or surface.
It can produce quick readings in a matter of seconds.
It comes with a compact and lightweight design.
It is easy to use and read the temperature even if it’s your first time using the device.
It reduces the risk of cross-contamination when used in food preparation or cooking.
It is easy to clean and maintain.
It is highly versatile since you can use it for various industries and applications, not just for cooking.

It’s important to remember that the above benefits come as a result of using the infrared thermometer correctly. Take note of the best practices for using this tool to ensure the accuracy of readings. For example, you need the infrared thermometer to adjust to the ambient temperature of the environment. If you use it in a walk-in freezer, give it time to adjust to the temperature before using it for taking temperature readings.

You must also take note of emissivity when measuring the temperature of food or an object. The higher the emissivity of an object, the higher the temperature reading on the infrared thermometer. The more you understand how emissivity works, the more you can understand how it impacts the quality of your reading. You must assess the material you are reading before you use an infrared thermometer. It ensures that the material does not interfere with the reading nor inaccurately reports the temperature.

No matter in what industry you use an infrared thermometer, it’s clear that this tool increases efficiency and reliability. Always remember the correct way to use it so you can ensure the most accurate results every time.