“After sending in two breathalyzers for calibration (3 and 4 years old), I was told that neither worked and were out of warranty. Seems like they should last longer than that.”
“Just got it and all well except it wasn't apparent how to turn it off and, incredibly, the manual doesn't address this. It should have an OFF button. Also, battery compartment door doesn't seat easily or well.”
“I bought the BACtrack S80 Professional Breathalyzer 4 years ago. The recommended calibration time is every year. Mine lasted almost 3 years before I started to notice the readings being off. They also don't recommend storing the device in cold temperatures (below freezing), but I kept it in my car (like most people probably will) over the cold Midwest USA winters. Although they don't recommend the cold temperature storage, it seems to still hold up well. You'll definitely want to warm the breathalyzer up in your hand for a while before turning it on if it's cold (just like you don't want to turn on a super cold laptop) or else it may be hard to read the display.
I sent the S80 breathalyzer in to be re-calibrated after 3 years for $25 ($30 if you count shipping). It took roughly a week or so to calibrate and get it back, and now it works great again, just like the day I got it.
Keeping the device in the case they provided with the breathalyzer keeps it in great shape. I don't have any dings or scratches on the device, but then again, I don't think I've ever dropped it on the ground. I take the 2 AA batteries out of the breathalyzer every time after I am finished using it, and put them in the pocket of the case they provide. Regular batteries seem to last quite a while (1 year or more) doing this, so I don't think the device uses a whole lot of energy. I would recommend you always have a backup set of batteries with you though, just in case.”
“If you buy one of their products you better read the manual and follow the instructions to a T. Do not leave it in your car even thought that is the place you are most likely to use it. This will void your warranty. Every six months you must return it for recalibration. If you don't this will void your warranty. So a $100 device will end
up costing you $150 dollars after the first year, $200 after the second year, $250 after the third year and so on. It's probably best to just get a handle on your drinking or rely on a designated driver.”
