Moisture tester for plastics – Measure the moisture content of walls and materials quickly and easily

With a moisture tester for plastics, the water content of material surfaces, such as masonry, concrete, screed or wood and other materials is measured. For a long time, moisture meters were only used by professional craftsmen, but nowadays more and more private individuals are creating these appliances.

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Moisture meters have a very useful job that should not be underestimated in terms of your own health. With the aid of a moisture meter, for example, the susceptibility to diseases can be greatly reduced.

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Use

A moisture detector is used, as the name implies, to accurately determine the moisture content of various materials, such as screed, concrete, wood, and other materials.

If the room air is too humid, the excess water collects on furniture and masonry. If this condition persists for a long time, it can cause mold to form, negatively affecting not only the human respiratory tract but all of health. Even plants in the apartment or pets suffer from this condition.

A moisture detector can thus act as a mold measuring device and determine the moisture content of the air or the percentage of the water content of material surfaces.

Moisture meters are used primarily in construction or renovation work, even in homes or houses with water rupture, a moisture meter is used to determine the effective wall moisture or wall moisture.

model types

Moisture meters are subdivided into 6 different types:

• Mechanical and analog moisture meters
• Digital moisture meters
• psychrometer
• Moisture Doctors and Indicators
• Dewpoint moisture meter
• Hair Moisture meter

Determination of moisture content

If you want to read and interpret the course of the humidity correctly, you must take the correct time. It is recommended to set up a schedule for this purpose. At least when a problem, extreme or strong fluctuations are suspected. For at least one week should be read once a morning and once in the evening at fixed times. For this purpose, the current value must be noted before and after all air-changing measures, such as heating, ventilating, showering or bathing, cooking and washing. Rain and sun also play a role, and not only outdoors. Only in this way can it be determined whether sufficient moisture escapes through the ventilation or the air is permanently too dry. And only then can appropriate countermeasures be taken. In the beginning, it does not do much to throw a quick glance at the moisture meter once a day – without knowing the influences behind it.

Interiors and apartments

An indoor air humidity that ensures well-being is between 40 and 60 percent. A pretty big span so. Very uncomfortable everything under 30 percent felt. Over 70 percent will be too wet for most people. But what is the real optimal value is very individual. However, a hygrometer can help find and hold it. However, adjusting a balance can increase well-being considerably. Determining the current humidity and its course is the first step. This should be noted several times daily values. And that over the period of at least one week. If the humidity is below or above the ideal range, the fluctuations should be counteracted.

With which measures that can work simply and fast, can be found in the connection. Whether the measures are effective can, in turn, be determined by the moisture meter. And if necessary, change the procedure. But miracles are not to be expected. After all, it is not just the ambient air that is present in the air humidity. Also, furniture, wallpaper, carpets, and all other home textiles have an influence. Therefore, each remedy should again be given a few day’s time.

humidity

If the humidity is over 70 percent, this can just be perceived as pleasant. Or already as stuffy. The remedy here can create the right combination of ventilation and heating. Warm air can absorb more moisture than cold.

Therefore, in any case, the warm heating air should be replaced with cool outside air. If, however, it is cooler inside than outside, only more moisture is carried in during ventilation. Even with rising costs should therefore not be saved too much with the heating.

• The humidity can also be lowered if:
• Directly after cooking, showering and bathing is aired sufficiently long
• Daily several times air blast for at least ten minutes
• On the airing in the rain is waived
• Laundry does not dry indoors

If these measures do not remedy the situation even after several days, the problem can usually be found in the masonry. First, however, all furniture and home textiles should be given the opportunity to dry off sufficiently. Because these, of course, absorb moisture from the air. If a dehumidifier does not improve, you should work with a humidity indicator. You may find previously unnoticed wet spots on the wall, behind which are hidden leaks. However, it can also be due to too many indoor plants, an aquarium or leaking windows.

