How to choose the Right digital forehead infrared thermometer (Explained)

How do you choose the right digital forehead infrared thermometer for you needs? 

Infrared thermometers are becoming a standard medical device in every home. However, many people are still wondering what an infrared thermometer is.

Infrared thermometers are medical devices recognized by doctors as an indispensable product in every family’s medicine cabinet.

This device is prevalent and trusted by many because of its high sensitivity, ease of use, and the ability to monitor body temperature and warn of fever changes (if any) very quickly.

Here is some information about the thermometer I will give you, as well as how to choose the best forehead infrared thermometer in the article. 

What is an infrared thermometer?

The infrared electronic thermometer is a type of thermometer that applies infrared radiation induction technology.

This thermometer does not need to be in direct contact with the body or the object to be measured.

Still, it accurately measures the body temperature and monitors the rise and fall of the temperature.

Measurement is based on measuring the amount of infrared emitted by the body. Infrared thermometers can measure the forehead and ear or have built-in forehead and ear thermometers.

Unlike mercury thermometers, the measurement process is quite complicated.

When the measurement is completed, it takes a long time to get results; infrared thermometers need to put the device near the place to be measured and press the button; less than 5 seconds gives the correct result.

Structure of infrared thermometer:

• The sensor part is in charge of detecting the body’s wavelength
•  and transmitting it to the thermometer’s LCD screen, which is mounted on the device’s body.
• Adjustment buttons such as power off and on convert measurement units and can switch from measuring human body temperature to measuring room temperature.

Working principle:

Any object with a temperature above -273 degrees Celsius emits thermal radiation or infrared waves, and so does the human body.

The infrared sensor will measure the energy level emitted by the object we want to measure, then calculate and display the result on the LCD screen.

Uses of infrared thermometers

Infrared thermometers are widely used in practice, with diverse uses in many fields, especially in the medical field, to measure body temperature.

In addition, infrared thermometers are also used in industry: measuring the temperature of engines, machinery, and furnaces, measuring temperatures from a distance, in difficult-to-contact places, with many toxic substances.

Engineers trust this thermometer because of its accuracy and fast measurement speed.

What types of infrared thermometers are on the market today?

Currently, infrared thermometers are available in 3 different main types; the specific types are as follows:

1. Infrared forehead thermometer
2. Infrared ear thermometer
3. Non-contact infrared thermometer

Infrared forehead thermometer

Infrared forehead thermometers are commonly used in hospitals, clinics, homes, or public places. This type of thermometer gives rapid results and works on the principle of auto-off, so it saves energy effectively.

How to use Infrared forehead thermometer:

When you want to use it, you need to put the thermometer close to the middle of the forehead; the infrared forehead thermometer will quickly perform a temperature scan from the forehead to the temple area and give a valid result—high precision.

Infrared ear thermometer

Realizing parents’ difficulty when measuring the temperature of their children when they are sick, the infrared electronic ear thermometer product was born.

This is an effective device that makes measuring a baby’s temperature easier. Infrared ear thermometers have the advantages of being small, compact, and convenient, which a thermometer that can be easily carried anywhere.

This type of thermometer is designed with a long nozzle that can be inserted deep into the ear. The thermometer will display the temperature measurement results quickly in just a few seconds.

How to use Infrared ear thermometer:

This type of thermometer is straightforward to use. You need to press the On button to turn on the device.

An ear icon will appear on the product display, and a beep will appear twice, indicating that the operating mode has started.

Next, you put the thermometer close to the ear, so the thermometer’s tip is toward the eardrum.

Proceed to press the measurement; within a few minutes, you will receive the displayed results again; the long beep sound is the notification sound of the end of the temperature process.

Infrared thermometer without contact

A non-contact infrared thermometer combines features for measuring the temperature at the forehead and the ear.

Medical experts consider this a valuable medical tool that everyone needs to have in their family’s medicine cabinet.

The most outstanding advantage of the non-contact infrared thermometer is the intelligent infrared emission mode and the design that combines the temperature sensor with high sensitivity.

Usage of the Infrared thermometer without contact :

It is not necessary to make direct contact with the object being measured when using a non-contact infrared thermometer.

Specifically, when using this type of thermometer, you need to put the thermometer in front of the body a certain distance away from the body to be measured; the thermometer will provide accurate results for each measurement in just 1 to 2 days. 2 seconds of operation.

A non-contact infrared thermometer supports health checks and diagnoses for each family member.

Thanks to the contactless feature, parents can take advantage of the product to easily monitor their baby’s health while sleeping.

This innovative device will signal if the received body temperature reading exceeds the baseline threshold.

Some reputable for infrared thermometer brands includes: 

1. Omron infrared thermometer
2. Microlife infrared thermometer
3. Beurer infrared thermometer

Omron infrared thermometer

– Brand from Japan that specializes in producing high-quality medical equipment. For accurate results, time for quick results.

Microlife infrared thermometer

– Brand from Switzerland for high durability at a price suitable for every family.

