➤ CAN I CHECK MY GRILL TEMP WITH AN INFRARED THERMOMETER?
Yes! However, if you aim an infrared thermometer at a porous surface like a grill or grate, it will factor in the surface temp of whatever surfaces are visible through the holes of the grill or grate when calculating a final temperature for your reading.
HOW TO MEASURE YOUR GRILL’S TEMPERATURE WITH AN INFRARED THERMOMETER
- Place a solid surface like a cast iron plate or skillet on the grill and let it preheat for 5-10 minutes.
- Spray a little cooking oil on the cast iron’s surface to ensure proper emissivity.
- Measure the surface temperature of the plate or skillet with your IR thermometer.
➤ CAN I CHECK MY MEAT OR OTHER FOODS FOR DONENESS WITH AN INFRARED THERMOMETER?
Since infrared thermometers only measure surface temperatures, they are not very effective at gauging the doneness of foods. Only traditional probe thermometers can determine the internal temperature of solid foods.
USING AN IR THERMOMETER TO MEASURE THE TEMPERATURE OF LIQUIDS
When using an infrared thermometer with liquids like soups and sauces, be sure to stir vigorously before taking a measurement to equilibrate the temperature in the volume of liquid and more accurately approximate the internal temperature of the liquid. Be aware that steam, even when a liquid is not boiling, can condense on your thermometer and affect the accuracy of your measurements.
➤ CAN INFRARED THERMOMETERS SEE THROUGH GLASS OR CLEAR PLASTIC?
Infrared thermometers do NOT “see through” glass, liquids or other transparent surfaces. Even though visible light (like a laser) passes through them—i.e. if you point an IR thermometer out a window, you will be measuring the surface temperature of the window itself.
➤ DO INFRARED THERMOMETERS SEE THROUGH WATER?
No. Infrared thermometers can only measure the surface temperature of water—even if the laser’s light passes through the water as described above.
➤ DO I NEED TO CLEAN MY INFRARED THERMOMETER?
Yes! To be accurate, infrared thermometers must be kept free of dirt, dust, moisture, fog, smoke and debris. Always take the time to clean your infrared thermometer after exposure to dirty, dusty, smoky or humid conditions. You should also plan a regular cleaning about every six months. Particular care should be taken to keep the infrared lens or opening clean and free of debris.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR INFRARED THERMOMETER:
- Use a soft cloth or cotton swab with water or medical alcohol (never use soap or chemicals)
- Carefully wipe first the lens and then the body of the thermometer
- Allow the lens to dry fully before using the thermometer