How Do You Repair A Mercury Thermometer?
If the column of mercury (or other indicating fluid) in a thermometer separates, the void will render the indicated temperature inaccurate. Here are some ways to remove the void in the column. Please read all the steps before attempting this. • Inspect the thermometer for damage. Do not use if cracked or damaged in any way and dispose of properly (see warnings). • Note the temperature indicated. • Cooling Method. Place the thermometer in a refrigerator or ideally, a freezer. This may be the easiest way to restore the column. If cold enough, it should send the mercury (or other indicating fluid) to the bulb with little else to do. See the next steps if a refrigerator or freezer is not available or did not work. This method has varied results. • Shake Method. Firmly grasp the thermometer near the top, so that the bulb containing the mercury (or other indicating fluid) is pointed downward. Rapidly move the the thermometer down and sharply reverse direction (and snap the wrist upward) when
• Inspect the thermometer for damage. Do not use if cracked or damaged in any way and dispose of properly (see warnings). • Note the temperature indicated. • Cooling Method. Place the thermometer in a refrigerator or ideally, a freezer. This may be the easiest way to restore the column. If cold enough, it should send the mercury (or other indicating fluid) to the bulb with little else to do. See the next steps if a refrigerator or freezer is not available or did not work. This method has varied results. • Shake Method. Firmly grasp the thermometer near the top, so that the bulb containing the mercury (or other indicating fluid) is pointed downward. Rapidly move the the thermometer down and sharply reverse direction (and snap the wrist upward) when the thermometer reaches the lowest point of the stroke several times. Recheck the indicated temperature. If the indicated temperature has been reduced from the last time checked, continue shaking the thermometer downward. It will likely requi