Beurer infrared thermometer

– Brand from Germany, trendy. Has the same price as Microlife and Omron, good quality, high accuracy, and many functions.

In addition to the popular infrared thermometer brands mentioned above, there are a few other good quality brands such as Braun, Laica, Polygreen infrared thermometers, etc. You can also find an excellent infrared thermometer fit in the products of these brands.

Criteria to know when choosing to buy an infrared thermometer

• Coming from reputable brands with clear origin
• Guaranteed quick measurements in seconds and highly accurate results
• It does not affect the person being measured
• Trusted and highly appreciated by many people
• Genuine warranty of two years or more

  

Noteworthy points when using infrared thermometers to measure body temperature

• The infrared electronic thermometer is a medical device that produces highly accurate results. However, to avoid affecting the results and longevity of the product, when using it, you should note a few specific issues below:
• Infrared thermometers must be stored in a cool, dry place, avoiding places with high temperatures or humidity. Be careful not to bump or step on the infrared thermometer during use.
• Areas to be measured (e.g., forehead, ears) should be clean and not wet. In addition, to be safe, you should avoid exposing the infrared thermometer directly to your eyes.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and the instructions for use for the most accurate results. Do not measure the temperature over a large area.
• In addition, you should not use infrared thermometers continuously with close times because the thermometer has not yet returned to normal after the previous measurement. According to medical experts, the best interval between each thermometer should be 2 to 3 minutes.

Pros and cons of using infrared thermometers:

Pros:

• Using is very easy; you need to point at the object to be measured, then press the button and read the results on the screen.
• Provides very high accuracy, tiny error
• There is no need for contact between the object to be measured and the thermometer so that it can be applied in many areas of life.
• Can measure the temperature of large objects.
• Very useful when measuring temperature in hazardous locations: Contains hazardous substances, harsh conditions, electrical equipment, etc.

Cons:

• The price is relatively high
• Although this thermometer product has a quick time for results, it is also very susceptible to external influences such as wind, fan, air conditioner, and sweat, affecting the results.
• Using electricity, if the power is low or insufficient, the product cannot be used.

Instructions for measuring body temperature with an electronic thermometer

The electronic thermometer is a specialized product used to measure human body temperature. This device has a compact structure, allowing fast measurements with high accuracy, and results are returned directly on the display screen. This meter is selected and used in hospitals, schools, and families.

Currently, electronic thermometers are divided into two types, each with its measurement method; for that reason, we will guide you to take measurements in 2 ways to help you be more active when conducting operations.

How to measure body temperature with a non-contact electronic thermometer

Measurement of body temperature with a non-contact electronic thermometer at a body position such as the forehead.

This is relatively easy to measure, especially suitable for families with young children or conducting measurements with many adults in public areas. You proceed with the following steps:

Step 1:

Start the electronic thermometer with the On/Off function key, and set the appropriate body temperature display temperature as Celsius.

Step 2:

Bring the sensor tip of the electronic thermometer close to the forehead position, tilted 45 degrees or perpendicular to the forehead.

The device needs to be about 1-3cm away from the forehead, then press the Start button to measure.

Step 3:

You should wait 3-5 seconds for the machine to take the measurement and return the results on the screen.

Read the results, and use this measurement to compare with the average temperature for the best assessment. Repeat the measurement if necessary.

Step 4:

Turn off the machine, clean and store it carefully to ensure the quality of use.

Note when using:

• This easy-to-implement, non-contact electronic thermometer method allows you to take quick measurements without direct contact with the specimen. Non-contact thermometers often have a temperature warning; when the forehead temperature is 37.5oC or higher, it is evident that the body is feverish.
• You need to point the sensor to the position to be measured. Usually, the sensor of this type of meter will be located at the top of the device. It is necessary to ensure that the exact location of this sensor is determined so that when measuring, the machine is operating at its best, and the measurement results are limited in error.
• You need to check the meter’s power source and ensure it has enough batteries to ensure its operation. To be sure, changing the battery or fully charging it before use is recommended.
• You should conduct the measurement 2-3 times to ensure the most objective measurement results.

How to measure body temperature with an electronic contact thermometer

Measurement of body temperature by electronic contact thermometers at positions such as ear, mouth, and rectum (anus).

This is an easy measurement method; it is necessary to put the measuring sensor in direct contact to get the most accurate body temperature data. Measure by following these steps:

Step 1:

Turn on the thermometer with the button with the power icon or the On/Off button. The temperature setting shows the appropriate body temperature in degrees Celsius.

Step 2:

Bring the measuring device with the temperature sensor into direct contact with the temperature measuring element. Press the Start button for the meter to receive data and conduct measurements.

Step 3:

Wait about 3-5 seconds for the device to return the measurement results on the screen.

Read the measurement results, and compare them with the standard temperature to conclude the body temperature status. Proceed with the installation and re-measure if necessary.

Step 4:

Turn off the machine, clean and store it to ensure the quality of use and the life of the device.

