There is an obvious appeal to buying an infrared thermometer for cooking – it can measure the temperature of the food without touching it. However, the same things that make it a great thermometer are also its downsides. There are limitations to using an infrared thermometer, one of which is the inability to use it in water. 

The short answer is no. But the long answer is that there is a specific technique to use when measuring water temperature with an infrared thermometer. If you want to use an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of water or any form of liquid, you have to stir that liquid vigorously first before measuring it with the thermometer. The stirring action will ensure that the liquid on the surface is at the same temperature as the liquid below the surface. 

However, you cannot use an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of boiling water. The boiling action releases steam, and that steam can result in inaccurate temperature readings. 

There are specific types of thermometers that are intended to measure the temperature of water. One example is a floating thermometer. It is an excellent tool for measuring water temperature, especially when you need to achieve a precise temperature level for a specific purpose. 

The floating thermometer has a dial that will stay on the water’s surface. It displays the temperature reading of the water while the probe is submerged. The probe will sense the temperature changes and accordingly display that on the dial. 

No. As mentioned above, an infrared thermometer cannot come into contact with water. It only measures the surface temperature using the stirring technique to ensure an even reading below the surface of the water. 

Like measuring food temperature, the reading of water temperature has many external variables. Hence, it is vital to check the accuracy rating for the specific model of infrared thermometer you are using. In addition, you must get your thermometer regularly calibrated to produce accurate readings. 

No, you cannot use an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of any object through glass, clear plastic, or any other transparent surfaces.

The temperature reading generated on the infrared thermometer will be that of the transparent surface, not the object behind it (or contained in it). 

Nothing must stand between the object and the infrared thermometer to get the most accurate reading. 

There are various types of infrared thermometers, and the temperature measurement range varies accordingly. A clinical infrared thermometer offers higher accuracy in producing a temperature reading of the body. The temperature range for clinical purposes is from 32 to 42 degrees C. 

On the other hand, industrial infrared thermometers offer an extensive temperature range since they deal with extreme temperatures. The typical range is from -50 to 100 degrees C. 

Infrared thermometers are great for cooking and many other applications. However, there are certain limitations to their use and application that you must know about. It also pays to know the best practices when using an infrared thermometer to ensure you get the most accurate readings.

1. Always measure temperature from a distance.

Infrared thermometers are great for testing the temperature of food or any object from a distance. No contact is necessary between the infrared thermometer and the object to ensure accuracy in reading. Therefore, an infrared thermometer is your best option if using a probe isn’t possible (such as impenetrable frozen food) or when you are dealing with extremely high heat. 

2. Field of view matters in using an infrared thermometer.

Consider the target size, distance, and angle when measuring an object or food with an infrared thermometer. These factors come into play in determining the surface temperature. Therefore, you must get the right angle and distance to get the closest possible reading, even when you cannot touch the object or food.

The best angle to measure water or any surface with an infrared thermometer is to hold the device directly perpendicular. This angle will create a tight circle around the border of the object being measured. 

There are several practical uses and applications for an infrared thermometer, whether in or out of the kitchen. If you use it for measuring liquids in cooking, it’s essential to know the device’s limitations and follow the best practices recommended above. 

If you need to get a precise temperature reading for water or any liquid for your cooking process, turn to other thermometers instead. They will help you produce a more accurate reading when you get to submerge the probe sensors into the liquid rather than taking the surface temperature, which is the case with an infrared thermometer.