Why and When to Calibrate Your Breathalyzer
Why You Need to Calibrate Your Breathalyzer
Every breathalyzer, whether consumer or police-grade, uses a sensor with a finite useful life. These sensors "drift" over time — readings gradually deviate from reality. Calibration restores the device to factory accuracy.
Why sensors drift
Fuel cell sensors (S80, Mobile, C8, C6): wear from use; the internal electrolyte slowly degrades — especially with frequent high-BAC tests.
Semiconductor sensors (Go): tend to drift faster, especially with exposure to heat or humidity.
The consequence: an uncalibrated unit can read high (you think you're more drunk than you are) or low (much more dangerous — you might drive while actually over the limit).
How often to calibrate
| Model | Recommended cadence |
|---|---|
| BACtrack S80, Mobile (Pro Grade) | Every 12 months or 1,500 tests |
| BACtrack C8, C6 (BluFire fuel cell) | Every 12 months |
| BACtrack Go (semiconductor) | Every 6–8 months |
Calibrate immediately if:
- Inconsistent readings (0.05 then 0.12 on consecutive blows)
- No result or error displayed
- Unusually high or low values
- Unused for 4–5+ weeks (sensor may have dried)
Tips between calibrations
- Test monthly even if not drinking — the moisture keeps the sensor lively.
- Wait 15 minutes after drinking before testing.
- Store at room temperature — never in a parked car in the sun.
- Replace mouthpieces when dirty.
- Use a fresh mouthpiece for each new tester — hygiene and accuracy.
Where to calibrate
BACtrack Thailand offers official calibration in-country:
- Pro Grade (S80, Mobile): ฿875 per unit
- Standard (C8, C6, Go): ฿675 per unit
Turnaround: 10–14 business days (round-trip shipping included).
Contact LINE @codustry or sales@codustry.com to send your unit in.
Bottom line
Calibration isn't optional — it's how your device keeps professional-grade accuracy. A small annual investment beats getting a critical reading wrong.