Why Vending Machine Breathalyzers Won’t Work in Bars

Having a breathalyzer in bars or night clubs in theory seems helpful. Patrons can, for fun, test their breath alcohol concentration level (BrAC) to see how much alcohol they’ve consumed after inserting a few quarters.

But how accurate are they?

How Vending Machine Breathalyzers Work

Vending machine breathalyzers are pretty simple. Most work like this: After inserting some change, you place a straw into the machine and blow into the straw for a few seconds. The breathalyzer will then read your BrAC (breath alcohol) level, which is similar to your BAC (blood alcohol concentration) level, a more familiar acronym to the public.

Although simple to use, vending machine breathalyzers are not the most accurate alcohol testing device. Why? Because the technology in vending machine breathalyzers are simple as well.

The Accuracy of Vending Machine Breathalyzers

Vending machine breathalyzers are solely for entertainment and education. It is a helpful tool for self-monitoring, and possibly making a good decision. But they will not prevent someone from getting behind the wheel drunk and attempting to drive.

Even if you use a vending machine breathalyzer and have a BrAC level that’s below .08, the legal limit in all states, you can still get pulled over by law enforcement for reckless driving and arrested. The vending machine breathalyzer creates a false sense of confidence. Patrons may believe they can drive after having a few drinks at the bar because they had a BrAC level below the legal limit rather than making the right choice and designating a sober driver or using a ridesharing app.

Police-grade personal breath testers (PBTs) and Ignition Interlocks are other alcohol testing devices. The difference between these devices and vending machine breathalyzers is PBTs and Ignition Interlocks have fuel cell sensors. Fuel cells are alcohol-specific. These sensors are the most accurate technology to date that evaluates a person’s BrAC level which correlates to an accurate BAC.

Law enforcement uses PBTs for roadside tests, and courts or state offices order Ignition Interlocks for DUI offenders because these devices are accurate and certified and tested. Even the public, such as parents of teenage drivers, will lease an Ignition Interlock voluntarily for peace of mind when teenagers get behind the wheel. If the user can’t pass the Ignition Interlock’s initial breath test, the user’s vehicle will not start. The Ignition Interlock is a fool-proof way to prevent drinking and driving.

Ignition Interlocks: The Only Reliable Breathalyzers to Prevent Drinking and Driving

If you need to use an Ignition Interlock, you are getting back on the road with a reliable, accurate device. There are federal and state-specific guidelines for its functionality, so you aren’t using just any breathalyzer off the market.

If you want to test yourself before getting behind the wheel, an Ignition Interlock is the best technology that will reveal whether you are too intoxicated by alcohol to drive.

Voluntary Ignition Interlock programs by Smart Start are simple. If you want to make sure you are OK to drive after consuming alcohol, an Ignition Interlock is the most affordable and reliable option.

Need an Ignition Interlock?

Whether you need to, or voluntarily want to, install an Ignition Interlock, Smart Start’s here for you. Our Ignition Interlock is discreet and easy to use. We also provide our clients an inexpensive program and 24/7/365 customer service standing by to assist you. Schedule your installation appointment by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.