Fuel cell sensors use platinum electrodes with an electrolyte material between them. As ethyl alcohol passes through the sensor the platinum oxidizes it into acetic acid. This generates a current to give your breathalyser reading.

Semiconductor sensors carry out an internal reaction of ethyl alcohol into acetic acid and water which generates a electric current for your breathalyser reading. However, other substances can mimic acetic acid causing skewed results in semiconductor sensors.

Fuel cell sensors are used by law enforcement as they are more accurate and hold calibration longer then semiconductor sensors.

Semiconductor sensors are good for testing the presence of alcohol, but fuel cell sensors are definately more precise for accuracy.

Mouthwash contains ethanol which is detected by breath alcohol sensors - it is a type of alcohol. This alcohol dissipates in the mouth relatively quickly. Per our instructions, it is imperative to not consume anything for 10-15 minutes before testing in case food or drink contains a small amount of alcohol. If you are actually drinking alcohol please remember to wait the full 20 minutes before testing to ensure all mouth alcohol is gone.

We don't recommend driving with ANY amount of alcohol in your system. Your alcohol level can continue to increase for up to 2 hours after you finish drinking because the alcohol in your stomach is still being absorbed into your blood stream. So it is possible for your alcohol level to increase after testing. We recommend you test your self at the 20 minute mark, then wait another 10 minutes and test your self again. You will then be able to determine if your alcohol level is decreasing or increasing.

20 minutes.  If you don't wait 20 minutes then you wont get an accurate reading. It takes 15-20 minutes for alcohol to be absorbed from your stomach to your blood and then comes out in your breath. Also the sensor will be unnecessarily saturated with alcohol vapour, resulting in recalibration (and sensor cleaning) being required earlier than scheduled.

Additionally, within the first 15-20 minutes you still have alcohol residue in your mouth which can make the readings much higher.

Most people will record a low to mid level %BAC, but it is possible for a zero reading to be registered, as on average, a person will eliminate one standard drink of alcohol every hour.  Factors listed above may also speed up the body's processing of alcohol.  
 

It is possible for 2 people to record differing %BAC even when they consume exactly the same amount of alcohol. Factors that may impact on this include gender, weight, metabolism, age, medications and whether food has been consumed.  Using an AlcoLimit Breathalyser to measure your %BAC will allow you to make informed choices for your body type.

All AlcoLimit Breathalyser models use Alkaline batteries (either AA or AAA). These are included with your initial purchase of the breathalyser.  Always use a high quality brand (eg. Duracell) 1.5v Alkaline battery to get the optimum performance from your breathalyser. Some rechargeable batteries may work but they have various voltages. Rechargeable batteries with 2450 mAh should work fine.

When you first turn your breathalyser on, the countdown indicates the unit is warming the sensor up to  approximately the same temperature as your breath (34 degrees).  This ensures a more accurate measurement of your %BAC.  If the unit has recently been used this may occur faster for subsequent readings. If the countdown becomes excruciatingly slow, return it for recalibration because this indicates there is alcohol residue build up on the sensor.

Some common ERROR messages that may appear on your breathalyser are:
BAT battery warning - replace batteries
SEN or ER4  sensor warning - return to AlcoLimit for servicing/recalibration
FLO  flow error - turn unit on again and ensure you blow a firm consistent breath directly into the mouthpiece until you hear a double beep or click (depending on the model)
Please refer to your instruction manual for further possible error messages.

To ensure quality control, all recalibrations and servicing are performed at AlcoLimit Breathalysers head office and service centre in Sydney.  We only use calibrated specialised testing equipment and standardised comparison alcohol fluids to ensure the highest level of accuracy and precision in the recalibration of your AlcoLimit Breathalyser.

Our service centre performs recalibration on all of our models and has a fast turn-around of approximately 2 days.
Several of our models have SRS (self-replaceable sensor) technology. This means you can order a pre-calibrated sensor and replace the sensor yourself.  Its quick and easy, and has a simple easy to follow instruction sheet.

To keep your breathalyser in top working order, it should be recalibrated every 200 uses or 12 monthly (whichever comes first) for personal use.  Even if you only use your breathalyser a few times a year, its accuracy may start to drift after 12 months.

Please check the specifications for your breathalyser - our newer Fuell Cell models can test up to 1000 times before calibration is due.

Yes, all parts can be replaced. Contact our Service centre on 1300 667 661 and speak to a technician for further advice. Many small parts will be replaced free of charge or for a minimal fee to cover our costs.

The mouthpieces we sell are a bit longer and sit tighter in your breathalyser, providing a more accurate flow level. Our customised mouthpieces are more hygienic and don’t fall out while in use.

No you can’t. The sensors for all of these different breathalysers are uniquely designed and calibrated especially for each unit at the time you order your sensor.

No you can’t, but you can order a pre-calibrated sensor to install yourself for the models with SRS technology. Other models have to be sent to our service department for recalibration. See our Servicing page for further explanation.

This occurs when the batteries are carbon batteries which do not give enough power to the unit. Only Alkaline batteries must be used which have 1.5v power.

You may register a reading after brushing your teeth or using mouthwash because many toothpastes and mouthwashs are alcohol based, especially Listerine. Always wait at least 10 mins after consuming ANYTHING including food or cigarette smoke before using your breathalyser.

$30 to $85 for personal use models.

Check our Servicing page to see how much your model costs (recalibration fees include return express postage)

Yes.  Mouthpieces are available in packs of 10, 50 or 250. These are available through our website (click here) or in selected retail shops. Next time you send your breathalyser in for its recalibration, order some extra mouthpieces so you always have clean ones on hand.

To make paying easy you have the following payment options:

1) Pay with credit card over the phone on 1300 667 661

2) Pay with credit card via our Paypal link
3) Pay via EFT (please request an invoice and our bank details are at the bottom)

4) Enclose a money order with your breathalyser