7 Ways to Get the Most From Your BACtrack

Are you getting the most out of your BACtrack? Here are 7 ways to maximize the value of your breathalyzer.

1. Review the user manual

If you haven't done so already, this is a great place to begin. There's lots of important information packed into those small booklets.

2. Wait 15 minutes after drinking to test

This is probably the most important rule for accurate results. Depending on your metabolism, it may take 15 minutes for alcohol to be absorbed into your bloodstream. Until then, the breathalyzer cannot give an accurate BAC estimate. Also, after a drink, the air in your mouth and throat is laden with alcohol — testing immediately yields a very high but very inaccurate reading.

3. Test yourself every time you drink

The more you test, the more aware you become of how alcohol affects your body. With smartphone-connected BACtracks using "Guess Your BAC", your guesses naturally get closer to your actual BAC over time.

4. Encourage others to use your BACtrack

Pause, wait 15 minutes, test. Could a loved one use that moment of clarity? Be the responsible one — pop on a fresh mouthpiece and offer.

5. Use your BACtrack at least once a month

If unused for 3+ weeks, the sensor may begin to dry out. Run a quick test every few weeks even if not drinking — the moisture in your breath keeps the sensor performing optimally.

6. Get your BACtrack calibrated regularly

All alcohol testers need calibration, even police units. For Professional Grade BACtracks (S80, Trace, Mobile), send for calibration about once a year. Non-professional units (BACtrack Go) with MicroCheck® Sensors should be calibrated about every 8 months.

7. Keep your BACtrack App up to date

We constantly refine and improve the app. If you experience any issues with the smartphone breathalyzer, app updates are the first place to check.