Dry air

Especially in winter, the air is quite often abbreviated, while the heating is incessantly in use. This, in turn, can lead to low humidity. Especially if no additional moisture is carried into the room through cooking, showering, leafy plants or the like. Suitable measures here are the installation of a water bowl on the heater or alternatively the placement of a damp cloth. Indoor plants, aquariums, and indoor fountains can also slightly raise the humidity.

If this is not enough, you may want to dry the laundry in the room or use a plant sprayer for more water droplets in the air. A humidifier also serves the purpose. The long-term humidification of the air, however, takes some time. Because the air in the room was already too dry for a long time, that also applies to everything else in the respective room. If the water content of the air is increased, textiles, furniture, and walls literally “absorb” a certain amount of moisture from the air.

Moisture tester purchase criteria

Types of Moisture Meters: The meter type provides information on how the unit can be operated and how precisely it measures it. The type of measuring device also determines the area of ​​use and whether the device fulfills the desired purpose. Especially easy to use are digital humidity meters. These devices are very useful for both room temperature and moisture content measurements on surfaces.

It is particularly advantageous that these devices do not need to be calibrated and provide very accurate results in most cases. Just as well to use mechanical moisture meters or even psychrometers, these types are quite expensive and do not always ensure accurate measurements.

The material composition of moisture meters: It is recommended that the moisture meter is made of metal or high-quality plastic material. Above all, these materials have a long service life and are very stable in handling. Less suitable are moisture meters made of cheap plastic.

Often the devices are supplied with 4 button cells, which is very expensive to buy. Better are meters that are equipped with a 9 volt or 12-volt battery pack type AA or AAA, these batteries last forever and are also very cheap to buy. However, it should be remembered that moisture measurement devices with commercially available batteries are a lot heavier compared to models with cell batteries. If you do not mind the weight, you should definitely consult with a moisture meter with a battery pack.

The measured value display of humidity detectors: It is important to note that the measured values ​​are easy to read on the display, even from a distance. Higher quality devices are backlit and ensure that you can read the readings even in the dark or in low light conditions. Most digital moisture meters are equipped with an easy-to-read LC display. With analog knives, the display can be read, however, the readability in the fine classification is very difficult.

The Usability of Moisture testers: Operating a meter is in most cases very simple and self-explanatory. For most devices, it is only possible to turn the knife on and off. The more function-rich the moisture meter is, the more attention should be paid to good clarity. In principle, all controls should be large, so they are easier to operate.

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Especially people who want to use the moisture meter on construction and wear work gloves must be able to operate the moisture meter easily and quickly. Also, when buying, make sure that a detailed instruction manual is included with the meter. Additional information on measurement technology is also of great advantage.

Measurement settings and functions of moisture testers: Depending on the application area of ​​the instrument, you can select models with various different functions. For example, there are combined devices that are equipped with various additional functions. Often the time can be read or the device also acts as a thermometer. All of these values ​​should be readable at the same time or be changed by pressing a button. Moisture meters that offer multiple functions are, of course, much more expensive than devices that the only function.

If you want to use the moisture testers especially for house building or renovation work, you should rely on high-quality processed instruments with long service life. There are also wooden gauges, these are very appealing, but not very recommendable because they are forgiven over time.

The measuring accuracy of moisture meters: The results are given in moisture meters either in percent or digits. The more unitless numbers and percentages are displayed on the meter, the more accurate the results will be. In connection with the measuring accuracy, especially digital moisture meters or psychrometers are recommended.

The measuring operation of humidity Testors: Particularly favorable are analog measuring instruments for the temperature check, which manage completely without electricity. It is advantageous that these models can also be operated when the batteries are empty or no power is available. In addition, analog knives are very cheap in the long term. Analog room airflow meters are also recommended for mobile use. When deciding on a moisture detector powered by batteries, one should be aware of what kind of batteries are used.

As an orientation, the selection should focus on your own needs. In the case of the humidity measuring devices, care should also be taken that the measured values ​​are displayed both as a minimum value and as a maximum result. This functionality ensures greater accuracy of the device. Very handy are moisture meters whose display is illuminated.

