How Does Temperature Affect the Accuracy of Meter Readings?
After moisture content and a moisture gradient, if one exists, wood temperature is the most important factor affecting the accuracy of your readings. As wood temperature increases its electrical resistance decreases and indicated moisture content rises. The lower the temperature, the lower the indicated moisture content. Depending on the temperature and moisture content, you may have to make a correction. Delmhorst meters are calibrated at 70° F (20° C). In field use, no correction is necessary if the wood temperature is between 50° F and 90° F. If the temperature correction is not built in the meter, use the slide rule or chart we supply with each meter. The temperature of the wood does not affect pin-less type meters, unless the lumber is frozen.
