Best Uses for Infrared Thermometers

Infrared technology has been around for ages and used in different industries. There is a wide range of infrared thermometers specifically designed for various purposes. This entry discusses how infrared thermometers are best used.

Understanding Infrared Thermometers

To better understand where infrared thermometers are best used, you must know how they work and what makes them different from regular probe thermometers.

The technology behind infrared thermometers is quite complex; however, the concept is simple. Anything in the universe that has mass emits some form of energy in the form of heat. The infrared thermometer can detect the difference between the heat radiated by the surface of that object and the heat radiated by its surroundings.

By focusing on the heat/light from the object and funneling it to its detector (thermopile), the infrared thermometer turns heat into electricity, which is then measured within the tool. The amount of energy generated by the object’s light is displayed on the thermometer’s digital screen. This sequence occurs in seconds, making infrared thermometers extremely efficient at gathering temperature data across different applications and scenarios.

Different Types of Infrared Thermometers

As mentioned earlier, different infrared thermometers are designed for specific applications. Here are the different types of infrared thermometers and where they are best used.

Spot infrared thermometers

Also known as a pyrometer, the spot infrared thermometer is a compact, handheld device that looks like a radar gun. It measures surface temperature and can spot-read temperature in a second or two. It measures the temperature of distant, hard-to-reach, dangerous-to-touch objects.

HVAC technicians commonly use them to measure ventilation systems in buildings, spot-check temperatures, and identify weak spots or leaks.

Another common type of spot infrared thermometer is the non-contact infrared thermometer (NCIT) you usually saw during the pandemic. It measures body temperature by pointing at the forehead to read the skin’s surface temperature. It is highly convenient and efficient, as it can take temperature readings without physically touching anyone.

Infrared Scanner Systems

This type of infrared thermometer is specifically designed for industrial use, particularly for manufacturing plants and conveyors. They work by scanning items on the conveyor belt (glass, metal sheets, etc.) to check their quality and look for controlled weak spots.

Infrared Thermal-Imaging Cameras

This type of camera measures radiation (heat) over large areas and displays the results as a two-dimensional image of the site. This camera requires both software and hardware to operate and displays temperature readings in real time. They are commonly used in airports to check passengers’ temperatures upon departure or arrival. They are also used for reading the temperature of items and buildings.

Infrared Cameras for Cooking

Most commercial kitchens and restaurants have a variety of thermometers in their arsenal, each with a specific purpose. Most people don’t know this, but chefs and cooks also widely use infrared cameras to spot-check meals and ensure they stay at their desired temperature throughout the day.

Buffet restaurants, for example, use infrared cameras to help keep their several courses of food warm and safe for consumption.

By simply pointing the infrared gun at your food, you can measure its temperature. At the same time, you can monitor the food temperature to avoid overcooking or undercooking without the hassle of poking it with a probe and burning your fingers.

Since you can use this thermometer to safely measure the temperature of extremely hot, hard-to-reach objects, it is ideal for checking the temperature of the oven, grill, and pan. This thermometer can help ensure an even heat inside the oven, which is vital for baking. By measuring the surface temperature of the pizza’s crust and toppings, pizza chefs can determine how ready their pizzas are and avoid undercooking. The same goes for grilling: this thermometer will help you maintain an even temperature throughout your grate.

An infrared thermometer is also better for deep frying than a stem thermometer, and it helps ensure the iron pans and skillets are ready for searing.

For big restaurants and commercial establishments that require large refrigerators and freezers to keep their goods, infrared thermometers provide the most accurate temperature readings, which are way better than dials calibrated from 1 to 5.

Other uses of infrared thermometers at home

An infrared thermometer isn’t just for measuring your body temperature; it’s also for kitchen use. It is also beneficial for at-home maintenance and repairs.

Automotive Repairs

The engine bay can get pretty hot, and when you are tinkering with your car, it pays to know which component is too hot to touch. Moreover, checking your engine’s temperature can help you identify problems that need repair and detect overheating to prevent breakdowns. They are often used to test for blockages in the radiator, measure the temperature of the belt and pulley, diagnose misfires in the cylinder (through the exhaust manifold), detect excessive heat in the braking components, test HVAC (outlets, inlets, output vents, condenser, and supply lines), etc. This is why an infrared thermometer is one of an auto mechanic’s fundamental diagnostic tools.

Backyard Safety

The scorching summer heat can make metal components on your backyard playset too hot for the kids. And it will take a second or two for them to get contact burn from sitting, grabbing chains for swings, or sitting on metal slides. This thermometer can help determine whether the toys or playsets are safe for the kids.

Spot Insulation Weak Spots

If you notice an unusual surge in your heating bill, check your home’s insulation for any weak spots. Any holes or leaks in your insulation can cause trapped heat to escape; the opposite will happen during the summer. An infrared thermometer can help you identify and pinpoint weak points in your insulation system, so you can repair and improve it.