The so-called hold function is also useful, especially if you want to realize measurement results on a particularly narrow, hard to reach the wall. Other useful functions and settings are the measurability of various different humidities, such as the surface and humidity or various storage locations for the moisture meter.

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FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about a Moisture tester 

What types of moisture tester are there?

In general, the following six categories are distinguished:

• mechanical and analog humidity meters
• digital humidity meter
• psychrometer
• Humidity detectors and indicators
• Dew point hygrometers
• Hair Moisture Tester
• The species gives an indication of where to use the different devices.

Which type of moisture tester is best for measuring the humidity of an RV?

Most of the equipment available at the hardware store is not very good at measuring the humidity of an RV. This is because most of them are base units, which are equipped with small tips and so can only measure the surface. If you want to do the measurement yourself, you should invest in a device that measures capacitively as they can measure in depth. Also, be sure to calibrate the device before using it.

Is it also possible to measure the moisture behind tiles or joints with a moisture tester?

You should be careful when buying the meter that it goes deep. Many models indicate this in the specifications and features. In addition, you should pay attention to the condition of the tiles. It is best to consult a specialist so that you can carry out the measurement correctly.

Is humidity tester suitable for GRP testing?

Not every device is suitable for the GFRP test. Inform yourself in advance about the different models and make sure you choose a device that meets your requirements.

Is it possible to measure the humidity of a boat with a moisture tester – for example, the Gelcoat?

The opinions differ in this area. Moisture is influenced by many factors; the composition of the water in which the boat was used, when it was last used, and where and how it is stored. Through an accurate visual inspection, damage can usually be better detected and discussed.

Is it possible to measure the humidity of tobacco or similar loose material with a moisture tester?

There are devices that can measure the humidity of tobacco, paper, and other materials. Again, you should inform yourself about the different models to find the right device for you.

Are there also combi devices that have other functions in addition to moisture testing? (Ie, can other measurements besides the humidity of different materials or room air be made?)

There are certainly measuring devices that can have several functions. However, if in doubt, you should purchase separate devices that are designed for the desired function. The measurement accuracy is then better guaranteed and you can rely on the results when used correctly. However, many moisture meters can be used for different materials or building materials. Inform yourself so well and decide according to your requirements.

Tips for product care of a moisture tester

A moisture meter can be used in many areas. It is therefore important that you inform yourself well in advance about the different ways of working. Choose a device that meets your needs and can analyze the materials or materials you need them for. Read the operating instructions carefully and carefully before using your personal moisture meter. And keep it safe after that, so you can access questions or problems. If a problem or even a malfunction occurs, keep away from repairing the device yourself. Leave this to a specialist who is familiar with moisture meters. Since most devices also have a warranty, you should fall back on them. This is not possible if you have tampered with the device yourself. Under no circumstances should you continue to use the device if you have found a defect. The result is unfortunately no longer guaranteed.

When using the device in use, make sure it is mounted correctly and do not drop it. This is how most damage to a moisture meter occurs. Store the device in a dry, clean place that is neither too cool nor too warm. Most devices are sold with a small storage case or bag. Stored in it, it is usually optimally protected and can thus be easily transported. Especially against moisture and dust accumulation, your moisture meter is so protected again. If dust or moisture has accumulated on the surface of the Moisture Tester due to unprotected storage, wipe it well with a dust-absorbent or water-absorbent cloth.

If any dirt or grime has settled on the surface, which is stubborn and can not be easily wiped off, try wiping it with a damp cloth. Never use abrasives or solvents to clean your moisture Tester. In case of doubt, a mild detergent may be used. But check with the manufacturer, if this is possible. Often, you will find model-specific instructions in the operating instructions that you should absolutely adhere to.

Sebastian

Sebastian was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Saad Mushtaq has contributed to many online publications including the PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Saad Mushtaq earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Saad Mushtaq follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.Thanks