Question 1

So how is this any different than a non-contact IR thermometer?

Accepted Answer

The most important difference between this and a non-contact IR thermometer is that once you read a base temperature you can set the device to give a visual representation of any temperature differences. The way it does that is by changing the color of a bright spot of light it projects on the surface you are measuring. That was important to me because I am in the energy conservation business and I can use it to show my customers where cold air is leaking in around doors or windows or where heat is escaping to the outside. The light will go from green to red or from green to blue depending on whether the temperature is going up or down. Nothing beats a visual indication of what is going on and this gives you that. The light registers when you first read a base temperature then when it changes it goes to blue for colder or red for warmer in 1-5-10 degree increments depending on where it is set. Personally I am no fan of Black and Decker products. I avoid them as being cheap foreign made and low quality. However, this thing works for me and I have had it for two years without any problem.

Question 2

Does anyone know if this serves the same purpose as a kitchen thermal reader?

Accepted Answer

Similar! But accuracy/procedure different. One is infrared, kitchen temp,accurate is best attained by probe/gauge/ dial, the B&D leak detector? I have a $2,500.00 so called state of the art, professional contractors tool! And the B&D does almost as precision results! In closing, very good tool. Only down side/con: I attached a lanyard on the heel of its handle, long enough to hang around neck.or belt clipAs this review just came in, I'm using it right now at customers home. Being in business 51 years this is 5*  J.R. Massachusetts

Question 3

For years we have felt a cold draft coming from upstairs with no idea of it's origins. Will this product help me locate it better than "smoke."

Accepted Answer

yes it would help you locate your cold draft.  I went around my house and could believe the places I found that was letting in the outside air.  This works great.  I was able the save on my heating cost and for the first time in over twenty years my 100 plus year old house feels warm.  this will pay for its self.

Question 4

Can this be used with things like an engine block or a grill? how high does the heat readings go?

Accepted Answer

This is a tool best tuned for houses. Definitely not wide enough range for a grill. I have an IR thermometer I bought for my car years ago that has a very wide temp range -- I'd recommend something not made for figuring out where your house is loosing heat if you want to use with grill and cars. I think my other one does up to like 900 or 1200F.

ASIN	B0044R87BE
Alarm	Visual
Best Sellers Rank	#193,927 in Industrial & Scientific ( See Top 100 in Industrial & Scientific ) #185 in Gas Detectors & Alarms #1,406 in Temperature & Humidity Measurement
Brand	BLACK+DECKER
Built-In Media	BLACK+DECKER Thermal Leak Detector (TLD100)
Color	Black
Customer Reviews	4.4 out of 5 stars 5,230 Reviews
Global Trade Identification Number	00885911106337
Item Type Name	BLACK+DECKER Thermal Leak Detector (TLD100)
Item Weight	10.4 ounces
Manufacturer	Black & Decker
Manufacturer Warranty Description	2 Years
Mfr Part Number	TLD100
Model Number	TLD100
Number of Items	1
Operating Humidity	50 percent
Power Source	Battery Powered
Product Style	modern
Style	modern
UPC	885911106337
Unit Count	1.0 Count

BLACK+DECKER Thermal Leak Detector (TLD100)

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