Do you know how to use an infrared thermometer? An infrared thermometer, also known as a laser thermometer, is a valuable tool in a commercial kitchen. It allows you to quickly and accurately determine surface temperatures from a distance.
This can be handy for checking griddle surface temperatures or verifying when an open deck oven is prepared to bake. Infrared temperature guns are also an excellent choice for frozen foods, which may be impossible to penetrate with probes.
Because the thermometer is not in contact with the food products, it’s not necessary to clean and sanitize it between uses. However, the handle should be cleaned if it is used by a cook who has just handled potential sources of cross-contamination.
The ease of use makes this thermometer ideal for most food safety checks. Proper use of an infrared thermometer is essential to ensure an accurate reading.
Infrared Thermometer
An infrared thermometer, also known as a non-contact thermometer or a temperature gun, is a device used to measure the temperature of an object or surface without physical contact. It works by detecting the infrared radiation emitted by the object, which is then converted into an electrical signal that is displayed as a temperature reading.
Infrared thermometers are commonly used in industrial, medical, and scientific applications to measure the temperature of objects that are difficult or dangerous to access, such as moving machinery, electrical components, or human body temperature. They are also used in cooking and food preparation to measure the temperature of hot liquids, meats, and other food items.
One advantage of infrared thermometers is that they can provide fast and accurate temperature readings without requiring direct contact, which can be particularly useful when hygiene or safety concerns are present.
How to Use an Infrared Thermometer
Using an infrared thermometer, also known as a non-contact thermometer, is a convenient and straightforward way to measure the temperature of an object or a person without making physical contact. Here are the steps to use an infrared thermometer effectively:
Prepare the Infrared Thermometer: Ensure that the thermometer is clean and free from dirt or debris that could affect its accuracy. Insert fresh batteries if necessary and ensure they have sufficient power.
Power On the Thermometer: Turn on the infrared thermometer by pressing the power button or switch, if available. Some thermometers may have a trigger button that you press to activate the device.
Set the Temperature Mode: Many infrared thermometers allow you to switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature units. If necessary, select your preferred temperature scale.
Aim the Thermometer: Point the thermometer at the object or surface you want to measure from a distance that allows for a clear reading. The distance may vary depending on the model, but it’s typically between 1 and 6 inches (2.5 and 15 cm).
Trigger the Measurement: If your thermometer has a trigger button, press it once to initiate the measurement. If not, aim the thermometer at the target and press the measurement button.
Please wait for the Reading: The infrared thermometer emits a laser or LED to indicate where it is measuring. Keep the thermometer steady and wait for a few seconds for the reading to stabilize.
Record the Temperature: Once the reading has stabilized, the temperature will be displayed on the screen. Write down or remember the reading for your reference. Some thermometers also have a memory function to store previous readings.
Power Off the Thermometer: Turn off the thermometer when you’re finished using it to conserve battery life.
Clean the Thermometer: It’s a good practice to clean the thermometer’s lens with a soft cloth or a cotton swab after each use to prevent any buildup that could affect accuracy.
Store the Thermometer: Keep the infrared thermometer safe and clean for future use.
How Do Infrared Thermometers Work?
It is essential to understand how infrared thermometers work to comprehend why they are used differently from other types. Infrared energy is a type of thermal radiation that thermometers can detect from a distance.
Emissivity is how well an object’s surface radiates infrared energy. Organic materials, such as meat and plant byproducts, have emissivities of 0.95. At the same time, shiny surfaces usually have much lower ratings since they reflect a significant amount of energy directed at them.
To address that issue, apply a thin layer of oil, an organic material, to any metal surface. Before bringing it to temperature, measure it with an infrared thermometer.
Why Use Infrared Thermometers?
Take Measurements from a Distance
Infrared thermometers are ideal for taking temperatures from a distance that need to be tested. They provide accurate temperatures without ever touching the thing you’re measuring.
This is ideal when you can’t insert a search into the item being measured, if the surface is out of reach, or if you have to stay your distance due to high heat. You might use an infrared thermometer to detect live objects that are:
1. Fragile
2. Dangerous
3. Impenetrable
4. Moving
5. Out of reach
Infrared Thermometers Measure Surface Temperature
Infrared thermometers are great for checking surface temperature; however, they do not measure an object’s interior temperature.
Their speed and relative ease of use have made infrared thermometers invaluable public safety tools in the food service industry, manufacturing, HVAC, asphalt & concrete, labs, and countless other industrial applications.
Limitations of Infrared Thermometers
Infrared thermometers can be handy when used correctly and applied to the right tasks. However, you need to understand their limitations before you can develop confidence in their ability to give fast temperatures.
Using an Infrared Thermometer
The most important thing to understand about this thermometer is its best uses.
Additional Tips to Help You Get the Most Out of Your Infrared Thermometer
1. Do not look directly into the beam – the laser can cause permanent eye damage
2. Stir all liquid and soft foods before measuring temperatures
3. Sudden ambient temperature changes can make it difficult for the thermometer to get an accurate reading. If you would like to record temperatures in a walk-in cooler.
Place the thermometer within the cooler 20 minutes before taking measurements to ensure more accurate results.
4. Remove all covers, such as glass doors and plastic film, before taking the temperature of a product. There should be no barriers between the thermometer and the product
5. Regularly clean the thermometer, especially the lens, to ensure accurate readings
6. When checking the temperature of a griddle or pan, add oil to the surface and allow it to come to temperature before taking a reading
(FAQs)
Q. Can you use an infrared thermometer on humans?
A. To measure human temperature, you should only use FDA-approved infrared thermometers. FDA-approved means the device has been tested and approved to ensure its safety for both infants and adults.
Q. What is normal body temperature with an infrared thermometer?
A. NCITs could also be used to reduce cross-contamination risk and minimize the danger of spreading disease.
Q. Can I take my temperature with an infrared thermometer?
A. Can an infrared thermometer measure the temperature of an object? Yes, most infrared thermometers are used to monitor the temperature of both bodies and objects.
With a one-touch button, you can easily adjust the settings to ensure accurate readings every time you measure the temperature.
Q. How do I use an infrared thermometer on my forehead?
A. Aim the thermometer probe at the center of the forehead and maintain a distance of less than 1.18in (3cm) away. Do not touch the forehead directly. Gently press the measurement button to start measuring.
Conclusion
An infrared thermometer effectively measures the temperature of objects and people without making physical contact. Overall, it can be a helpful tool for measuring body temperature and other objects. However, to get accurate readings, it is essential to follow the instructions carefully and use the device correctly.
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