CRITICAL FLAW ALERT!
This meter exhibits a critical flaw—namely its very low score for accuracy. We deducted one star from our overall rating to reflect this critical flaw.
The Delmhorst Accuscan is a pinless meter using an analog readout. Its ability to test for moisture in many types of building materials makes it somewhat versatile. However, when we tested this meter for accuracy, the results were disappointing.
It can check for moisture up to ¾ inch deep in woods, concrete, sheetrock, EIFS, and other building materials. However, a significant drawback is the likelihood of obtaining less accurate measurements, compared to other pinless meters that we tested.
Pros
- Designed to scan for moisture levels in a variety of materials.
- Built-in auto calibration and battery check.
- Easy-to-use manual with excellent documentation.
Cons
- Less accurate in measuring moisture content than other meters we tested.
- Surface moisture interferes significantly with moisture readings.
- Wood scale does not include species adjustment for specific gravity.
- No HOLD function for use in tight spaces.
Objective Evaluation – Overall Score 4.1 out of 5.0
Accuracy – 2.6 out of 5.0
The readings for this meter were largely inaccurate from 7% through 25% MC when compared to ASTM D-4442 oven dry measurements.
Learn about our accuracy test procedures
Surface Moisture – 1.0 out of 5.0
The Delmhorst Accuscan showed extremely inflated readings in surface moisture, which indicates that operating this meter in high humidity environments, where condensation may form on the surface, could lead to questionable readings.
Learn about our surface moisture test procedures
Meter Temperature – 5.0 out of 5.0
Meter temperature had almost no effect on this meter’s readings.
A low meter temperature of 34.8° F in the presence of low and high MC had no effect on readings when compared to a room temperature of 70.5° F.
A high meter temperature of 110° F in the presence of low MC also had no effect on readings when compared to room temperature. In the presence of high MC, the reading showed only 1% difference from the room temperature reading.
Learn about our meter temperature test procedures
Wood Temperature – 5.0 out of 5.0
Wood temperature had a small effect on this meter’s readings, primarily in the high MC range.
A low wood temperature in the presence of low MC had no effect on the reading when compared to room temperature. In the presence of high MC, the reading decreased by 2%.
A high wood temperature in the presence of low MC saw no change in the reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading increased by 2%.
Learn about our wood temperature test procedures
Reading Repeatability – 5.0 out of 5.0
The Accuscan’s meter readings were highly repeatable.
Learn about our repeatability testing procedures
Drift Test – 5.0 out of 5.0
The Delmhorst Accuscan did not drift after 3 seconds.
Cable Interference – NA
Given that the Delmhorst Accuscan is pinless, it could not be tested for cable interference.
Learn about our cable interference and drift testing procedures
Subjective Evaluation – Overall Score 3.8 out of 5.0
Learn about our subjective testing procedures
Ease of Use – 3.8 out of 5.0
This meter is relatively easy to use and requires minimal use of the manual to get started. Manual documentation is exceptional and is very clear and easy to understand. Before taking readings, the manual says to hold the meter away from any object when selecting either the Reference Scale or Wood Scale, and then wait for the LED to stop blinking. As a result, this meter is a bit more time consuming to use than other pinless meters.
Quality – 5.0 out of 5.0
Includes a hard case that protects the meter in transport. Solid and durable, this meter appears unlikely to malfunction or break with normal use.
Comfort – 2.0 out of 5.0
Bulky, uncomfortable to hold, with a box-like shape. Lacks decent design ergonomics.
Versatility – 2.0 out of 5.0
This is a single mode meter (pinless), which is standard. The wood scale is set for Douglas fir and is not adjustable for the specific gravity of other wood species. Manual provides no indication about whether species adjustments can be made by hand using a table. The Accuscan measures moisture levels up to a depth of ¾ inch in wood, and can be used for comparative readings on a variety of other building materials including concrete, dry wall, and EIFS.
Note: Our accuracy tests were only for various species of wood. We did not assess the accuracy of this meter for use with other materials.
Range – 3.7 out of 5.0
The Accuscan measures moisture content from 6% to 40% moisture content but does not reach down to 5%. Readings above 28% may not indicate actual moisture content.
Features – 2.5 out of 5.0
Readings are precise to the nearest 1%. Low battery indicator present. Built-in calibration check. No HOLD function for use in tight spaces.
Customer Service – 4.5 out of 5.0
Delmhorst offers both an automated Product Support response and a live representative. The automated response was informative and professional. The live representative did not seem particularly knowledgeable about the product and lacked a professional demeanor. Response time is prompt both for email and telephone inquiries.
Delmhorst offers a one-year warranty on all of its meters and has its own service center for repairs. Manual available online.
Our review is based on Moisture Meter Experts independent evaluation of the meter, which was purchased by Moisture Meter Experts or provided free of charge by the manufacturer. By purchasing this meter through the links above, Moisture Meter Experts may be compensated either by your purchase directly from Moisture Meter Experts or from commissions from an affiliate. View our Review Procedures section to learn more about our proprietary evaluation procedure and expertise in the field of moisture meters.