Sep
A temperature gun or non-contact thermometer is a practical tool that every household should consider. Unlike traditional thermometers, a touchless thermometer allows you to take a reading without physical contact, reducing the risk of contamination and making it easier to monitor your children’s health, especially during cold and flu season. However, getting accurate readings requires understanding how to use an infrared temperature gun properly.
This guide will walk through practical tips on using a temperature gun effectively, highlighting the importance of positioning, distance, and avoiding common mistakes. These tips will ensure that your readings are accurate and consistent. We’ll also explore the science behind infrared thermometers, common errors, and different types of gun thermometers available in the market.
How infrared temperature gun work?
The temp gun uses infrared technology to measure the thermal radiation emitted by the body or object being measured. Essentially, the temperature gun reads the infrared energy emitted by the skin and converts that into a temperature reading.
When aimed at the forehead, the gun thermometer captures the heat radiating from the surface and provides a quick reading, typically within a few seconds. Because it doesn’t require physical contact, it’s more hygienic, making it a popular choice for homes, hospitals, and public places. However, as with any technology, the accuracy of the readings can be impacted by external factors like positioning, environmental conditions, and device settings.
Proper positioning of touchless thermometer
One of the key factors in obtaining accurate results from a non-contact thermometer is ensuring proper positioning. When using a temperature gun, always aim for the center of the forehead. This area typically provides the most consistent and reliable results because it’s exposed and easy to access.
Steps for Correct Positioning:
- Ensure the forehead is clear: Hair, sweat, and dirt can affect the accuracy of the reading. Always make sure the forehead is clean and dry before using the temp gun.
- Point at the center of the forehead: Hold the infrared thermometer steady and aim directly at the center of the forehead. Avoid angling the thermometer gun as this can skew results.
- Avoid distractions or movements: If your child is moving or fidgeting, wait for them to settle before taking the reading to ensure accuracy.
Maintain the right distance
One of the most common mistakes when using a temp gun is getting too close or too far from the target. Hold the infrared thermometer 1-3 inches away from the skin for an accurate result. Check your specific model’s manual for the recommended distance, as it can vary slightly between devices. Following this distance ensures that the gun thermometer detects the correct amount of infrared energy from the skin.
Avoid external factors
External factors such as air conditioning, direct sunlight, or being near a heat source can affect the accuracy of your temperature gun. Make sure the environment where you’re taking the reading is stable. Avoid measuring your child’s temperature right after they’ve come indoors from a hot or cold environment. Allow their body temperature to stabilize for a few minutes before using the non-contact thermometer.
Know when to clean your device
Your infrared temperature gun relies on a clean sensor to deliver accurate results. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the sensor, affecting its ability to detect body temperature accurately. Clean the sensor with a soft cloth, especially if you’re using the thermometer gun frequently.
Always follow manufacturer guidelines
Each temperature gun model is different, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines for your device. Some touchless thermometers may have different body and object temperature settings, so ensure you’re in the correct mode. Additionally, different models may slightly vary the recommended distance for readings or optimal use conditions.
Take multiple readings
If you’re unsure about the reading, take a few measurements to ensure consistency. For instance, using the temp gun at different times within a short period can give you an average reading that’s more reliable. This is particularly useful if you’re getting conflicting results due to environmental factors or if your child has been moving around a lot.
Be mindful of the battery life
One overlooked factor when using a temp gun is its battery life. If the battery is running low, the accuracy of the readings may decline. Regularly check and replace the batteries to ensure your infrared temperature gun is working properly, especially when needed.
Know when to call the doctor
While temperature guns are excellent for monitoring fevers, knowing when a fever is serious is important. If your child’s touchless thermometer shows a consistent reading of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, consult a doctor, especially if the fever lasts more than a day or is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy or a rash.
Word from SonoHeallth
Using a temperature gun correctly can make fever monitoring much easier and safer for your family. By ensuring proper positioning, maintaining the right distance, and following these tips, you can trust the accuracy of your infrared thermometer to help manage your child’s health. Remember, the key to accurate readings is consistency and proper technique, so practice these methods for reliable results every time you use your non-contact thermometer.