Note when using:

• An electronic thermometer for contact measurement has high sensitivity; a light touch can immediately return measurement results with high accuracy.
• Thermometer products using this measurement method can be used for all measuring objects, including babies. Fast measurement time, high accuracy. However, contact sites such as ears, mouth, and rectum (anus) have a higher temperature of about 1oC than other measurement locations; therefore, if the measured temperature is above 38oC, it can be concluded—a body condition with symptoms of fever.
• You need to ensure the measuring surface, such as the ear, anus, .. is clean to help the sensor work at its best and limit errors when taking temperature measurements.
• Users should clean the device after each use, especially in the sensor part, to avoid dust and dirt leading to damage. Store the meter in a dry place, preferably in a glass cabinet, carrying case, or plastic bag.

Should you buy an electronic thermometer to measure the ear or the forehead for young children?

Electronic thermometers are indispensable medical devices in families with young children.

Not only brings safety for children, but the product also gives fast and accurate measurement results.

However, the plating often wonders and does not know whether to buy an electronic thermometer to measure the ear or the forehead.

Distinguish between ear and forehead electronic thermometers

Many kinds of electronic thermometers are available on the market, but mothers frequently choose and use the ones that measure the temperature at the ear and forehead.

Electronic ear thermometer:

Infrared ear thermometers apply infrared sensor technology, allowing to check the object’s temperature without having to contact the human body, with high accuracy directly. Thanks to the part that detects infrared heat radiating from the eardrum and surrounding tissues.

There are two common types of ear thermometers and ear thermometers. Accordingly, with the ear measurement type, you need to touch the sensor head to the inside of the ear hole for the device to take and process data, returning accurate measurement results.

With an ear thermometer, mainly infrared, when measuring, you keep it from 1-3cm away from the ear and wait for 3-5 seconds for the device to give the body temperature.

Electronic forehead thermometer:

The device is used less than an ear thermometer because of the limited measurement area; they only measure the temperature of the forehead.

However, the product is used in hospitals and clinics to avoid cross-contamination.

When using, we need to cover the thermometer in the middle and close it to the forehead, and scan from the middle of the forehead to the temple.

Should you buy an ear thermometer or a forehead thermometer?

The question is, is an ear or forehead thermometer better? Which type should you buy? Therefore, today, I will offer some analysis and evaluation information so that mothers can choose more easily.

Forehead and ear thermometers are both temperatures measuring devices – specialized devices used to measure the temperature of the human body, especially young children, so the accuracy of these two product lines is only about +- 0.1 degree.

So, regarding the accuracy, both of these thermometers are suitable for measuring the temperature of family members.

So, “are forehead and ear thermometers accurate? Which is better?” Each device has its lifespan, advantages, and disadvantages; you need to choose the most appropriate product based on your intended use.

Understand simply as follows: for example, if your family has young or highly active children, you want to check the baby’s temperature suddenly without affecting the play or eating.

The best thermometer for you is the forehead measurement. However, the ear contact measurement gives guaranteed results with high accuracy and reliability. It would be beneficial if you also gave an ear thermometer some thought.

Besides, the accuracy of the electronic thermometer depends on several other factors, such as the wax of the wet meter; you should not buy an electronic ear thermometer but should use an electronic forehead thermometer.

To ensure accuracy when measuring temperature. In addition, it avoids the need to change the filter tip of the thermometer multiple times.

Or, if young children often twist, move, and do not stay in one place, mothers should choose a forehead thermometer instead of an electronic ear thermometer.

If you buy an electronic thermometer for use in clinics and hospitals, you should buy an electronic forehead thermometer that will be more convenient and reduce cross-infection.

Note when using electronic thermometers to measure forehead and ears

Here are some notes for mothers when using an electronic forehead and ear thermometer:

• With an electronic ear thermometer, mothers should clean their baby’s ears with a cotton swab before use to avoid erroneous results. When inserted into the ear should rotate a bit, wait for the beep and read the result.
• With a forehead thermometer, you should dry your baby’s forehead before taking a baby’s temperature.
• It is not recommended to measure the temperature continuously; each time is about 2-3 minutes apart.
• Clean the infrared head of the device with a cotton swab and alcohol.
• When buying a hygrometer or moving, you should not leave the device in the car’s trunk because it may reduce measuring accuracy.
• When changing the environment suddenly from hot to cold, mothers should leave the electronic thermometer for about 30 minutes before using it.

A few electronic forehead thermometers you can check out and refer to:

Image	Name	Price Link
	iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer, Digital Infrared Thermometer for Adults and Kids.	On Amazon, you can see the price right here.
	Infrared Forehead Thermometer, Non-Contact Forehead Thermometer for Adults	On Amazon, you can see the price right here.
	Braun Forehead Thermometer –  Digital Thermometer with Professional Accuracy and Color Coded Temperature Guidance.	On Amazon, you can see the price right here.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, the above helpful information has helped you better know about the infrared forehead thermometer and the things to avoid during use.

Currently, there are many types of thermometers of unknown origin and poor quality on the market.

Therefore, you need to choose to buy products that have been tested at reputable places, such as hospitals, pharmacies, and medical facilities.

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