Breathalyzer Buy Guide: Factors to Consider

A breathalyzer is a valuable device that can estimate your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) or alcohol level. It helps people moderate alcohol consumption and can prevent them from drink driving. However, choosing one can become confusing. Fortunately, a breathalyzer buy guide can help individuals understand what important features a breathalyzer should have. Firstly, the best device should deliver consistent and reliable breath test results each time. Secondly, it should also have cost-effective prices. Lastly, it should be easy to use.

The BAC level is the amount of alcohol in the bloodstream. Alcohol can have different effects on individuals based on many factors. While many people feel euphoric effects from alcohol intake, it also causes slowed reaction times, a loss of coordination, and a decrease in judgment. Hence, breathalyzers are crucial in making informed decisions before driving. This article will present the three primary considerations in buying a breathalyzer, such as accuracy, cost, and convenience.

Breathalyzer Buy Guide: Accuracy

The heart of any breathalyzer lies in its ability to measure the BAC level accurately. Individuals depend on the accuracy to make informed decisions, especially when it comes to driving. Hence, it is crucial to buy a breathalyzer that produces dependable results. To help ensure reliability, individuals can purchase from reputable brands. They may also select products that have certification from regulatory bodies.

Personal breathalyzers use two standard sensors: the semiconductor and fuel cell sensors. The quality of a breath test depends on the kind of sensor used. Many BACtrack personal breathalyzers use advanced fuel cell sensors and fine-tuned algorithms to estimate the BAC accurately. These are the same sensors you would find in the device of a law enforcement officer. They provide more consistent outcomes and require less calibration compared to semiconductor breathalyzers.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to ensure the device undergoes calibration when needed. Otherwise, the device may produce inaccurate results as time goes on. It is ideal to purchase from retailers that also offer recalibration services. Individuals may view reviews before purchasing to help them decide. Reading reviews from previous buyers can provide insight into the accuracy of the device.

The Types of Sensors

• Semiconductor sensors use a tin oxide compound to measure the alcohol in the breath samples. These create an electric current upon contact with ethanol that corresponds to the breath alcohol content. However, various external factors can impede the results. This includes the atmosphere, temperature, and liquor vapours.
• Fuel cell sensors use platinum electrodes to oxidise the alcohol in the breath sample and produce acetic acid, protons, and electrons. Similarly to semiconductors, they also create electric currents that correspond to the ethanol in the specimen. However, this sensor only forms reactions to ethanol. This makes them more accurate the semiconductors.

Breathalyzer Buy Guide: Cost

Breathalyzers are investment-worthy devices that can protect and save people from accidents. The cost to buy a  breathalyzer mainly depends on the type of sensors used, but additional features also contribute to the cost. The stand price range of breathalyzers is $60 to $300. Generally, fuel cell breathalyzers are more expensive than semiconductor ones.

Entry-level breathalyzers are typically within $60 to $100. These tend to offer basic capabilities but they can still provide accurate readings. Meanwhile, mid-range units may cost between $100 to $200. These can offer features such as smartphone connectivity or larger displays for ease of use. Lastly, premium breathalyzers may cost $200 and above. Devices of this level may provide functions like GPS tracking.

It is important to assess the needs of the individual using the device. Some may prefer more compact devices that are easy to carry around. On the other hand, some may prioritise accuracy and other features. Many devices suit various budgets. People can compare the prices of breathalyzer models across different retailers.

Where to Purchase

People may buy a personal breathalyzer online or in physical stores. There are many models available in the market for individuals to select. When buying online, individuals may check if an online platform sells breath-testing devices. They may also directly purchase from the manufacturers of the devices they are interested in. Many offer various discounts that make them cheaper than physical stores.

For physical stores, they may go to pharmacies, supermarkets, or department stores. They may browse the aisles or ask for help from staff. These staff may also provide recommendations or answer questions regarding the product. A benefit of buying from physical stores is that individuals can immediately use them after buying.

Breathalyzer Buy Guide: Convenience

People who are looking to buy a breathalyzer should ensure the device is easy to use. Breathalyzers are portable devices that increase the efficiency of alcohol testing. They are easy to operate and provide results within minutes. These are crucial since many will seek to operate these devices while intoxicated. In particular, devices that have a one-touch operation, like BACtrack breathalyzers, are helpful for many people.

Furthermore, features like Bluetooth connectivity can make the experience of using a breathalyzer more convenient. Some offer smartphone applications that can also help the user compile reports of their previous results. This information may come in handy when assessing their liquor consumption habits and patterns. This data can help those with Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD).

The portability of the device is also an essential factor to consider. Many use keychain breathalyzers since they are easy to carry around. However, some may value devices with easy-to-read large LCDs. Overall, individuals must assess which features will benefit them most.

Conclusion

Choosing a breathalyzer to buy can be overwhelming at first. Fortunately, people can refer to breathalyzer buy guides to help them understand the factors they should consider before purchasing one. Firstly, the individual must ensure they buy an accurate and reliable device. They can gauge the accuracy and reliability by checking what sensor it has and reading reviews about it. Secondly, they should consider the cost and find a product within their budget. Lastly, they must select a convenient device that suits their needs.